GCSE Biology (AQA)

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Temperature & Photosynthesis

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Bioenergetics Photosynthesis

Temperature & Photosynthesis

2:09 Photosynthesis Rate and Temperature
Spec 4.4.1.2
Previous Graphs & Rates of Photosynthesis Next Light Intensity & Photosynthesis
  • Temperature impacts all chemical reactions, including photosynthesis.
  • Investigating the effect of temperature on photosynthesis can be done by counting oxygen bubbles released from pondweed at different temperatures.
  • The rate of photosynthesis can be measured by counting the oxygen bubbles released per minute while varying the water temperature in a water bath.
  • Photosynthesis is an endothermic reaction, so increasing temperature generally increases the rate of photosynthesis.
  • The relationship between temperature and photosynthesis rate can be represented graphically, showing an increase in rate up to around 40 degrees Celsius, after which the rate decreases.
  • The decrease in photosynthesis rate at high temperatures is due to the denaturation of enzymes within the plant.
  • Enzymes, which control photosynthesis, can become denatured (change shape and stop working) at high temperatures, preventing them from fitting with their substrate.
  • Understanding the role of enzymes in photosynthesis and their behavior at different temperatures helps in interpreting graphs that show the rate of photosynthesis and temperature as a limiting factor.

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