What is the primary gas produced during photosynthesis?

Photosynthesis is the process by which green plants, algae, and some bacteria convert light energy into chemical energy, using carbon dioxide and water as raw materials. In this process, chlorophyll captures sunlight, which drives the conversion of carbon dioxide and water into glucose and oxygen. The overall reaction can be summarized by the equation:

6CO₂ + 6H₂O + light energy → C₆H₁₂O₆ + 6O₂.

This equation highlights that oxygen is a byproduct of photosynthesis. The oxygen produced in this reaction is released into the atmosphere, which is essential for the respiration of most living organisms. Thus, the primary gas produced during photosynthesis is indeed oxygen.