Question 1: Define the overall chemical reaction of photosynthesis, including the main reactants and products.

Answer: Carbon dioxide + water —(light energy)—> glucose + oxygen

Question 2: Explain how engineering efforts can optimise the light absorption process in photosynthetic systems.

Answer: Engineering can optimise light absorption by designing solar panels or bio-reactors with materials that enhance light capture, such as specialised coatings or geometries that increase surface area, thereby improving the efficiency of photosynthesis in bioengineered systems.

Question 3: Calculate the amount of glucose produced if 12 mol of carbon dioxide are used in photosynthesis, given the simplified reaction: 6CO2 + 6H2O —(light)—> C6H12O6 + 6O2.

Answer: 2 mol

Question 4: Identify one safety precaution that must be considered when designing a bio-reactor for large-scale photosynthesis.

Answer: Preventing excessive heat buildup to avoid damaging biological components and ensuring proper containment of gases like oxygen.

Question 5: Describe one practical way engineers can measure the efficiency of a photosynthetic bio-reactor.

Answer: Engineers can measure the rate of oxygen production or glucose formation over time, and compare it to the amount of light energy input and CO2 consumption to assess efficiency. Using sensors and gas chromatography can provide precise data for analysis.

Question 6: Fill in the blank: The enzyme that catalyses the conversion of carbon dioxide into organic molecules during photosynthesis is called ________.

Answer: Rubisco

Question 7: Which of the following materials is most suitable for constructing a bio-reactor that maximises light transmission?

Answer: Glass

Question 8: In an industrial setting, how can the reaction of photosynthesis be integrated into sustainable energy production?

Answer: By bioengineering algae or plants to produce biofuels or electricity through photosynthetic reactions, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and harnessing natural sunlight as a renewable energy source.

Question 9: Analyse a scenario where a bio-reactor has a 15% conversion efficiency of light energy into chemical energy. If the reactor receives 1000 joules of light energy, how much energy is stored in the produced glucose?

Answer: 150 joules

Question 10: Explain why engineering the reaction pathway of photosynthesis could help improve crop yields in agriculture.

Answer: Engineering the reaction pathway could enhance the efficiency of carbon fixation and energy conversion, enabling plants to produce more biomass per unit of sunlight and CO2. This could lead to higher crop yields, better growth in less favourable conditions, and improved food security.