Question

students conducted an experiment to determine if water temperature affects the rate of photosynthesis in pondweed. they collected the data shown in the table.

water temperature (°c)	number of o₂ bubbles produced per minute
15	30
20	37
25	42
30	45
35	43
40	40
45	32

which conclusion can be defended based upon this data?

• photosynthesis in pondweed is at its highest rate of productivity at 30°c.
• photosynthesis in pondweed is at its highest rate of productivity at 40°c.
• the rate of photosynthesis increases as the temperature increases
• the rate of photosynthesis decreases as the temperature increases

Explanation:

1. Analyze the data: At 10°C, O₂ bubbles are 25; at 15°C, 30; 20°C, 37; 25°C, 42; 30°C, 45; 35°C, 43; 40°C, 40; 45°C, 32.
2. Check each option:

• Option 1: At 30°C, 45 bubbles (highest among all, as 35°C has 43, 40°C 40, etc.).
• Option 2: At 40°C, 40 bubbles, less than 30°C's 45.
• Option 3: After 30°C, the rate (bubbles) decreases (35°C:43 < 30°C:45), so rate doesn't always increase.
• Option 4: From 10°C to 30°C, rate increases, so it's not always decreasing.

Answer:

A. Photosynthesis in pondweed is at its highest rate of productivity at 30°C