Measurement of Rates of Aerobic Respiration and Photosynthesis in Terrestrial Plant Leaves Using Oxygen Sensors and Data Loggers

 

Tested Studies in Laboratory Teaching, 2013, Volume 34

William V. Glider & Peter Thew

Abstract

The relationship between aerobic respiration and photosynthesis in plants is a basic biological concept which is often difficult for students to master. This exercise uses terrestrial plant leaves to measure the rate of photosynthesis at different light intensities and wavelengths as well as the rate of aerobic respiration rates of the leaves in the dark. This makes it possible to calculate gross and net photosynthesis and the light compensation point. The exercise employs the Vernier ™ oxygen sensor, Lab Pro data logger, and Logger Pro 3 software linked to a computer for data collection and analysis.

Keywords:  photosynthesis, plants, aerobic respiration, leaves, sage leaves, oxygen sensor

University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill (2012)