This common belief is actually a myth. The truth is, the oceans are the real heroes of oxygen production. They produce about 70% of the Earth's oxygen.
Why the Myth?
The Amazon rainforest is a vast and lush ecosystem, so it's easy to assume that it must produce a lot of oxygen. However, the rainforest's dense canopy and high humidity limit sunlight penetration. This means that the rate of photosynthesis, the process by which plants produce oxygen, is lower in the rainforest than in other ecosystems.
The Real Oxygen Producers
The oceans are teeming with microscopic organisms called phytoplankton. These tiny algae use sunlight to photosynthesize, releasing oxygen as a byproduct. Phytoplankton are responsible for about 50% of the world's oxygen production.
Other Contributors
While the Amazon rainforest does not produce as much oxygen as the oceans, it still plays an important role in the Earth's oxygen balance. The rainforest absorbs carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, which helps to regulate oxygen levels.
Conclusion
The Amazon rainforest is a vital part of the Earth's ecosystem, but it is not the primary source of oxygen. The oceans are the real heroes of oxygen production. It is important to recognize the interconnectedness of all ecosystems and the complex interplay that maintains the delicate balance of the Earth's life-sustaining systems.
WORDLIST:
common belief – распространённое мнение
oxygen – кислород
vast – обширный
lush ecosystem – пышная экосистема
assume – предполагать
dense canopy – густой полог
humidity – влажность
sunlight penetration – проникновение солнечного света
rate – скорость
are teeming with – кишат
tiny algae – крошечные водоросли
byproduct – побочный продукт
carbon dioxide – углекислый газ
vital – жизненно важный
primary source – основной источник
interconnectedness – взаимосвязанность
life-sustaining systems – системы жизнеобеспечения
QUESTIONS:
What is the common belief about the Amazon rainforest's oxygen production?
Is this belief true?
What is the primary source of oxygen on Earth?
What percentage of the world's oxygen is produced by phytoplankton?
What percentage of the world's oxygen is produced by the oceans?
Why is the rate of photosynthesis lower in the Amazon rainforest compared to other ecosystems?
How does the Amazon rainforest contribute to the Earth's oxygen balance?