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Introduction

All living organisms require energy to survive. This energy can either be obtained
directly from the sun (plants) or from the food that is eaten (animals). In this chapter,
we will look at how plants convert radiant energy into chemical potential energy
using the raw materials available to them. The term photosynthesis means light is
used (photo) to manufacture (synthesis) energy.

Key terminology
metabolism chemical processes in organisms controlled by enzymes
anabolism building up chemical reactions
catabolism breaking down chemical reactions
chemical used to test for starch – a positive test results in the
iodine solution
colour changing from brown to blue-black
green plants that produce their own food through
autotrophic
photosynthesis
organisms that cannot photosynthesize and obtain food from
heterotrophic
other organisms

The definition of photosynthesis

Photosynthesis is a chemical process by which carbohydrates (glucose) is

produced using radiant energy.

Key terminology
radiant energy energy from the sun, needed by plants for photosynthesis
chloroplast organelle in plants, site for photosynthesis
chlorophyll green pigment needed for photosynthesis
thylakoids part of the chloroplast that contains chlorophyll
stacks of thylakoids, light dependent phase of photosynthesis
grana
takes place here
liquid part of the chloroplast, light independent phase of
stroma
photosynthesis takes place here

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Photosynthesis occurs in green plants and takes place in the chloroplast of a cell.
This can be seen in Figure 1 below:

Photosynthesis
light energy

oxygen is
released

carbon dioxide is
absorbed
sugar is
formed

water is
absorbed

Figure 1: A diagram to show the requirements and products of photosynthesis

Requirements and products of photosynthesis

Plants are adapted to obtain what is required for photosynthesis as well as to release
the products. The requirements for and products of photosynthesis can be
represented in the equations given below:

Word Equation
Chlorophyll
Carbon dioxide + Water + Radiant energy Glucose + Oxygen
Enzymes

Chemical Equation:

Chlorophyll
CO2 + H2O + radiant energy C6H12O6 + O2
Enzymes

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The requirements and products for the process of photosynthesis are tabulated
below (Table 1).

Table 1: The requirements for and products of photosynthesis

Requirements Products
Glucose: Carbohydrate formed. It is
Carbon dioxide: Diffuses into the
converted and stored as starch in plants
leaves of plants
or glycogen in animals
Water: Inorganic substance absorbed Oxygen: Gas that is released back into
from soil by the roots of plants the atmosphere from the leaves
Radiant energy/ light energy:
Absorbed from the sun by leaves of
plants
Chlorophyll: Green pigment found
inside the chloroplasts
Enzymes: Found inside the
chloroplasts

The structure of a chloroplast

The process of photosynthesis occurs inside of the chloroplast, an organelle found

only in plant cells (Figure 2).
ribosomes

thylakoid stroma

double
granum
membrane

lamella

starch granule chloroplast DNA

Figure 2: The chloroplast

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Table 2: The parts of the chloroplast and their functions.

Part of the chloroplast Function

thylakoid disc shaped membranes that that contain chlorophyll
granum a stack of thylakoids
lamella membranes that make up the thylakoids
stroma liquid part of the chloroplast
starch granule glucose produced is stored as starch in this structure
chloroplast DNA contains genetic information
protects the chloroplast and allows substances to move
double membrane
in and out

The process of photosynthesis

The process of photosynthesis occurs in two phases:

 Light dependent phase: light is required
 Light independent phase: no light is required

Key terminology
splitting of water molecules into oxygen atoms and hydrogen
photolysis
atoms. photo = light, lysis = split
phosphorylation formation of energy transporting molecules called ATP
ATP adenosine triphosphate, energy carriers in cells
cyclical process during light independent phase of
Calvin cycle
photosynthesis
glucose carbohydrate formed during photosynthesis
starch stored form of glucose in plants
glycogen stored form of glucose in animals

Light dependent phase

The light dependent phase of photosynthesis (Figure 3) takes place in the grana of
chloroplasts as follows:

