What are the 3 main factors affecting the rate of photosynthesis?

Light - Increasing light intensity, increases the rate of photosynthesis up to a certain point. At this point, either temperature or CO2 level is the limiting factor. CO2 - Increasing CO2 level, increases the rate of photosynthesis up to a certain point. At this point, either light intensity or temperature is the limiting factor. Temperature - Too low a temperature limits the rate of photosynthesis because the enzymes required for photosynthesis work more slowly at lower temperatures. Too high a temperature also limits the rate of photosynthesis because the enzymes become damaged (denatured). Therefore, there is an optimum temperature at which the enzymes are working effectively without becoming denatured.

Answered by Emma R. Biology tutor

2879 Views

See similar Biology GCSE tutors

Related Biology GCSE answers

All answers ▸

What organelles do plant cells have that animal cells do not? Why do plant cells need these additional organelles?


What do you understand by gene cloning?


Explain why the contraction times of the atria and ventricles in the heart differ.


Explain the process of osmosis giving an example of why it is important for cell function.


We're here to help

contact us iconContact usWhatsapp logoMessage us on Whatsapptelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo
Cookie Preferences