How does the “greenhouse effect” affect the process of photosynthesis?
An interesting question. Here are a few leads for you to follow up. Rise in carbon dioxide levels may increase the rate of photosynthesis when it is a limiting factor e.g. a warm summer’s day in the UK. This should improve crop productivity. Warmer temperatures will also increase photosynthesis but only up to the compenstion point as at high temperatures photosynthesis is inhibited whereas respiration continues to increase. Added to this are complex factors like changes in rainfall patterns – drought would cause stomatal closure and this would reduce photosynthesis. C4 plants may show different responses to C3 plants. Warmer temperatures may also affect weed competitors and insect pests and so reduce yield.
