Biology 9700 · AS & A Level · Investigation of limiting factors

Investigation of limiting factors — practice question

Cotton, Gossypium hirsutum, and false flax, Camelina sativa, are crop species cultivated in different parts of the world. Rubisco activase is an enzyme in the chloroplast stroma that is required to keep a second enzyme, rubisco, active. Scientists investigated rubisco activase activity in cotton and false flax across a range of temperatures. Fig. 2.1 presents the results.
(a(i))[4]

Using Fig. 2.1 as a guide, compare the findings for cotton and false flax.

(a(ii))[3]

Suggest possible explanations for the differences displayed in Fig. 2.1.

(b)[3]

Rubisco enzymes from cotton and false flax remain active at temperatures up to $45^\circ\text{C}$ and denature at $45^\circ\text{C}$. Explain how the Calvin cycle is affected when rubisco denatures.

(c)[2]

One aim of genetic engineering is to produce crops that are heat tolerant, so that they can grow and give a good yield at high environmental temperatures. Use the information in Question 2 to suggest and explain one method of improving a crop’s tolerance to high temperatures.

(ii)[3]

Suggest possible explanations for the differences displayed in Fig. 2.1.

Worked solution & mark scheme

This 15-mark question has a full step-by-step worked solution and mark scheme. One marking point: The optimum temperature for cotton rubisco activase is higher than that for flax

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