9700 · 13.2
Investigation of limiting factors — FAQ
Frequently asked questions for 9700 Investigation of limiting factors. Direct answers first, then deeper explanation — then practise with marking.
What is a limiting factor in biology for Cambridge 9700?
A limiting factor is a variable that restricts the rate of a biological process when it is in short supply. For Cambridge 9700 Biology, you need to understand how factors like light intensity, CO₂ concentration, and temperature can limit processes like photosynthesis. Our free revision course covers this and provides past paper practice.
How do you investigate limiting factors for photosynthesis in an experiment?
To investigate limiting factors for photosynthesis, you design an experiment where you systematically vary one factor (e.g., light intensity) while keeping all other potential limiting factors constant (e.g., temperature, CO₂ concentration). You then measure the rate of photosynthesis (e.g., O₂ production) and plot your results on a graph to identify where the varied factor becomes limiting, shown by a plateau. Check out our free lessons for detailed experimental setups.
What are the three main limiting factors for photosynthesis?
The three main limiting factors for photosynthesis are light intensity, carbon dioxide concentration, and temperature. Each of these can independently restrict the rate of photosynthesis if it is not at its optimal level, even if the other two factors are abundant. Practising past paper questions helps solidify your understanding of how each factor operates.