The Rate of Photosynthesis

• What is the main energy source for photosynthesis?

  Light
• How does increasing light level affect the rate of photosynthesis?

  The rate of photosynthesis increases as the light level is raised
• What happens to the rate of photosynthesis beyond a certain light level?

  It becomes a limiting factor
• How can you investigate light intensity in a lab setting?

  By moving the lamp closer to or further away from the plant
• What is necessary to create an accurate graph of the rate of photosynthesis against lamp distance?

  You need to measure light intensity at the plant using a light meter or perform calculations with your results
• What are the steps to create a graph of the rate of photosynthesis based on light intensity?

  • Measure light intensity at the plant using a light meter
  • Alternatively, perform calculations based on the distance of the lamp
  • Plot the rate of photosynthesis against the measured light intensity
• What is the relationship between the distance of the lamp and light intensity?

  Light intensity decreases as the distance from the lamp increases