Question

study the equation for photosynthesis.
a scientist notices an increase in the glucose production in the plants he is studying. what are the possible reasons? check all that apply.
light energy
the plant was exposed to more intense light.
6co₂ + 6h₂o → c₆h₁₂o₆ + 6o₂
the plant was exposed to less intense light.
chlorophyll
the plant absorbed more carbon dioxide.
the plant absorbed less carbon dioxide.
the plant absorbed more oxygen.
the plant absorbed less oxygen.

Explanation:

• Light intensity: Photosynthesis requires light energy. More intense light provides more energy for the reaction \(6CO_2 + 6H_2O\xrightarrow[Chlorophyll]{Light\ energy}C_6H_{12}O_6 + 6O_2\), so increased light intensity can lead to more glucose (\(C_6H_{12}O_6\)) production.
• Carbon dioxide: \(CO_2\) is a reactant in photosynthesis. More \(CO_2\) (a reactant) available means more substrate for the photosynthetic reaction, which can result in more glucose production.
• Oxygen: \(O_2\) is a product of photosynthesis (\(6CO_2 + 6H_2O\xrightarrow[Chlorophyll]{Light\ energy}C_6H_{12}O_6 + 6O_2\)). Changes in oxygen absorption (since it's a product, plants don't “absorb” it as a reactant for photosynthesis in the context of this reaction) won't directly cause an increase in glucose production. Less intense light would provide less energy for the reaction and would likely decrease glucose production. Less \(CO_2\) (a reactant) would also likely decrease glucose production.

Answer:

• The plant was exposed to more intense light.
• The plant absorbed more carbon dioxide.