Question

In an experiment demonstrating the evolution of oxygen in Hydrilla, sodium bicarbonate is added to water in the experimental set-up. What would happen if all other conditions are favorable?

• A. The amount of oxygen evolved decreases as carbon dioxide in water is absorbed by sodium bicarbonate.
• B. The amount of oxygen evolved increases as the availability of carbon dioxide increases.
• C. The amount of oxygen decreases as the availability of carbon dioxide increases.
• D. The amount of oxygen evolved increases as carbon dioxide in water is absorbed by sodium bicarbonate.

Answer 1

The correct option is B The amount of oxygen evolved increases as the availability of carbon dioxide increases.

Hydrilla is an aquatic autotrophic plant. It synthesizes sugars from carbon dioxide and water in the presence of sunlight. If sodium bicarbonate is added to the water and conditions are favorable, more photosynthesis will occur and accordingly amount of oxygen evolved will be more because oxygen is a by-product of photosynthesis.

So the correct answer is option B.