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radiant energy

①
④ H+
light-
independent
phase
③ H2 O
grana
⑤ O2
②
water ⑥ ATP light-independent
phase

Figure 3: The light dependent phase of photosynthesis

The numbers in the diagram represent the sequence of events:

1. The required radiant energy is absorbed by chlorophyll in the grana.
2. Water is absorbed into the grana of the chloroplast
3. Radiant energy causes the water molecule to split (photolysis), releasing:
4. Energy rich hydrogen (H+) ions which are taken into the light-
independent phase, and
5. Oxygen which is released back into the atmosphere
6. Radiant energy also causes the energy carrier ATP to be formed
(phosphorylation) which will be used in the light-independent phase.

Light independent phase

The light independent phase of photosynthesis (Figure 4) takes place in the stroma
of chloroplasts as follows:

① Carbon dioxide (CO2)

② CO2 + H+ + ATP Glucose

starch
③
granule

Figure 4: The light independent phase of photosynthesis

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The numbers in the diagram represent the sequence of events:

1. Carbon dioxide is absorbed from the atmosphere

2. Carbon dioxide and energy rich Hydrogen (H+) atoms, from the light
dependent phase, are combined by using ATP, from the light dependent
phase to from carbohydrates (glucose)
3. Excess glucose is stored as starch in starch granules.

This phase can take place in the presence of light or during the absence of light
because light is not required during this phase.

A comparison between the phases of photosynthesis

The following table (Table 3) provides a short overview of the different phases of
photosynthesis.

Table 3: Overview of the phases of photosynthesis

Light dependent phase Light independent phase

Occurs in the grana Occurs in the stroma
Light is required Light is not required
Radiant energy is absorbed and used for the Carbon dioxide is absorbed from
reactions of photolysis & phosphorylation the atmosphere
Hydrogen and carbon dioxide
Photolysis occurs: hydrogen is released and
combine by using atp to form
oxygen is returned to the atmosphere
glucose

Phosphorylation occurs: ATP is produced Excess glucose is stored as starch

Activity 1: Photosynthesis

1. Provide a definition for photosynthesis. (2)

2. Name the organelle in which this process occurs. (1)
3. Name the two phases of photosynthesis and provide the names of the
specific structures in the organelle mentioned above, where each phase of
photosynthesis takes place. (4)

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4. The diagram below represents the process of photosynthesis

A B

Phase 1 By-product C

+
H ATP

D Phase 2

a) Identify the phases labelled as Phase 1 and Phase 2 (2)

b) Provide the two raw materials labelled as A and B. (2)
c) Name the by-product labelled as C. (1)
d) Which substance labelled as D is essential for Phase 2? (1)
e) Name the product E that is produced during Phase 2. (1)
f) In what form is E stored in plants? (1)
(15)

The importance of photosynthesis

Photosynthesis is important for the following reasons:

 It balances the levels of carbon dioxide and oxygen in the atmosphere.
 The process uses carbon dioxide and releases oxygen.
 It uses radiant energy to produce chemical potential energy in the form of
glucose which serves as food for other organisms.
 Proteins and lipids are made by using the stored starch.

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Environmental factors affecting the rate of

photosynthesis

Photosynthesis can take place at different rates (speeds). Depending on the

concentration of the raw materials, photosynthesis will take place more slowly or more
quickly. The factors that affect the rate of photosynthesis (how slowly or quickly it takes
place) are:
 The intensity of light
 The concentration of carbon dioxide
 The temperature

The intensity of light

3 4
Rate of photosynthesis

1
Intensity of light

Figure 5: Line graph showing the effect of light intensity on the rate of
photosynthesis

Light intensity influences the rate of photosynthesis (Figure 5) as follows:

1. At low light intensity, the rate of photosynthesis is low.

2. As light intensity increases, the rate of photosynthesis also increases. This will
happen up to a certain point.
3. When light intensity is at the optimum amount, photosynthesis will occur most
rapidly.

