4. The concentration of atmospheric carbon dioxide has increased since the beginning of the industrial age. Based on what you have learned in this unit, predict the effect of increased carbon dioxide on the rate of photosynthesis in the biosphere.
As atmospheric carbon dioxide levels increase, the rate of photosynthesis in the biosphere is likely to increase. Carbon dioxide is a key component in the process of photosynthesis, as it is absorbed by plants and used to create glucose and oxygen. With higher levels of carbon dioxide available, plants may be able to photosynthesize more efficiently and produce more glucose, which can lead to increased growth and productivity. However, there may be a limit to how much carbon dioxide plants can effectively utilize, and other factors such as temperature and nutrient availability will also play a role in determining the overall impact on photosynthesis. Overall, increased carbon dioxide levels are likely to have a positive effect on the rate of photosynthesis in the biosphere, at least in the short term.
