Limiting factor graphs

Not enough light slows down the rate of photosynthesis.
1. Light provides the energy for photosynthesis.
2. As the light level is raised, the rate of photosynthesis increases steadily - but only up to a certain point.
3. Beyond that point, it wont make any difference because then it will either be temperature or the level of carbon dioxide which is the limiting factor.
4. Here is a graph showing the rate of photosynthesis against the light intensity - Light is the limiting factor.
Too little carbon dioxide also slows down the rate of photosynthesis.
1. Carbon dioxide is one of the raw materials needed for photosynthesis.
2. As with light intensity the amount of carbon dioxide will only increase the rate of photosynthesis up to a point.
  1. After the graph flattens showing that carbon dioxide levels are no longer the limiting factor.
3. As long as light and carbon dioxide levels are in plentiful supply then the factor limiting photosynthesis must be temperature.
4. Here is a graph showing the rate of photosynthesis against the amount of carbon dioxide - amount of carbon dioxide is the limiting factor.

Resource summary

	Created by jessica-gollop about 11 years ago