Crop Plants: Increasing Carbon Dioxide & Temperature

Carbon dioxide enrichment

Increasing CO₂ concentration around crops to boost photosynthesis

Heaters

Used in glasshouses to raise temperature for faster enzyme activity

Ventilation

Prevents overheating and maintains optimum temperature

Optimum temperature

Temperature at which photosynthesis and enzyme activity are fastest

Limiting factor

Factor that restricts the rate of photosynthesis when in short supply

Photosynthesis rate

Speed at which plants convert CO₂ and water into glucose

Faster growth

Result of increased photosynthesis from higher CO₂ and temperature

Why is CO₂ added to glasshouses?

To increase the rate of photosynthesis

What happens when CO₂ increases?

Plants photosynthesise faster and grow more quickly

Why is temperature increased?

To speed up enzyme reactions involved in photosynthesis

What happens if temperature is too high?

Enzymes denature and photosynthesis decreases

Why is ventilation needed?

To prevent overheating and maintain optimum conditions

Why do farmers control CO₂ and temperature?

To maximise crop yield

What is a limiting factor in photosynthesis?

A factor that restricts the rate when not at optimum

How do heaters help at night?

Maintain temperature when sunlight is absent

Why do commercial growers use both CO₂ and heat?

Together they maximise photosynthesis and growth