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4. If light intensity increases past the optimum, the rate of photosynthesis will
remain constant. The other factors such as carbon dioxide become limiting
factors which reduces the rate of photosynthesis.

The concentration of carbon dioxide

Rate of photosynthesis

Concentration of CO2

Figure 6: Line graph showing the effect of the concentration of carbon dioxide
on the rate of photosynthesis.

The concentration of carbon dioxide (CO2) influences the rate of photosynthesis

(Figure 6) as follows:

1. At a low carbon dioxide concentration, the rate of photosynthesis is low.

2. As the carbon dioxide concentration level increases, the rate of photosynthesis
also increases. This will happen up to a certain point.
3. When the optimum amount of carbon dioxide is present, photosynthesis will
occur most rapidly.
4. If the carbon dioxide concentration is higher than the optimum amount, then
photosynthesis will remain constant. This is because the light independent
phase cannot take place more quickly than what it does at the optimum level
of carbon dioxide concentration.

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Temperature

Rate of photosynthesis

Temperature

Figure 7: Line graph showing the effect of temperature

on the rate of photosynthesis

A rise or fall in temperature influences the rate of photosynthesis that takes place.
Temperature influences the rate of photosynthesis (Figure 7) as follows:

1. When temperature is low, the rate of photosynthesis is low.

2. As temperature increases, the rate of photosynthesis also increases.
3. When temperature is at the optimum amount, the rate of photosynthesis will
reach a maximum.
4. If the temperature is higher than the optimum amount, then photosynthesis
will decrease in rate. This is because the enzymes used in the process will
denature at high temperatures and will no longer function.

Greenhouses

A greenhouse (as shown in Figure 8) is a structure with a transparent roof and walls,
and is used to grow plants.

Key terminology
a glass or plastic structure that traps heat and allows light to
greenhouse
enter, used to grow plants
phenomenon where heat from the sun is trapped on Earth
greenhouse effect
by CO2 in the atmosphere

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Figure 8: A greenhouse

Light enters the greenhouse through the roof and heat is trapped inside the structure.
Greenhouses can be used to maintain the optimal levels of the factors affecting the
rate of photosynthesis. This is done in the following ways:

 Light passes through the transparent structure. Artificial lights can be used to
allow the plants to photosynthesis for longer periods of time.
 Carbon dioxide is present in the atmosphere but more can be pumped into the
greenhouse or be produced by burning gas lamps.
 The temperature can be kept at the optimum level by using heating and
cooling devices.

The greenhouse effect is a natural phenomenon where heat is trapped in the

atmosphere of the Earth by carbon dioxide. This is very important to keep Earth at a
temperature which allows for life to occur. Without the greenhouse effect, the Earth
would be too cold to support life.
Due to carbon dioxide in the atmosphere increasing, the greenhouse effect is
becoming enhanced and this is leading to global warming.

Investigations

There are investigations which can be performed to determine if a factor is required

for photosynthesis or to determine the rate at which photosynthesis is occurring. In
the investigations, one plant (the experiment) is given all of the requirements except
for the factor being tested. Another plant is given all of the requirements in the same

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investigation and is referred to as the control. In most of the investigations, a test for
starch is performed at the end to prove that photosynthesis took place.
Destarching a plant
Before starting the investigations, starch must be removed from the plant. To do this:
 the plant is placed in a dark cupboard for 48 hours
 the plant uses the stored starch during the 48 hour period
 it can be proved that the starch present at the end of the investigation is due
to photosynthesis occurring.
The starch test can be used to prove that starch is a product of photosynthesis

Investigation 1: The Starch Test

During photosynthesis glucose is produced which is converted into starch. To

determine whether photosynthesis occurred, a test for starch can be performed.
If starch is present, then it can be concluded that photosynthesis occurred. If starch
is not present, then it can be concluded that photosynthesis did not occur.

