Biosphere Contents

3. Photosynthesis

Plants need sunlight to photosynthesise

Leaves harvest sunlight for use in photosynthesis. The flat shape of leaves and their orientation with respect to the sun, gives an optimal structure for trapping light and taking up carbon dioxide. Various factors, including light, water and nutrient availability can limit plant growth. As long as a plant has sufficient light, water and nutrients, warmer temperatures will result in greater plant growth because chemical reactions, such as photosynthesis, proceed faster with higher temperatures.

Can you explain the process of photosynthesis?