Describe the factors affecting rate of photosynthesis.

Photosynthesis:

1. Photosynthesis is the process by which green plant cells prepare food by utilizing CO2, H2O and chlorophyll in the presence of sunlight.

External influences that influence photosynthesis include:

1. Light:
   • Light has a variety of effects on photosynthetic rates.
   • The rate of photosynthesis increases as the light intensity increases.
2. CO₂ concentration:
   • Because CO₂ is one of the most important raw materials in photosynthesis, its concentration influences the rate of photosynthesis.
   • It becomes a limiting element in natural photosynthesis due to its low concentration in the atmosphere.
   • When the CO₂ supply is increased at the optimal temperature and light intensity, the rate of photosynthesis increases dramatically.
3. Temperature:
   • Although temperature has no direct effect on photosynthesis, extremely low and extremely high temperatures have a negative impact.
4. Water:
   • Water has an indirect effect on photosynthetic rates.
   • When there is less water available, the rate of photosynthesis is slowed.