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9 Transpiration and
factors affecting it
Learning outcomes
Students should be able to understand the following:
Why transpiration occurs
What factors affect the rate of transpiration
How to measure the transpiration rate
Class Practical
Estimating the rate of transpiration from a plant cutting
• Set up the cuttings and record the starting volume and
mass for each one
• Make a second set of readings and answer questions in
the next lesson
Measuring uptake of water
Transpiration can be measured using a potometer.
A cut plant stem is sealed into the
potometer using a rubber bung.
An air bubble is introduced
to the capillary tube.
The distance the bubble
travels shows how much
water the stem has taken up.