Provides a better snapshot measurement of the actual water p

Provides a better \"snapshot\" measurement of the actual water potential of the plant as a function of the water conditions that existed in the field at the moment the stem was cut. Explain why this is so. Imagine if. After setting up your photometer, you used a blowtorch to seal the end of the pipette trapping the air bubble inside. During transpiration, what would you expect to observe in the sealed pipette over time, and how could such a setup be used to estimate the actual tension and therefore water potential of the plant in MPa?

Solution

If the end of the pipette trapping air bubble will be sealed, then potential gradient will not be develope and hence there will be no movement in air bubble. For movement of air bubble, both end of pipette should be open and immersed in water. Hence, such a set up could not be used to estimate the actual tension and water potential.