Problem 16 - Objective Biology for NEET

Question

Which of the following proved that green part could release \(\mathrm{O}_{2}\) by his experiment on an acquatic plant? (a) Jan Ingenhousz (b) Joseph Priestley (c) Von Sachs (d) Cornelius Van Niel

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

The correct answer is (a) Jan Ingenhousz.

Step 1: Identify the event

Identify the event being referred to in the question. The release of \( \mathrm{O}_{2} \) from the green part of an aquatic plant suggests an experiment related to photosynthesis.

Step 2: Recognize the contributors

Review the scientific contributions of each named individual to this field. Recall or determine through research what each one is best known for in relation to photosynthesis.

Step 3: Match the contributor to the event

After reviewing the experiment and the works of each contributor, match the details to the correct scientist. In this case, Jan Ingenhousz is known for the experiment that showed that the green parts of plants release \( \mathrm{O}_{2} \). None of the other options are specifically noted for this discovery.

Key Concepts

Jan Ingenhousz

Jan Ingenhousz was a pioneering scientist who made a significant discovery in the field of plant physiology. He is best known for his groundbreaking work in proving that plants use sunlight to convert carbon dioxide and water into food, releasing oxygen in the process. Ingenhousz conducted a famous experiment with aquatic plants under different light conditions. His experiments were pivotal because they confirmed that sunlight is essential for the photosynthesis process.
Ingenhousz's work was published in 1779, and it elaborated on how the green parts of plants specifically release oxygen. This was a significant leap forward from Joseph Priestley's earlier observations that plants can cleanse the air. Jan Ingenhousz took this understanding further by showing that the process of photosynthesis, particularly in the green parts of plants, is what contributes to oxygen production.

Oxygen release in plants

The process by which green plants release oxygen is fundamental to photosynthesis. During this process, plants absorb carbon dioxide from the air and water from the soil, using the energy from sunlight.

• This happens in the green parts of the plant, primarily the leaves, which contain chlorophyll.
• Chlorophyll helps absorb sunlight to drive the photosynthetic reactions.

Through these reactions, plants convert the absorbed carbon dioxide and water into glucose, which they use for energy and growth.
Oxygen is a by-product of this transformation. It is released into the atmosphere, helping to sustain life on Earth. This essential role of plants illustrates the importance of preserving green ecosystems, as they are indispensable for oxygenating the air and providing life-supporting services.

Aquatic plant experiments

Aquatic plants serve as excellent subjects for experiments on photosynthesis due to their visible oxygen release in water. These experiments involve submerging aquatic plants such as Elodea or Hydrilla in water under a light source. Observing these plants reveals the photosynthetic process in action.

• As plants photosynthesize, they release oxygen bubbles which can be seen rising to the surface.
• The rate at which these bubbles form can vary based on light intensity and other environmental conditions.

These experiments conduct a visual proof of photosynthesis and allow for a better understanding of oxygen release by plants in real time. The simplicity of observing bubble formation helps students grasp the basic principles of photosynthesis, making it a favorite in educational settings.