What is a potometer?

A potometer is a scientific instrument used to measure the rate of water uptake by a plant. It consists of a chamber filled with water, with a plant stem inserted into it. The rate of water uptake is determined by measuring the movement of a bubble of air through a graduated capillary tube attached to the chamber. As the plant takes up water, the bubble moves along the capillary tube, allowing researchers to calculate the rate of water uptake per unit time. Potometers are commonly used in studies of plant physiology to understand factors influencing transpiration and water transport within plants.