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A student found an unusual plant species growing in the local park - VCE - SSCE Biology - Question 2 - 2023 - Paper 1
Question 2
A student found an unusual plant species growing in the local park. Without knowing what type of plants they were, the student undertook experiments to identify the ... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:A student found an unusual plant species growing in the local park - VCE - SSCE Biology - Question 2 - 2023 - Paper 1
Step 1
To which plant group (C3, C4 or CAM) would this unusual plant species most likely belong? Justify your answer.
Answer
The most likely type of plant is C4 as it shows high starch formation at 40 °C and at high humidity. C4 plants have adapted to thrive in conditions of high temperature and light intensity, making them well-suited for environments like those tested.
Step 2
Why does exposing the plants to green or blue light as opposed to white light affect the formation of starch? Justify your answer.
Answer
White light contains all wavelengths, including green and blue light. Green light is mostly reflected and does not contribute significantly to photosynthesis, while blue light is absorbed effectively. Since photosynthesis produces glucose which is then converted into starch, the absorption of blue light enhances starch formation compared to green light or when the plants are exposed to white light.