HESI A2 Biology Practice Test Related

Review HESI A2 Biology Practice Test related questions and content

When plants do not receive enough water, their photosynthetic rate drops. This is because:

  • A. water is a raw material for the light reactions in photosynthesis
  • B. carbon dioxide is not available
  • C. water provides the carbon atoms used to make sugar
  • D. not enough oxygen is produced to keep fermentation running
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: When plants do not receive enough water, their photosynthetic rate drops because water is a raw material required for the light reactions in photosynthesis. In the light reactions, water is split to provide electrons, which are then utilized to produce energy carriers used in converting carbon dioxide into glucose during the Calvin cycle. Therefore, without sufficient water, the light reactions cannot proceed effectively, ultimately leading to a decrease in photosynthetic rate. Choice B is incorrect because carbon dioxide is a separate raw material needed for the Calvin cycle, not the light reactions. Choice C is incorrect as water provides electrons, not carbon atoms, for photosynthesis. Choice D is incorrect because fermentation is not directly related to photosynthesis; oxygen is produced during photosynthesis, not fermentation.