Science Buddies: "Ask an Expert"

What do you think is the best way to measure transpiration?

Hi,

Here are some resources discussing measurement of transpiration:

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/article ... 0-0497.pdf

http://www.accessexcellence.org/MTC/96P ... /brown.php

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Potometer

http://www.wonderwhizkids.com/popups/401.html

http://www.bio.miami.edu/dana/161/evolu ... ration.pdf

http://books.google.com/books?id=f7Ps7C ... on&f=false

To summarize this answer, the “standard” way is to measure either the mass or volume of water raken up by the plant (whole or branch of the plant). The links above describe several designs to do this. Which one is best in your situation depends on the equipment you have access to, and exactly what you want to know. Generally the measurement devices are known as photometers.

Good luck!

Best regards,

Barrett L Tomlinson