Edexcel A-Level Biology B 9BI0
Biological Molecules
Cells, Viruses and Reproduction of Living Things
Classification and Biodiversity
Exchange and Transport
Energy for Biological Processes
Microbiology and Pathogens
Modern Genetics
Origins of Genetic Variation
Control Systems
Ecosystems
Exchange and Transport
Measuring transpiration with a potometer
- 3 things to know
- Papers 1, 2 and 3
Overview
Recall questions on setting up a potometer underwater without air bubbles, calculating the rate of water uptake from bubble movement, the variables to change and control, why uptake is not exactly transpiration, and reducing percentage error in the distance measured.
What you need to know
Answer each one before you reveal it.
What would happen to the reliability of potometer results if air bubbles were present in the capillary tube?
Why is water uptake measured by a potometer not exactly equal to transpiration?
Questions from this subtopic
Each one with the model answer underneath.
- 1
Why must the shoot be cut and assembled underwater when setting up a potometer?
Model answer
To prevent air entering the xylem, which would block water flow.
- 2
State the formula used to calculate the rate of water uptake from potometer measurements.
Model answer
Rate = distance moved by air bubble ÷ time taken.
- 3
In the formula for rate of water uptake, what does the 'distance' term represent?
Model answer
The distance moved by the air bubble along the capillary tube.
- 4
Calculate the rate of water uptake when distance moved by bubble = 43 mm, time taken = 8 min.
Model answer
Rate of water uptake = 43 ÷ 8 = 5.38 mm/min.
- 5
In a potometer experiment, how is the rate of water uptake measured?
Model answer
By recording the distance moved by an air bubble along the capillary tube over a set time period, then calculating the volume of water taken up per unit time.
- 6
How does a potometer measure the rate of water uptake?
Model answer
By tracking the movement of an air bubble along a calibrated capillary tube over time.
Other ways to work this
The same content, four other ways.
What is inside Levo
Six ways to work the same material.
Every question in Exchange and Transport, on a schedule.
Attempt a question from memory, write the correct version, then attempt it again. Levo records the jump between your first attempt and your last, and brings each question back on the day you are due to forget it.
Or £46 a year, about £3.83 a month. Cancel anytime.