A research group is studying the impact of artificial light wavelengths on the growth rate of a specific species of algae in a closed aquatic environment. They are particularly interested in how different light spectra affect the algae’s ability to perform photosynthesis and, consequently, its production of oxygen and glucose.
b. Explain how the process of photosynthesis, as represented by the equation in part (a), converts light energy into chemical energy. In your explanation, refer to the forms of energy involved and the molecules that store this energy. (3 marks)
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Create Free Account Log inThis is a free VCE Units 3 & 4 Chemistry practice question worth 3 marks, testing your understanding of Photosynthesis reaction. It falls under What are the current and future options for supplying energy? in Unit 3: How can design and innovation help to optimise chemical processes?. Submit your answer above to receive instant AI-powered marking and personalised feedback.
The global demand for energy and materials is increasing with world population growth. In this unit students investigate the chemical production of energy and materials. They explore how innovation, design and sustainability principles and concepts can be applied to produce energy and materials while minimising possible harmful effects of production on human health and the environment. Students analyse and compare different fuels as energy sources for society, with reference to the energy transformations and chemical reactions involved, energy efficiencies, environmental impacts and potential applications. They explore food in the context of supplying energy in living systems. The purpose, design and operating principles of galvanic cells, fuel cells, rechargeable cells and electrolytic cells are considered when evaluating their suitability for supplying society’s needs for energy and materials. They evaluate chemical processes with reference to factors that influence their reaction rates and extent. They investigate how the rate of a reaction can be controlled so that it occurs at the optimum rate while avoiding unwanted side reactions and by-products. Students conduct practical investigations involving thermochemistry, redox reactions, electrochemical cells, reaction rates and equilibrium systems. Throughout the unit students use chemistry terminology, including symbols, formulas, chemical nomenclature and equations, to represent and explain observations and data from their own investigations and to evaluate the chemistry-based claims of others. A student-designed scientific investigation involving the generation of primary data related to the production of energy and/or chemicals and/or the analysis or synthesis of organic compounds is undertaken in either Unit 3 or Unit 4, or across both Units 3 and 4, and is assessed in Unit 4 Outcome 3. The design, analysis and findings of the investigation are presented in a scientific poster format. School-based assessment The student’s level of achievement in Unit 3 will be determined by School-assessed Coursework. School-assessed Coursework for Unit 3 will contribute 20 per cent to the study score. For each outcome in this unit, students complete at least one task from a specified list. Assessment tasks must be completed mainly in class and within a limited timeframe. External assessment The level of achievement for Units 3 and 4 is also assessed by an end-of-year examination, which will contribute 50 per cent to the study score.
In this area of study students focus on analysing and comparing a range of fossil fuels and biofuels as energy sources for society, and carbohydrates, proteins and lipids as fuel sources for the body. They write balanced thermochemical equations for the combustion of various fuels. The amounts of energy and gases produced in combustion reactions are quantified using stoichiometry. They explore how energy can be sustainably produced from chemicals to meet the needs of society while minimising negative impacts on the environment. Outcome 1 On completion of this unit the student should be able to compare fuels quantitatively with reference to combustion products and energy outputs, apply knowledge of the electrochemical series to design, construct and test primary cells and fuel cells, and evaluate the sustainability of electrochemical cells in producing energy for society. Key knowledge
photosynthesis as the process that converts light energy into chemical energy and as a source of glucose and oxygen for respiration in living things: 6CO2(g) + 6H2O(l) → C6H12O6(aq) + 6O2(g)
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