Factors Affecting Photosynthesis

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FACTORS AFFECTING PHOTOSYNTHESIS BY: Ella Seño-Icalla 1.Light Intensity Low light intensity lowers the rate of photosynthesis. As the intensity is increased the rate also increases. However, after reaching an intensity of 10,000 lux (lux is the unit for measuring light intensity) there is no effect on the rate. Very high intensity may, in fact, slow down the rate as it bleaches the chlorophyll. Normal sunlight (usually with an intensity of about 100,000 lux) is quite sufficient for a normal rate of photosynthesis. 2. Carbon Dioxide Concentration Carbon dioxide concentration will directly affect the rate of photosynthesis as it is used in the photosynthesis reaction. In the atmosphere, the concentration of carbon dioxide ranges from .03 to .04 %. However, it is found that 0.1% of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere increases the rate of photosynthesis significantly. This is achieved in the greenhouses which are enclosed chambers where plants are grown under controlled conditions. The concentration is increased by installing gas burners which liberate carbon dioxide as the gas burns. Crops like tomatoes, lettuce are successfully grown in the greenhouses. These greenhouse crops are found to be bigger and better-yielding than their counterparts growing in natural conditions. The following graph shows how different concentrations affect the rate of photosynthesis. 3.Temperature An optimum temperature ranging from 25oC to 35oC is required for a good rate. At temperatures around 0oC the enzymes stop working and at very high temperatures the enzymes are denatured. Since both the stages of photosynthesis require enzyme activity, the temperature has an affect on the rate of photosynthesis. 4. Chlorophyll Concentration The concentration of chlorophyll affects the rate of reaction as they absorb the light energy without which the reactions cannot proceed.
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