Gross primary production (GPP) is the chemical energy store in plant biomass in a given area or volume
Gross primary production (GPP) measures all the chemical energy that plants lock into their biomass through photosynthesis. It covers a specific area or volume of an ecosystem.
Real World
The Amazon rainforest has a GPP of approximately 12 kg C m⁻² year⁻¹, making it the most productive terrestrial biome on Earth — a key reason why deforestation there has global consequences for carbon cycling.
Exam Focus
Define GPP as total chemical energy fixed by photosynthesis, not just 'energy made by plants' — imprecise wording loses marks.
Evaluation Scaffold
A four-step framework for high-quality evaluation. Use this for 'assess', 'evaluate', and 'to what extent' questions.
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