Advanced Placement (AP) Biology Practice Exam

Disable ads (and more) with a membership for a one time $2.99 payment

Prepare for the AP Biology Exam with engaging quizzes. Test your knowledge with multiple-choice questions, complete with detailed explanations. Elevate your exam readiness!

Practice this question and more.

What is produced as a waste product during the process of photosynthesis?

Carbon Dioxide
Glucose
Nitrogen
Oxygen

The correct answer is: Oxygen

During the process of photosynthesis, oxygen is produced as a waste product. This occurs primarily in plants, algae, and certain bacteria which use sunlight to convert carbon dioxide and water into glucose and oxygen. The overall reaction can be summarized by the equation: 6CO₂ + 6H₂O + light energy → C₆H₁₂O₆ + 6O₂. In this process, while glucose is the main product and serves as an energy source for the organism, oxygen is generated as a byproduct. This oxygen is released into the atmosphere and is vital for the respiration of most living organisms, making photosynthesis critical to life on Earth.