Question

Describe how each variable will alter the rate of photosynthesis and where specifically the process of photosynthesis will be affected.

1. You place a plant alone in a covered airtight container in the presence of sunlight. Assume that a watering system is provided within this container.

2. You place a plant alone in a dark closet. Assume the plant is watered daily and has access to normal air flow.

3. You place a plant under a light with a red light bulb. Assume the plant is watered daily.

4. You place a plant on a window sill with an appropriate exposure to light and carbon dioxide, however your little brother over waters the plant everyday.  

Answer 1

1. You place a plant alone in a covered airtight container in the presence of sunlight. Assume that a watering system is provided within this container. --> Plant will die due to the lack of carbon dioxide (necessary for the photosynthesis)

2. You place a plant alone in a dark closet. Assume the plant is watered daily and has access to normal air flow. ---> Plant will die, as the sunlight is not available (necessary for the photosynthesis)

3. You place a plant under a light with a red light bulb. Assume the plant is watered daily. ----> The plant survives and grows well

The visible light contains different wavelengths of light. Chlorophyll a is the primary pigment in the leaves that capture light for photosynthesis. This pigment absorbs blue light (have the short wavelength and high energy) and red light (long wavelength).

4. You place a plant on a window sill with an appropriate exposure to light and carbon dioxide, however your little brother over waters the plant every day. ----> Depends on the drainage system of the plant. If the excess water is drained out, the plant grows well. If the water remains in the plant container, the plant will die as the oxygen will not be available to the roots.