Transpiration Rate Calculation
Measuring Water Uptake in Plants Using a Potometer
Observe how different environmental conditions affect the rate of transpiration in plants. The potometer measures water uptake, which correlates with transpiration rate.
0 mm
15 mm
30 mm
Rate: 0 mm/min
Conditions: Normal
Conditions: Normal
Observation:
Under normal conditions, the plant shows a moderate transpiration rate as water moves through the potometer.
The Science Behind Transpiration
Key Concepts:
Transpiration is the process of water movement through a plant and its evaporation from aerial parts:
- Potometer measures the rate of water uptake by a plant
- Stomata open to allow gas exchange but result in water loss
- Rate is affected by light intensity, temperature, humidity, and wind
Factors Affecting Rate:
Light increases stomatal opening. Wind increases evaporation rate. High humidity decreases the transpiration rate as the concentration gradient is reduced.