Comparing Photosynthesis Hypotheses

In a study investigating the effect of carbon dioxide levels on the photosynthesis rates of aquatic plants, two researchers, Dr. Liu and Dr. Garcia, proposed conflicting hypotheses.

Dr. Liu hypothesized that increased carbon dioxide concentrations will lead to a proportional increase in the rate of photosynthesis, suggesting a direct and linear relationship.

Dr. Garcia proposed that while higher carbon dioxide levels initially boost photosynthesis, there will be a threshold beyond which the rate will plateau or even decline due to other limiting factors such as light availability or nutrient depletion.

Both hypotheses were tested through a series of experiments where varying levels of carbon dioxide were introduced to controlled aquatic environments, and photosynthesis rates were measured.