Photosynthesis plays a crucial role in influencing seasonal changes in atmospheric carbon dioxide concentrations in the Northern Hemisphere. During the spring and summer months, when leaves are fully developed, the rate of photosynthesis increases significantly. This process utilizes carbon dioxide from the atmosphere as one of its key inputs, resulting in a decrease in atmospheric CO2 levels, which is reflected in the lower concentrations measured in October. Conversely, in autumn, as leaves fall and photosynthesis slows down, less CO2 is absorbed from the atmosphere, leading to a rise in carbon dioxide levels, peaking in May before the decline in photosynthetic activity. Thus, the seasonal cycle of leaf growth and shedding directly correlates with the fluctuations in carbon dioxide concentration.
limate 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:
In the Northern Hemisphere, leaves appear on trees in the spring and fall from trees in the autumn.
Leaves are where photosynthesis occurs.
How does photosynthesis effect carbon dioxide?
(4 points)
1 answer