An early consequence of the release of oxygen gas by plant and bacterial photosynthesis was to 17) A) cause iron in ocean water and terrestrial rocks to rust (oxidize). B) prevent the formation of an ozone layer. C) make life on land difficult for aerobic organisms. D) change the atmosphere from oxidizing to reducing. E) make it easier to maintain reduced molecules.

The correct answer is option A) "cause iron in ocean water and terrestrial rocks to rust (oxidize)".

Explanation:

During ancient times, the reproduction success of plants and cyanobacterias led to the accumulation of oxygen gas in the atmosphere. One early consequence of this accumulation was the oxidation of the iron in ocean water and terrestrial rocks. This phenomenon is the cause of banded iron formations, which formed in seawater and sank to the ocean bed.