Part B Which statement explains the effect of temperature on the rate of photosynthesis? (A) Oxygen molecules break down at temperatures above \( 25^{\circ} \mathrm{C} \). (B) The rate of photosynthesis is unaffected by the temperature of the water. (C) The number of chloroplasts in the cell decreases as temperature increases. (D) Enzymies involved with plant photosynthesis are disrupted at temperatures above \( 25^{\circ} \)

Photosynthesis, the process by which plants convert light energy into chemical energy, is heavily influenced by temperature due to the enzymes that facilitate these reactions. When temperatures exceed optimal levels, typically around \( 25^{\circ} \mathrm{C} \), these enzymes can become denatured, leading to a decrease in the efficiency of photosynthesis and thereby affecting plant health and growth. High temperatures can also affect the availability of water for plants, which is crucial for photosynthesis. When plants lose too much water through transpiration, they can close their stomata to avoid dehydration, leading to reduced carbon dioxide uptake and a subsequent decline in photosynthesis. This can create a tricky balance where plants must manage both temperature and water availability effectively to maintain optimal photosynthetic rates.