The Potometer

A potometer is a device that measures the rate at which a plant draws up water. Since the plant draws up water as it loses it by transpiration, you are able to measure the rate of transpiration. The basic elements of a potometer are:

•	A plant cutting
•	A calibrated pipette to measure water loss
•	A length of clear plastic tubing
•	An air-tight seal between the plant and the water-filled tubing

Your instructor will show you how to assemble your potometer.