Photosynthesis Rate Calculations Flashcards

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In simple terms, what does the rate of photosynthesis tell you?

It tells you how fast a plant is photosynthesising, for example how much oxygen it makes each second or each minute.

What is the basic formula for working out a rate of photosynthesis from data?

Rate of photosynthesis = amount of product made (or reactant used) ÷ time taken.

A plant makes 20 cm³ of oxygen in 4 minutes. What is its rate of photosynthesis?

Rate = 20 ÷ 4 = 5 cm³ of oxygen per minute.

If you measure the time for one leaf disc to float, how can you turn this into a rate of photosynthesis?

Use rate = 1 ÷ time for one disc, so a shorter time means a higher rate.

Why do we use units like "bubbles per minute" instead of just "number of bubbles" in photosynthesis experiments?

Because including the time lets us fairly compare results that were measured for different lengths of time.

How do you calculate the mean (average) rate of photosynthesis from three repeat tests?

Add the three rate values together, then divide the total by 3.

When light is the only limiting factor, how does the rate of photosynthesis change as light intensity increases?

The rate of photosynthesis increases in direct proportion to the light intensity.

What is the inverse square law formula that links light intensity to distance from a lamp?

Light intensity is proportional to 1 ÷ distance², so intensity ∝ 1/d².

If you move a lamp from 10 cm to 20 cm away from a plant, how does light intensity change, and what happens to the rate of photosynthesis if light is limiting?

The distance doubles, so light intensity falls to one quarter; the rate of photosynthesis also falls to about one quarter.

How do you calculate the percentage change in the rate of photosynthesis between two tests?

Percentage change = (new rate − original rate) ÷ original rate × 100.