What factors influence the rate of photosynthesis?

There are 3 factors that can influence the rate of photosynthesis: light intensity, carbon dioxide concentration and temperature. Light intensity influences photosynthesis as light is required during the photosynthetic reaction; the more light available, the faster the rate of photosynthesis. Carbon dioxide is also needed in photosynthesis; if there is a high concentration of carbon dioxide it will be more readily available to the plant, meaning that there will be a faster rate of photosynthesis. Photosynthesis can only occur at certain temperatures, if the environment becomes too cold then photosynthesis will not occur. If it becomes too hot then enzymes will denature and photosynthesis will not be able to occur, however this is rare in nature. These 3 factors must be present for photosynthesis to occur. If there are 2 factors available, e.g. temperature and carbon dioxide, but another factor, e.g. light, is unavailable, then light becomes the limiting factor and photosynthesis cannot occur.

RS
Answered by Ruby S. Biology tutor

11103 Views

See similar Biology GCSE tutors

Related Biology GCSE answers

All answers ▸

Explain how eutrophication can result in low oxygen levels in the water in the stream.


How does temperature affect enzyme activity


Explain what happens to plant shoots when sunlight only reaches one side of the tip


Describe the pathway of blood flow through the pulmonary circuit


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning