Limiting Factors of Photosynthesis — GCSE Biology Revision
Revise Limiting Factors of Photosynthesis for GCSE Biology. Step-by-step explanation, worked examples, common mistakes and exam-style practice aligned to AQA, Edexcel, OCR, WJEC, Eduqas, CCEA, Cambridge International (CIE), SQA, IB, AP.
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Go to RespirationWhat is Limiting Factors of Photosynthesis?
The rate of photosynthesis is limited by the factor that is in shortest supply. These limiting factors are light intensity, carbon dioxide concentration, and temperature. Even if there is plenty of light and CO2, if the temperature is too low, the enzymes involved will work slowly, limiting the overall rate.
Board notes: Covered by all major boards (AQA, Edexcel, OCR). Interpreting graphs showing the effect of limiting factors is a common exam question.
Step-by-step explanationWorked example
A plant is in a greenhouse with plenty of light and a warm temperature (25°C), but the CO2 concentration is low. CO2 is the limiting factor. If the grower pumps more CO2 into the greenhouse, the rate of photosynthesis will increase. However, if they keep increasing the CO2, eventually light intensity or temperature will become the new limiting factor.
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Common mistakes
- 1Thinking that increasing one factor will always increase the rate. The rate will only increase until another factor becomes limiting. For example, increasing light intensity will only increase the rate up to a point where CO2 concentration becomes the limiting factor.
- 2Confusing the effect of temperature with light and CO2. While higher light and CO2 levels generally increase the rate (up to a point), temperatures that are too high will cause the enzymes to denature, causing the rate to drop rapidly.
- 3Forgetting that chlorophyll concentration can also be a limiting factor. A plant with yellowing leaves (due to magnesium deficiency) will have less chlorophyll and therefore a lower rate of photosynthesis.
Limiting Factors of Photosynthesis exam questions
Exam-style questions for Limiting Factors of Photosynthesis with mark-scheme style solutions and timing practice. Aligned to AQA, Edexcel, OCR, WJEC, Eduqas, CCEA, Cambridge International (CIE), SQA, IB, AP specifications.
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Step-by-step method
Step-by-step explanation
4 steps · Worked method for Limiting Factors of Photosynthesis
Core concept
The rate of photosynthesis is limited by the factor that is in shortest supply. These limiting factors are light intensity, carbon dioxide concentration, and temperature. Even if there is plenty of li…
Frequently asked questions
What is a limiting factor in photosynthesis?
A limiting factor is a variable that is in short supply and restricts the rate of photosynthesis. The main limiting factors are light intensity, carbon dioxide concentration, and temperature.
How can farmers use the concept of limiting factors?
Farmers can use this knowledge to increase crop yields. In a greenhouse, they can provide artificial lighting, heaters, and pump in CO2 to ensure the plants are photosynthesising at the maximum possible rate.