Law of limiting factors and photosynthesis Flashcards
describe what is meant by the Law of Limiting Factors
A process eg: photosynthesis, will be limited if one of the inputs isn’t available. eg- light, water, temp, oxygen
if light levels are low, the process will be limited even though there could be plenty of carbon dioxide and a suitable temperature.
how does light intensity affect the rate of photosynthesis?
the rate of photosynthesis increases with a greater light intensity up to a certain point.
the rate eventually levels off (light saturation point)
why doesn’t photosynthesis take place in the dark or very low light levels?
the stomata close and carbon dioxide is not taken in.
what does high intensity light damage?
chlorophyll and chloroplasts-which also reduces the rate of photosynthesis.
how does the water supply affect the rate of photosynthesis?
a reduced water supply makes the stomata close (to reduce further loss) therefore limits the amount of carbon dioxide that can be taken up.
insufficient water caused leaves to wilt, reducing light interception which also reduces the rate of photosynthesis.
where does photosynthesis usually take place?
in the chloroplasts, mainly in the leaves
what does photosynthesis produce?
sugars (carbs)
where does a plant mainly use and store sugars (carbs)?
areas of active growth
stored in organs eg: tubers, bulbs, corms, seeds
what is food stored as?
starch-released when required.
What energy do plants use in photosynthesis?
Solar energy
describe the process of photosynthesis (what it uses)
carbon dioxide+water in the presence of chlorophyll+ sun + sugar and oxygen
what is the equation for photosynthesis?
6Co2 + 6H2O = +light energy in the presence of chlorophyll= C6 H12 06 (simple sugar) + 6o2 (oxygen waste
what is the waste product of photosynthesis?
sugar and oxygen
how does a plant obtain carbon dioxide
a plant takes it from the atmosphere through the stomata.
what is an essential element to the production of carbohydrates?
water-which is obtained by the roots