1. 2. 3.

leaf in beaker iodine in

test tube
boiling with dropper
with leaf
boiling
water in alcohol
water

tripod tripod
with mesh with mesh iodine turning leaf blue-black

Figure 9: Experimental set-up to show starch is produced during photosynthesis

Method:

1. Place a leaf in a beaker of boiling water (see Figure 9). This softens the leaf
and kills the cells to stop metabolism
2. Place the leaf into a test tube containing ethanol (alcohol).

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3. Allow the test tube to stand in a beaker of boiling water (water bath) for
approximately 10 minutes
Ethanol cannot be exposed to direct heat because it is highly flammable and
has a boiling temperature lower than water, this is why it is placed into the
water bath.
Chlorophyll is soluble in alcohol and will be extracted from the leaf.
The leaf will turn white in colour and become brittle.
4. Carefully remove the brittle leaf from the alcohol and rinse it in water to soften
it.
5. Spread the leaf on a tile and pour a few drops of iodine solution onto it.

Results:
The leaf turns blue black which proves that starch has been produced by
photosynthesis.
The following investigations can be used to show the requirements and products of
photosynthesis.

Investigation 2: Light is required for photosynthesis

Light is one of the requirements for photosynthesis. An investigation can be

performed to show that without light, starch will not be produced and therefore no
photosynthesis took place.

Aim: To prove that light is required for photosynthesis

Method:
 Destarch a potted plant by placing it in a dark cupboard for 48 hours
 Cover a portion of the leaf, still attached to the plant, with aluminium foil
(Figure 10)
foil strip

Figure 10: Aluminium foil covering part of a leaf

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 Place the plant in a sunny area for 48 hours

 Pick the leaf and remove the foil
 Test for the presence of starch using the starch test.

The experiment is the part of the leaf covered by the foil, as it does not receive light.
The part of the leaf left uncovered is the control as it receives all of the requirements
for photosynthesis, including light.

Results:
Experiment (leaf covered with tinfoil): the iodine solution remains light brown.
Control (leaf left uncovered): the iodine solution turns blue-black.

Conclusion:
The parts that turn blue-black in colour contain starch. The part which remains light
brown does not contain starch.
Light is essential for photosynthesis to take place.

Investigation 3: Carbon dioxide is required for

photosynthesis

Carbon dioxide is a requirement for photosynthesis. An investigation can be

performed to show that without carbon dioxide, starch will not be produced and no
photosynthesis will take place. To do this, sodium hydroxide, potassium hydroxide or
soda lime can be used to remove carbon dioxide. Sodium bicarbonate or potassium
bicarbonate can be used to add carbon dioxide.

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Aim: To prove that carbon dioxide is required for photosynthesis

soda lime soda lime

bell jar with stopper

destarched
plant
sodium
bicarbonate
sodium
hydroxide

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Bell jar 1 Bell jar 2

Figure 11: Set-up to investigate effect of CO2 concentration on photosynthesis

Method:
 Destarch two potted plants by placing them in a dark cupboard for 48 hours
 Set up the apparatus as shown in Figure 11 above and water plants well.
 Sodium hydroxide is used to absorb carbon dioxide from the air in bell jar 1
 Sodium bicarbonate releases carbon dioxide into bell jar
 Place the sealed bell jars into a sunny area for 48 hours
 Pick a leaf from each plant and test for the presence of starch (using the
method in investigation 1.

Results:
 Bell jar 1 leaf: iodine solution remains light brown.
 Bell jar 2 leaf: iodine solution turns from light brown to blue-black.

Conclusion:
 Bell jar 1 leaf: No starch is produced. No photosynthesis can take place in the
absence of carbon dioxide.
 Bell jar 2 leaf: Starch is produced. Photosynthesis takes place in the presence
of carbon dioxide.

