WJEC A Level Biology
WJEC A Level Biology 3.2 Photosynthesis Exam Questions
Free WJEC A Level Biology exam questions on 3.2 Photosynthesis, with mark schemes. Covers chloroplast structure, light-dependent and light-independent reactions, and limiting factors.
3.2 Photosynthesis exam questions
1 question pack of real past exam questions with its mark scheme. Answer every question without notes, then mark your answers line by line against the mark scheme.
StemUp mark scheme flashcards
WJEC A Level Biology Flashcards (Anki & Quizlet)
Every answer is written in mark scheme wording, so you learn exactly what examiners give marks for. Use them on Anki or Quizlet, then test yourself with the questions on this page.
£16.99View flashcards
About WJEC A Level Biology 3.2 Photosynthesis
This topic explains how plants make organic molecules. Expect questions on pigments and the Calvin cycle.
What you need to know
- Chloroplasts Thylakoid membranes and grana hold pigments; the stroma holds Calvin cycle enzymes.
- Light-dependent stage Photosystems, photolysis, cyclic and non-cyclic photophosphorylation producing ATP and reduced NADP.
- Light-independent stage RuBisCO fixes CO₂ to RuBP forming GP, reduced to triose phosphate, and RuBP is regenerated.
- Limiting factors Light intensity, CO₂ concentration and temperature.
Common mistakes in 3.2 Photosynthesis
- Saying the Calvin cycle needs darkness.
- Confusing cyclic and non-cyclic photophosphorylation.
- Forgetting oxygen comes from photolysis of water.
Try three 3.2 Photosynthesis exam-style questions
1. Name the five-carbon compound that accepts CO₂. (1 mark)
Show the mark scheme answer
Ribulose bisphosphate (RuBP).
2. Explain why the light-independent reactions stop in the dark. (2 marks)
Show the mark scheme answer
ATP and reduced NADP are no longer produced (1), so GP cannot be reduced to triose phosphate (1).
3. Explain what is meant by a limiting factor. (1 mark)
Show the mark scheme answer
The factor in shortest supply that limits the rate of the process.
3.2 Photosynthesis FAQs
What does Photosynthesis cover?
Chloroplast structure, the light-dependent and light-independent stages and limiting factors.
Which practicals link here?
Chromatography of pigments and investigating factors affecting photosynthesis.
What does RuBisCO do?
It catalyses the fixation of CO₂ to RuBP.
Revise this topic with flashcards: WJEC A Level Biology Flashcards, with mark scheme answers for Anki and Quizlet.
