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Multiple Choice
Which of the following best describes how light intensity and distance from a light source affect the rate of photosynthesis in plants?
A
The rate of photosynthesis decreases as light intensity increases, regardless of distance.
B
Light intensity and distance have no effect on the rate of photosynthesis.
C
As light intensity increases (or distance decreases), the rate of photosynthesis increases up to a certain point, after which it levels off.
D
As distance from the light source increases, the rate of photosynthesis increases indefinitely.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Step 1: Understand the relationship between light intensity and photosynthesis. Photosynthesis is the process by which plants convert light energy into chemical energy. Light intensity directly affects the rate of photosynthesis because it provides the energy needed for the reaction.
Step 2: Recognize the inverse relationship between distance and light intensity. Light intensity decreases as the distance from the light source increases, following the inverse square law. This means that the farther a plant is from the light source, the less light it receives, which can reduce the rate of photosynthesis.
Step 3: Identify the saturation point in photosynthesis. As light intensity increases, the rate of photosynthesis also increases, but only up to a certain point. Beyond this saturation point, other factors such as carbon dioxide concentration or enzyme activity become limiting, and the rate of photosynthesis levels off.
Step 4: Eliminate incorrect options. For example, the statement 'Light intensity and distance have no effect on the rate of photosynthesis' is incorrect because both factors significantly influence photosynthesis. Similarly, the statement 'The rate of photosynthesis decreases as light intensity increases' is incorrect because photosynthesis generally increases with light intensity up to the saturation point.
Step 5: Conclude that the correct answer is: 'As light intensity increases (or distance decreases), the rate of photosynthesis increases up to a certain point, after which it levels off.' This accurately describes the relationship between light intensity, distance, and the rate of photosynthesis.