Explain the term photosynthesis - Leaving Cert Biology - Question c - 2016
Question c
Explain the term photosynthesis.
The apparatus shown below may be used to investigate the effect of environmental factors on the rate of photosynthesis.
1. Name on... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Explain the term photosynthesis - Leaving Cert Biology - Question c - 2016
Step 1
Explain the term photosynthesis.
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Answer
Photosynthesis is the process by which plants manufacture their own food. This occurs in the presence of sunlight, carbon dioxide, and water, converting these raw materials into glucose and oxygen. The overall chemical reaction can be summarized as:
ightarrow C_6H_{12}O_6 + 6O_2$$
This process is crucial for the survival of plants and contributes significantly to the Earth's oxygen supply.
Step 2
1. Name one environmental factor that has an effect on the rate of photosynthesis.
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Answer
One environmental factor that affects the rate of photosynthesis is light intensity.
Step 3
2. How would you vary this factor?
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To vary the light intensity, you could change the distance of the light source from the plant. By moving the light source closer or further away, you can increase or decrease the intensity of light that the plant receives.
Step 4
3. How would you measure the rate of photosynthesis?
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The rate of photosynthesis can be measured by counting the number of oxygen bubbles produced by the plant within a specific time frame or by measuring the volume of oxygen collected over time. This can be done by using a submerged cut stem in the water, where the emitted oxygen can be observed.
Step 5
From your knowledge of photosynthesis, suggest two ways by which a gardener could artificially increase the yield of vegetables in a greenhouse.
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The gardener could increase the light intensity by using brighter lights or extending the duration of lighting periods.
Another method would be to increase the temperature in the greenhouse, as higher temperatures can accelerate photosynthesis, provided they remain within the plant's optimal range.
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