Compensation Point

 
2.5 Compensation Point
 
Definition of Compensation Point
The level of light intensity when the rate of respiration equals to the rate of photosynthesis.
 
Light Intensity and Attainment of Compensation Point
  • A t the compensation point, the rate of photosynthesis is the same as the rate of respiration.
  • At the compensation point:
    • The amount of carbon dioxide released during cellular respiration is equal to the amount of carbon dioxide used for photosynthesis.
    • The amount of oxygen released during photosynthesis is equal to the amount of oxygen for cellular respiration.

  • If the rate of photosynthesis and rate of cellular respiration remain at the compensation point,the plants do not grow normally. This is because:
    • The rate of photosynthesis is low.
    • All glucose produced from photosynthesis are oxidised during cellular respiration.
    • The energy produced from cellular respiration only sufficient to support the daily use of plants.
    • No excessive energy for normal growth.
    • No excess storage food in plants.
 
Comparison between Photosynthesis and Respiration in Plants
Similarities
Differences
Photosynthesis Aspect Respiration
Green plants and photosynthetic bacteria. Organisms involved All living organisms.
Happens in the cells containing chlorophyll. Type of cells Happens in all cells.
Anabolism process happens, which is the synthesis of glucose using carbon dioxide and water. Type of metabolism Catabolism process happens, which is the breakdown of glucose to produce energy.
Chloroplast. Site Mitochondria.
Carbon dioxide and water. Reaction substances Oxygen and glucose.
Glucose. Products Energy.
Carbon dioxide and water. By-products Carbon dioxide and water.
Light energy is absorbed and converted into chemical energy. Energy involvement Chemical energy is converted to ATP and heat energy is released.
Needs light. Light requirement Does not need light.
 

 

 

 

Compensation Point

 
2.5 Compensation Point
 
Definition of Compensation Point
The level of light intensity when the rate of respiration equals to the rate of photosynthesis.
 
Light Intensity and Attainment of Compensation Point
  • A t the compensation point, the rate of photosynthesis is the same as the rate of respiration.
  • At the compensation point:
    • The amount of carbon dioxide released during cellular respiration is equal to the amount of carbon dioxide used for photosynthesis.
    • The amount of oxygen released during photosynthesis is equal to the amount of oxygen for cellular respiration.

  • If the rate of photosynthesis and rate of cellular respiration remain at the compensation point,the plants do not grow normally. This is because:
    • The rate of photosynthesis is low.
    • All glucose produced from photosynthesis are oxidised during cellular respiration.
    • The energy produced from cellular respiration only sufficient to support the daily use of plants.
    • No excessive energy for normal growth.
    • No excess storage food in plants.
 
Comparison between Photosynthesis and Respiration in Plants
Similarities
Differences
Photosynthesis Aspect Respiration
Green plants and photosynthetic bacteria. Organisms involved All living organisms.
Happens in the cells containing chlorophyll. Type of cells Happens in all cells.
Anabolism process happens, which is the synthesis of glucose using carbon dioxide and water. Type of metabolism Catabolism process happens, which is the breakdown of glucose to produce energy.
Chloroplast. Site Mitochondria.
Carbon dioxide and water. Reaction substances Oxygen and glucose.
Glucose. Products Energy.
Carbon dioxide and water. By-products Carbon dioxide and water.
Light energy is absorbed and converted into chemical energy. Energy involvement Chemical energy is converted to ATP and heat energy is released.
Needs light. Light requirement Does not need light.