Glasshouses and
polythene tunnels can be used to grow crops because they increase the rate of
photosynthesis and
increase crop yields. Since conditions can be controlled they can provide an
environment that
increases efficiency/allows the process to be sped up.
Glasshouses and
polythene tunnels allow farmers to manipulate an artificial environment with
optimum
conditions. The
limiting factors of photosynthesis (carbon dioxide concentration temperature +
light
intensity) and plant
growth (availability of light + water, temperature and nutrition) can be
maintained to
optimum conditions
resulting in a greater yield.
Glasshouses and
polythene tunnels mimic the greenhouse effect and provide warmth in the growing
area
to increase the rate
of photosynthesis (optimum temperature).
Glasshouses:
Glasshouses increase
yield of crops by protecting plants from the weather and pests. Heaters can be
used
to control temperature
(provides warmth) and can also control CO2 levels. Lamps can provide
light day
and night, the
extended periods of light maximizes photosynthesis and therefore also increases
rate of
growth.
-
Greenhouse gas effect increases the
temperature inside the glasshouse and allows the enzymes in the plant to work
at optimum temperature.
-
Provides shelter against harsh weather
e.g. strong storms/wind
-
Prevents water loss through
transpiration
-
Constant conditions
-
Can be warmed through the burning of
fossil fuels which will also provide carbon dioxide (one of the requirements of
photosynthesis)
Polythene tunnels:
Polythene tunnels can
provide some protection against the weather and pests, they are cheaper than
glasshouses and cover
a greater area of land so more crops can be grown in them. While they provide
less
shelter for the
plants, they are sometimes preferred over glasshouses because they are
adjustable.
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