Question

In each of the following situations what happens to the rate of photosynthesis?

(a) Cloudy days

(b) No rainfall in the area

(c) Good manuring in the area

(d) Stomata get blocked due to dust

Answer 1

Photosynthesis:

1. Photosynthesis is the process through which plants turn carbon dioxide, water, and sunlight into oxygen and sugar-based energy.
2. Perhaps the most significant biological process that occurs on the planet is photosynthesis.
3. It has made the planet into the hospitable environment we know today by releasing oxygen and consuming carbon dioxide.

(a) Cloudy days:

1. In order to convert light energy into chemical energy that can be released through cellular respiration to power the organism's activities, plants and other living organisms use a process called photosynthesis.
2. Since photosynthesis depends on sunlight, it will proceed more slowly on cloudy days.
3. There will be less sunlight on an overcast day.
4. For photosynthesis, plants use their leaves to absorb light energy.
5. Using the energy of the sun, plants transform water and carbon dioxide into glucose, a sugar.
6. Glucose is used by plants as a fuel source and to make substances like cellulose and starch.

(b) No rainfall in the area:

1. Since water is one of the primary raw materials used by plants during photosynthesis, the rate of photosynthesis will drop if there is no local precipitation.
2. Less water will be available for planting if there is no rain in a given area.
3. Plants absorb water (H₂O) and carbon dioxide (CO₂) from the soil and atmosphere during photosynthesis.
4. During photosynthesis, plants take up water (H₂O) and carbon dioxide (CO₂) from the soil and atmosphere.
5. In the plant cell, carbon dioxide is reduced, which means it receives electrons, whereas water is oxidized, which means it loses electrons.

(c) Good manuring in the area:

1. Because plants use raw elements from the soil, such as N, P, Fe, and Mg, to develop their bodies, the rate of good manuring in the area will rise.
2. Increased amounts of these minerals in the soil due to effective manuring will boost photosynthesis.

(d) Stomata get blocked due to dust:

1. A plant's stomata enable it to absorb carbon dioxide, which is essential for photosynthesis.
2. They also help to prevent water loss by closing during hot or dry conditions.
3. Stomata resemble small mouths that open and close to help the body sweat.
4. Stomata are the openings via which CO₂ gas, necessary for photosynthesis, enters the leaves.
5. If they become clogged by dust, the rate will decrease.
6. Less CO₂ or no CO₂ would enter the leaf if the stomata become clogged by dust, which would result in a decrease in the rate of photosynthesis.