![](https://ichef.bbci.co.uk/images/ic/640x360/p017ykv5.jpg)
Bacteria and the development of an oxygen rich atmosphere
Professor Brian Cox explains how the Earth developed an oxygen rich atmosphere. The secret lies with an ancient group of organisms called cyanobacteria. Around 2.4 billion years ago, these bacteria evolved an incredible ability to produce their own food using photosynthetic pigments. A by-product of this process was oxygen, and the success of these pioneering organisms filled the atmosphere with oxygen. This transformed our planet and allowed the development of more complex life, like plants and animals.
Duration:
This clip is from
More clips from Episode 1
-
Symbiosis of photosynthetic algae and jellyfish
Duration: 04:40
-
Conservation of energy
Duration: 03:42
-
The origins of life on Earth
Duration: 03:15
-
How has life become so varied?
Duration: 07:08
More clips from Wonders of Life
-
Evolution of the senses—Learning Zone, Episode 2
Duration: 06:11
-
Evolution of sight—Learning Zone, Episode 2
Duration: 07:00
-
Size and gravity—Learning Zone, Episode 2
Duration: 10:20
-
Conservation of energy—Learning Zone, Episode 1
Duration: 03:42