What is used to measure the rate of photosynthesis?

Answer 1

Special equipment exists for measuring the rate of photosynthesis. For precise and accurate measurements, use a Photosynthesis Measurement System. They quantitatively measure the rate using an infrared gas analyser to assess the input of CO2 and output of H2O. Some Photosynthesis Measurement Systems (e.g. the LCpro+) can precisely control the environment of the leaf. The user can select the exact concentrations of CO2 and H2O, and can control PAR and temperature, so can investigate the effects of different conditions on the rate of photosynthesis.

Some Photosynthesis Systems are portable so you can carry them to field sites (but some are somewhat heavy for field work. LI-6400 model weighs 13.5kg)

Alternatively, you can assess photosynthetic rate by measuring the volume of gas produced by an aquatic plant. This is perfect for investigating the rate of photosynthesis if you have limited resources, don't need high levels of accuracy, and don't care which species of plant you study.
To do this experiment; Cut the stem of an Elodea plant diagonally. Put it in a small graduated cylinder full of water without introducing any bubbles. Invert the cylinder into a beaker full of water with the top covered so no air gets in. Place the beaker in light. Either count the number of bubbles produced, or leave the experiment for a long time and measure the volume of gas produced. Since bubbles have a variable, undefined volume, counting the number of air bubbles is not precise.

Answer 2

ANSWER 1

You can use a few things to measure the rate of photosynthesis. CO2 levels, Oxygen levels, are the most common. U can place a plant in a secure container and measure the drop in Co2 levels or the rise in O2 levels. the drop in CO2 levels shows photosynthesis because it is needed for photosynthesis to occur and the rise of oxygen levels because oxygen in a by-product of photosynthesis so the rise in the O2 concentration levels can tell you the rate of photosynthesis.

ANSWER 2

Hi photosynthesis-measurer,

The above answer is correct to state that a number of different parameters can be used to assess the rate of photosynthesis. In theory, the rate of photosynthesis can be quantified by measuring any of the inputs to the reaction (light and CO2) or any of the outputs (oxygen and carbon compounds). The input of water cannot estimate photosynthetic rate, since it is also used in transpiration. The parameter that you chose to measure depends on your resources and the accuracy required of your estimates.

There are instruments that measure the input of CO2 and output of H2O, called Photosynthesis Measurement Systems. They use an infrared gas analyser, and are precise and accurate.

Look up the scientific papers that are referenced on the Wikipedia page to see which Photosynthesis Systems have been used to study the rate of photosynthesis;

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Photosynthesis_system

Photosynthetic rate can be estimated by measuring the rate that O2 is released because oxygen is one of the products of photosynthesis. Experiments where you count the air bubbles produced by an aquatic plant are perfect if you have limited resources and only need rough estimates. However, since bubbles have a variable, undefined volume, this method is not precise.

Answer 3

The equation for photosynthesis is CO2 plus H2O which equals glucose plus O2. The more that photosynthesis occurs the more oxygen that is being produced.

Answer 4

The DPIP changes from blue to clear which indicates photosynthesis is taking place. The rate at which the DPIP turns from blue to clear is the rate at which photosynthesis occurs

Answer 5

Oxygen is produced by "splitting" water in the PS II complex

Answer 6

oxygen is released during photosynthesis