Science Buddies: "Ask an Expert"

Hi, I'm working on a project to see the effect of microwave radiation on the leaves of a plant (as a substitute to humans). I'm not sure what to measure, and I'm running out of time. My teacher mentioned transpiration, but I don't have the materials. What else can I measure to show the effects of microwave radiation on the leaves of a plant?

Thank you,
Kelly

One way of measuring transpiration is to weigh a dry plastic bag, then place it over the plant. As the plant transpires and releases water, it will collect on the bag. Weigh the bag again but include the water. You'll see how much water the plat released. Try your microwave experiment and then do the bag test again.

Another method is to make a potometer. That might or might not work for you since you also need to put the plant in a microwave, but it's worth Googling to find out how to make one. There is quite a bit of helpful information on plant transpiration available that way although I'd agree it's not going to be a very exact experiment with inexpensive kitchen equipment.

It sounds like an interesting project though. Please keep us posted on how it's going.

I will second the previous suggestion that measuring transpiration is not that difficult. One can also use an old 2 liter soda bottle: http://www.education.com/science-fair/a ... t-sources/