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Investigation 4: Chlorophyll is required for photosynthesis

Chlorophyll is one of the requirements for photosynthesis. A variegated leaf is used

to prove that without chlorophyll, starch will not be produced and therefore no
photosynthesis took place. A variegated leaf contains green parts (with chlorophyll)
and white parts (without chlorophyll) (see Figure 12). This leaf does not require
destarching as the experiment and control are on the same leaf.

Aim: To prove that chlorophyll is required for photosynthesis

green area
(with chlorophyll)

white area
(no chlorophyll)

Figure 12: Chlorophyll is required for photosynthesis

Method:
 Place a potted plant with variegated leaves (white and green parts) in a sunny
place for a few hours
 Remove a leaf from the potted plant
 Test for the presence of starch (using the method in investigation 1)

Results:
 Experiment (White part): iodine solution remains light brown.
 Control (Green part): iodine solution turns from light brown to blue-black.

Conclusion:
 Experiment (White part): Contains no starch. No photosynthesis can occur
without chlorophyll.
 Control (Green part): Contains starch. Photosynthesis takes place using
chlorophyll.
 Chlorophyll is essential for photosynthesis.

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Investigation 5: Photosynthesis produces oxygen

Oxygen is produced during photosynthesis. A glowing splint test is used to show that
oxygen is produced during photosynthesis. A test uses a small wooden stick that has
been lit. The splint glows more brightly or re-ignites in the presence of oxygen.

Aim: To prove that oxygen is produced during photosynthesis

Method:
 Set up the apparatus as shown the diagram in Figure 13 below

oxygen collecting
in test tube
oxygen bubble

funnel
beaker

water

pond weed
pebbles / spacers

Figure 13: Experimental set-up to show that oxygen is produced in photosynthesis

 Place the apparatus in a sunny area for a few hours

 A small amount of sodium bicarbonate can be dissolved in the water. Sodium
bicarbonate will add carbon dioxide to the water
 After a while gas bubbles will start to form. These gas bubbles will collect in
the test tube.
 Once enough gas has been trapped in the test tube, remove the test tube
from the funnel but keep the opening of the test tube submerged under the
water
 Seal the test tube using a rubber stopper while under the water
 Once it has been sealed, remove the test tube from the water
 Insert a glowing wooden splint into the test tube

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Results:
The glowing splint re-ignites or burns more brightly.
Oxygen is present in the test tube.

Conclusion:
Oxygen is produced during photosynthesis.

Activity 2: Investigating photosynthesis

A learner has conducted an experiment in the classroom by following various steps.
Study the procedure and diagram below to answer the questions that follow.
a) A variegated plant was left in the dark for 3 to 4 days
b) A starch test was conducted by removing one of the leaves
c) The plant was then left in the light for four hours
d) A leaf was removed and a drawing of it was made to show the distribution of
green and white areas (Diagram 1)

white area

green area

Diagram 1: leaf before second starch test

e) The leaf was then tested for the presence of starch

f) After the addition of a few drops of diluted iodine solution, a second drawing
of the leaf was made to show the distribution of blue- black and brown areas
of the leaf (Diagram 2 – not shown here)

Questions
1. State the aim of this experiment. (1)
2. Why was the plant left in the dark for 3 to 4 days? (1)
3. Why should the plant have been tested for the presence of starch after step
(a), before exposing the plant to light? (2)

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4. Draw and label Diagram 2 that shows the result of the second starch test as
mentioned in step (f). (Diagram 1 should be used as a template) (5)
5. Is it necessary to set up a control for this investigation? (1)
6. Supply a reason for your answer to question 5. (2)
7. What conclusion can be drawn from this experiment? (2)
(14)
Activity 3: Investigating gas bubbles released
The diagram below illustrates an investigation in progress. The distance between the
light source and the apparatus have been altered at regular intervals to record the
number of bubbles released at various distances. The data gathered has been
represented in a table below. Study the diagram and the data table below to answer
the following questions.

gas bubbles

lamp water plant

water with
sodium bicarbonate

1. What is the function of sodium bicarbonate? (1)

2. Name the gas released during the experiment. (1)
3. Provide a suitable hypothesis for the above experiment. (2)
4. Explain a simple test that can be done to confirm the presence of the gas
mentioned in question 3. (2)
5. Name any two environmental factors, besides light intensity, that could affect
the chemical process shown in the diagram above. (2)
6. The table below contains the following data: The number of air bubbles
counted when the distance between the lamp and apparatus is altered at
regular time intervals.

