What is the effect of increasing CO2 levels on the rate of photosynthesis?

Increasing CO2 levels positively influence the rate of photosynthesis by enhancing the availability of one of the key reactants needed for the process. Photosynthesis is driven by the reaction between carbon dioxide and water, using light energy to convert these inputs into glucose and oxygen. When the concentration of CO2 rises, plants can utilize this additional carbon for photosynthesis, thus increasing the overall rate of glucose production.

However, there is a limit to this effect; once other factors such as light intensity or temperature become limiting, the rate of photosynthesis may plateau despite continued increases in CO2 concentration. This phenomenon is often referred to as a saturation point, where additional CO2 does not further enhance photosynthesis because those other factors are not optimal. Therefore, while increased CO2 generally enhances the rate of photosynthesis up to a certain point, its ultimate effect is contingent on the availability of those other crucial factors.