More on photosynthesis

Nota:

• He placed a burning candle in a sealed container and observed that the flame went out after a short time and the candle couldn't be re-lit while in the container. He placed a living plant in the container, The flame went out after a short time, but after a few weeks the candle could be re-lit.

1. Not enough light slows down the rate of photosynthesis

   Nota:

   • Light provides the energy needed for photosynthesis. If the light level is raised, the rate of photosynthesis will increase nut only to a certain point. Beyond that, it won't make any difference because then it'll be either the temperature or the CO2 level which is now the limiting factor.
2. Too little carbon dioxide slows it down

   Nota:

   • As with light intensity, the amount of co2 will only increase the rate of photosynthesis up to a point. After this it is no longer the limiting factor. 
3. The temperature has to be just right

   Nota:

   • As the temperature increases, so does the rate of photosynthesis. But if the temperature is too high, the plants enzymes will be denatured so the rate rapidly decreases. This happens at about 45 degrees Celsius. Usually though, if the temperature is the limiting factor it's because it's too low.