BRAINCAKETemperature
Temperature affects organisms mainly through its effect on enzymes. As temperature rises, molecules have more kinetic energy, so enzyme-substrate complexes form more often and reactions such as photosynthesis and respiration speed up. Above the optimum, enzymes begin to denature and the rate falls sharply. At very low temperatures, ice crystals can form inside cells and damage membranes.
Effects on plants. Plant growth and the rate of photosynthesis depend on temperature, so in cold climates the growing season is short and productivity is low. Temperature also affects transpiration and the germination of seeds, and frost limits the distribution of many plant species.
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Key terms in this lesson
- transpiration
- The loss of water vapour from a plant, mainly through stomata in the leaves.
More in The Nature of Ecosystems
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- Water Availability
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All 39 lessons in The Nature of Ecosystems · All Edexcel A-level Biology topics