Photosynthesis plays a crucial role in the seasonal changes of atmospheric carbon dioxide levels in the Northern Hemisphere. In spring, as leaves emerge and photosynthesis resumes, plants absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere to produce glucose and oxygen, leading to a decrease in atmospheric CO2 concentrations. By May, when plant growth is at its peak, the uptake of carbon dioxide through photosynthesis is high, resulting in the highest levels of atmospheric CO2. Conversely, in autumn, as leaves fall and photosynthesis rates decline, the uptake of carbon dioxide decreases, allowing CO2 levels to rise again, reaching their lowest point in October. Thus, the seasonal cycle of photosynthesis directly influences atmospheric carbon dioxide concentrations.
Climate scientists have observed seasonal changes in atmospheric carbon dioxide concentration. In the Northern Hemisphere, they have measured the highest levels of carbon dioxide in the month of May. They have also measured the lowest levels of atmospheric carbon dioxide in the month of October. Hypothesize how photosynthesis can affect these changes. Consider the process of photosynthesis and its inputs and outputs. Explain your answer in three to five sentences.
Things to keep in mind as you develop your hypothesis:
1. In the Northern Hemisphere, leaves appear on trees in the spring and fall from trees in the autumn.
2. Leaves are where photosynthesis occurs.
3. How does photosynthesis effect carbon dioxide?
1 answer