Question 1: Define the term 'limiting factor' in the context of photosynthesis.

Answer: A limiting factor is an environmental variable that restricts the rate of photosynthesis when it is in short supply or not optimal.

Question 2: List three environmental factors that can act as limiting factors for photosynthesis in outdoor sports fields.

Answer: Light intensity, carbon dioxide concentration, and temperature.

Question 3: Explain how reduced sunlight during winter can impact the growth of grass on sports fields.

Answer: Reduced sunlight decreases the light intensity available for photosynthesis, which can slow down the production of glucose and oxygen in grass. This can result in slower growth, weaker plants, and less healthy turf for sports activities.

Question 4: In a sports science study, researchers found that increasing carbon dioxide levels improved photosynthesis rates in turfgrass. If the initial CO2 level is 400 ppm and it is increased to 600 ppm, what is the percentage increase in CO2 concentration?

Answer: 50%

Question 5: Identify the independent variable in an experiment testing the effect of temperature on photosynthesis rate in grass used for sports fields.

Answer: The temperature of the environment.

Question 6: Which of the following would most likely increase the rate of photosynthesis in turfgrass? A) Decreasing light intensity B) Increasing CO2 levels C) Lowering temperature below 0°C D) Reducing water availability

Answer:

Question 7: Fill in the blank: During hot summer days, high temperatures can act as a ______ factor, potentially limiting photosynthesis in grass on sports fields.

Answer: limiting

Question 8: Describe a practical experiment a sports facility manager could perform to determine which environmental factor most limits the growth of their turfgrass.

Answer: They could systematically vary one environmental factor at a time, such as light, temperature, or CO2 levels, while keeping other factors constant. By measuring the growth rate or health of the grass under each condition, they can identify which factor most restricts photosynthesis and turf health.

Question 9: In a scenario where a sports field is shaded during part of the day, what is the likely effect on the photosynthesis rate of the turfgrass, and why?

Answer: The photosynthesis rate will decrease because reduced light intensity limits the ability of plants to produce glucose, affecting growth and turf quality.

Question 10: A sports scientist is studying how temperature affects photosynthesis in grass. If the temperature rises from 20°C to 35°C, what potential effect might this have on the photosynthesis rate, assuming other factors are optimal?

Answer: Initially, the rate may increase, but if temperatures become too high, enzymes involved in photosynthesis may become denatured or less efficient, potentially decreasing the rate.