Is the rate of photosynthesis directly related to absorbance by plant pigments?
Michael, Austin, Michele, Kara CU Boulder, Fall 2001 In this study we examined if photosynthetic rate is directly related to absorbance. We were aware of the peak absorbance levels of the plant, for the different wavelengths tested prior to the study. If rate of photosynthesis is determined by absorbance level, then rate of photosynthesis will be highest at wavelengths of 400-500 nanometers (blue) and lowest rate of photosynthesis at wavelengths of 510-550nm (green). We assigned 2.6 g of green leaves to be put in a sealed insulated container with a carbon dioxide gas sensor inside. For a total of five minutes, carbon dioxide levels in ppm/minute is measured using Logger Pro software on computer, as the leaves were subjected to 400-500nm lightwaves. We used 2.0 g and 1.9 g of the same type leaf, leaving all variables constant, and subjected the leaves to 600-700 nanometer and 500-600nm lightwaves respectively. New leaves are put in when a different light wave is used. New leaves are use
