Question

several students performed a controlled experiment in which they measured the rates of photosynthesis (as a function of oxygen production) in pea plants which were grown under a wide range of wavelengths (colors) of light. the graph shows their results. the students’ initial hypothesis was that green light would result in the highest rates of photosynthesis for pea plants. should the results lead the students to confirm or reject their hypothesis? they should accept their hypothesis because the plants seem to have their maximum photosynthetic rates under green light they should reject their hypothesis because the plants have higher photosynthetic rates under red and blue light colors they should accept their hypothesis because all plants are green, so all plants must be using green light to perform photosynthesis they should reject their hypothesis because there does not seem to be a significant difference between in photosynthesis rates among the colors.

Explanation:

1. Analyze the hypothesis: The initial hypothesis is that green light gives the highest photosynthesis rate.
2. Analyze the graph (from the description and options): The graph shows that red and blue light have higher photosynthesis rates (oxygen production) than green light.
3. Evaluate each option:

• First option: Incorrect, as green light does not have the maximum rate.
• Second option: Correct, because red and blue light have higher rates, so the hypothesis (green light highest) is rejected.
• Third option: Incorrect, the color of the plant (green) is due to chlorophyll reflecting green light, not using it most for photosynthesis.
• Fourth option: Incorrect, there is a significant difference (e.g., red/blue vs green).

Answer:

They should reject their hypothesis because the plants have higher photosynthetic rates under red and blue light colors