What is the advantage of the \(C_{4}\) photosynthetic pathway as compared to the conventional \(\mathrm{C}_{3}\) pathway? How might these advantages influence where these plant species are found?

Answer: The main differences between C3 and C4 photosynthesis are the initial carbon fixation process and the enzyme involved. C3 photosynthesis uses the enzyme RuBisCO, which binds with CO2 to produce a 3-carbon compound (3PGA), while C4 photosynthesis includes an additional step where CO2 is combined with phosphoenolpyruvate (PEP), creating a 4-carbon compound that concentrates CO2 around the RuBisCO enzyme. This helps to reduce photorespiration and increase the efficiency of carbon fixation. The advantages of C4 photosynthesis, such as lower photorespiration and higher efficiency in high temperatures, light intensity, and low CO2 conditions, allow C4 plants to thrive better in tropical and subtropical regions, arid areas, or locations with high solar radiation. Examples of C4 plants include sugarcane, maize, and some grasses.