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Distance between
lamp and plant (mm) 40 80 120 160 200 240 280 320 360 400 440

Number of bubbles
30 30 30 25 15 10 5 3 2 0 0
per minute

Plot a line graph to represent the data obtained during the experiment. (6)
7. Identify:
(a) the dependent and
(b) independent variables in the experiment. (2)
8. What conclusion can be derived from the graph? (2)
(18)

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Photosynthesis: End of topic exercises

Section A
Question 1

1.1 Various options are provided as possible answers to the following questions.
Choose the correct answer and write only the letter (A – D) next to the
question number (1.1.1 – 1.1.5) on your answer sheet, for example 1.1.6 D

1.1.1 Plants use oxygen…

A continuously.
B during the day only.
C during the night only.
D during photosynthesis only

1.1.2 Test tubes A and B below were placed in bright light.

pondweed

snail

water

Which of the following is correct regarding the test tubes?

A The amount of CO2 in test tube A will decrease.

B The amount of CO2 in test tube B will increase.
C The amount of O2 in test tube B will increase.
D The amount of O2 in test tube A will increase.

1.1.3 What are the products of the light reactions of photosynthesis that
are used in the light independent phase?

A CO2 and glucose

B H2O and O2
C ATP
D ADP

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1.1.4 Which factor does not affect the rate of photosynthesis?

A Oxygen concentration
B Light intensity
C Temperature
D Carbon dioxide concentration

1.1.5 An experiment was set up to investigate whether oxygen is released

during photosynthesis. The result of the experiment is represented in
the following diagram.

Bell jar A Bell jar B

After a short time, The candle continues to

the candle went out burn for a longer period

The following deductions were made before arriving at the

conclusion.

(i) Photosynthesis reduces the amount of CO2 inside bell jar B

(ii) The oxygen in bell jar A was completely used up and
combustion is not supported
(iii) Photosynthesis increases the amount of oxygen inside
bell jar B
(iv) The smoke produced inside bell jar A is due to the
extinguished burning candle.

Which one of the following sets of deductions is correct?

A (i) and (iv) only

B (i), (ii) and (iii) only
C (i), (iii) and (iv) only
D (iii) and (iv) only
(5 × 2) = (10)

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1.2 Give the correct biological term for each of the following descriptions. Write
only the term next to the question number.
1.2.1 The green, light-trapping pigment in photosynthesis found in plant
leaves.
1.2.2 The splitting of water molecules into hydrogen and oxygen in the
presence of light.
1.2.3 Site of reactions of the light independent phase in the chloroplast.
1.2.4 The process in plants in which radiant energy is converted into
chemical energy.
1.2.5 Expected colour change of diluted iodine solution when the presence
of starch in a leaf is confirmed.
1.2.6 The general energy carrier in the cells of living organisms.
1.2.7 The form of carbohydrate in which energy is stored in most plants.
1.2.8 The organelle that absorbs radiant energy during photosynthesis.
1.2.9 The reagent used to test for the presence of starch.
1.2.10 The organic molecules that act as catalysts and control the
chemical reactions during photosynthesis.
(10 × 1) = (10)

1.3 Indicate whether each of the descriptions in Column I applies to A ONLY, B

ONLY, BOTH A AND B or NONE of the items in Column II. Write A only, B
only, both A and B or none next to the question number.
Column I Column II
A: ATP
1.3.1 Molecule that stores energy
B: ADP
1.3.2 The organelle in which A: mitochondria
photosynthesis takes place B: chloroplast
A: grana
1.3.3 Storage of chlorophyll
B: lamella
1.3.4 Light dependent phase of A: matrix
photosynthesis B: stroma
1.3.5 Gas given off by green plants during A: O2
photosynthesis B: CO2

(5 × 2) = (10)

1.4 Scientists set up an apparatus to investigate the effect of temperature, light

intensity and carbon dioxide concentrations on plant growth. Using this
apparatus, they could control each factor.

