How Do Light Conditions Affect The Rate Of Photosynthesis

The purpose of the study was to test the effect of various lighting conditions on the rate of photosynthesis. The prediction for this experiment was that if a plant receives more light, then it will have a higher rate of photosynthesis. Photosynthesis is a process that converts carbon dioxide into sugars such as glucose using energy from the sun. It is basically how plants make their own food. In order to make this food plants need carbon dioxide, water, and sunlight. Plants obtain these materials in a variety of ways. For example, carbon dioxide from the air passes through small pores, called stomata, in the leaves. Additionally, water is absorbed by the roots and passes through vessels in the stem on its way to the leaves. Lastly, sunlight is absorbed by a green chemical in the leaves.
Photosynthesis takes place in the leaves of plants. The leaves are made up of very small cells. Inside these cells are tiny structures called …show more content…
Light dependent reactions occur in the thylakoid membrane of the chloroplasts and take place only when light is available. During these reactions light energy is converted to chemical energy. Chlorophyll and other pigments absorb energy from sunlight. This energy is transferred to the photosystems responsible for photosynthesis. Water is used to provide electrons and hydrogen ions but also produces oxygen. The electrons and hydrogen ions are used to create ATP and NADPH. ATP is an energy storage molecule. NADPH is an electron carrier/donor molecule. Both ATP and NADPH will be used in the next stage of photosynthesis. The light independent is also known as the Calvin Cycle. This reaction occurs in the stroma of the chloroplasts. Although these reactions can take place without light, the process requires ATP and NADPH which were created using light in the first stage. Carbon dioxide and energy from ATP along with NADPH are used to form