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Photosynthesis Investigation Worksheet

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Photosynthesis Investigation Worksheet

A small plant nursery is comparing ways to help seedlings grow. Use the results and practical notes below to interpret evidence and plan fair tests. In a fair test, change one factor, measure the outcome, and keep other conditions the same.

What the evidence shows

1.Complete the word equation for photosynthesis by filling both gaps: carbon dioxide + → glucose + . Choose from water and oxygen.

2.Which cell structure contains chlorophyll and is the main site of photosynthesis?

Nucleus
Chloroplast
Mitochondrion
Cell wall

Nursery light test

A student placed similar pondweed sprigs at different distances from the same lamp. They counted bubbles released in one minute. Other conditions were kept the same.

Distance from lamp: 10 cm

Bubbles per minute: 45

Distance from lamp: 20 cm

Bubbles per minute: 28

Distance from lamp: 30 cm

Bubbles per minute: 15

Distance from lamp: 40 cm

Bubbles per minute: 8

3.Describe the pattern in the pondweed results as the lamp is moved farther away.

4.Calculate the mean number of bubbles per minute for the 10 cm and 20 cm results. Show your calculation.

5.In this investigation, name the independent variable and the dependent variable.

Plan and evaluate practical tests

6.A nursery wants to test how temperature affects photosynthesis. Suggest how to change temperature, what to measure, and two conditions to keep the same.

7.A class tests a leaf for starch. Select every accurate statement about the test.

Iodine turns blue-black where starch is present.
The leaf is boiled in water to stop its chemical reactions.
Ethanol removes chlorophyll from the leaf.
A yellow-brown iodine colour proves photosynthesis occurred.

8.Why do leaves contain a green pigment? Explain how its location in cells helps photosynthesis.

9.A student claims, “More light always means a plant will photosynthesise faster.” Give one reason this claim may not always be true.

10.Design a simple test to collect evidence that oxygen is produced during photosynthesis. Include a control or comparison that would make the evidence stronger.

11.A New Zealand grower can adjust lighting, temperature and carbon dioxide in a greenhouse. Choose two factors and explain how controlling them could help seedlings grow, while noting one limitation.