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 The scientists set different temperatures, CO2 concentrations and light

intensity for four different groups of lettuce plants.
 The average mass of lettuce plants serves as an indication of the rate
of photosynthesis.

Study the results below and answer the questions that follow.

Results of the investigation

Mean mass of lettuce plants after 21 days / grams

400
4% CO2, 25°C

4% CO2, 15°C
300

200

100
0,03% CO2, 25°C
0,03% CO2, 15°C
0
0 2 4 6 8 10
Light intensity / arbitrary units

1.4.1 What is the influence of light intensity on average mass of lettuce

plants? (3)
1.4.2 Name two limiting factors that influence the rate of photosynthesis as
the light intensity increases? (2)
1.4.3 How were the scientists able to increase the rate of
photosynthesis to the maximum level? (3)
1.4.4 What would happen to the rate of photosynthesis if the
temperature is raised beyond 35°C? Give a reason for your
answer. (2)
(10)

Section A: [40]

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Section B
Question 2

2.1 When light shines on pondweed, Elodea Sp, bubbles of gas are released.
The rate at which bubbles of gas are produced can be used to measure the
rate of photosynthesis.
An investigation was carried out to study the effect of different colours of light
on the rate of photosynthesis in the pondweed.
 The pondweed was exposed to one colour of light and left for 5
minutes before measurements were taken.
 The time taken for the release of 20 bubbles was recorded.
 The procedure was repeated using light of a different colour of
equal intensity.
 The apparatus was set up as shown in the diagram below.

gas bubble

pondweed

The results are shown in the table below:

Colour of light Time taken to release 20 bubbles (seconds)

Violet 80
Blue 40
Green 160
Yellow 140
Red 70

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2.1.1 Which colour light is the best for photosynthesis? (1)

2.1.2 State the:
a) independent variable (1)
b) dependent variable (1)
2.1.3 Calculate the average time taken for the release of 20 bubbles
for all colours. Show all working. (3)
2.1.4 Express bubble production under violet, blue and green light as
a ratio. (2)
2.1.5 Explain why the apparatus is left for 5 minutes under each colour
of light before taking measurements. (2)
2.1.6 Without modifying the apparatus, how could the reliability of the
results be increased? (2)
2.1.7 Using the results, explain how, when white light shines on the
plant, the leaves appear to be green. (2)
2.1.8 Draw a bar graph of the results shown in the table. (6)
(20)

2.2 Draw a labelled diagram of an organelle present in the leaves of plants

where photosynthesis takes place. (5)
[25]

Question 3
An experiment was conducted to determine whether light is necessary for
photosynthesis. The procedure followed is given below:
 A geranium potted plant was de-starched.
 A cross-shaped light slit was cut out on an aluminium foil.
 The aluminium foil stencil was then clipped onto one of the de-starched leaves
as shown in the diagram below.
 The potted plant was exposed to bright sunlight for 4 to 5 hours.
 After 5 hours the aluminium foil stencil was removed, and the leaf was tested
for starch.

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De-starched leaf Aluminium foil

stencil

3.1 Describe in the correct sequence the various steps that were
followed during a starch test. (6)
3.2 Mention one safety precaution that should be taken during this
experiment. (2)
3.3 Draw a labelled diagram of the leaf showing the result of the
investigation. (5)
3.4 Provide a conclusion for this experiment. (2)
[15]

Section B: [40]

Total marks: [80]

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