Learning Lesson: Leaf it to Me
OBJECTIVE | Observe the effect of transpiration as water is moved from the ground to the atmosphere. |
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OVERVIEW | Using clear plastic bags you will water from a bush or tree. |
TOTAL TIME | 2-6 hours. |
SUPPLIES | One large clear plastic bag. Large rock. |
PRINTED/AV MATERIAL | None. |
TEACHER PREPARATION | Warm sunny days will lead to better results so you may need to plan the activity around the weather. |
SAFETY FOCUS | Summer safety rules. |
There are two methods water moves from the ground to the atmosphere as part of the hydrologic cycle. Transpiration is basically evaporation of water from plant leaves. Studies have revealed that transpiration accounts for about 10% of the the moisture in the atmosphere, with oceans, seas, and other bodies of water (lakes, rivers, streams) providing nearly all of the remaining amount.
- Place a large plastic bag over a living limb of a tree or large bush. (The limb should not touch the ground.)
- Tie the open end of the bag around the tree or bush. Make sure there are no air leaks.
- At the closed end of the bag, tie a rock to the bag so the bag is weighted and forms a collection point for the water.
- After a predetermined time (at least 2 hours after "bagging" the branch), poke a hole in the bag and collect and measure the water. Then remove the bag from the branch.
Plant transpiration is generally an invisible process as the water from the exiting the leaves evaporates quickly. The temperature inside the bag will increase with heating from the sun. However, the water vapor will condense back into water as it comes in contact with bag and begin to collect at the bottom.
During a growing season, a leaf will transpire many times more water than its own weight. An acre of corn gives off about 3,000-4,000 gallons (11,400-15,100 liters) of water each day, and a large oak tree can transpire 40,000 gallons (151,000 liters) per year.
The amount of water that plants transpire varies greatly geographically and over time. There are a number of factors that determine transpiration rates:
- Transpiration rates go up as the temperature goes up, especially during the growing season, when the air is warmer due to stronger sunlight and warmer air masses.
- As the relative humidity of the air surrounding the plant rises the transpiration rate falls. It is easier for water to evaporate into dryer air than into more saturated air.
- Increased movement of the air around a plant will result in a higher transpiration rate. If there is no wind, the air around the leaf may not move very much, raising the humidity of the air around the leaf. The moving air result that the more saturated air close to the leaf is replaced by drier air.
- Plants transpire water at different rates. Some plants which grow in arid regions, such as cacti and succulents, transpire less water than other plants as a measure to conserve water.
While the water may have a bitter or harsh taste (depending on the type of tree selected) it is safe to drink and can provide much needed drinking water in survival situations.
Summer Safety Rules
Drink plenty of water and natural juices, even if you don't feel thirsty. Even under moderately strenuous outdoor activity, the rate your body can absorb fluids is less than the rate it loses water due to perspiration. However, if you have epilepsy or heart, kidney, or liver disease; are on fluid-restrictive diets; or have a problem with fluid retention should consult a doctor before increasing liquid intake.
During times of excessive heat stay indoors as much as possible. Spend time in an air conditioned space. Only two hours a day in an air-conditioned space can significantly reduce the risk of heat-related illness. Shopping Malls offer relief if your home is not air-conditioned. If air conditioning is not available, stay on the lowest floor out of the sunshine. Remember, electric fans do not cool, they just blow hot air around.
Wear loose-fitting clothes that cover as much skin as possible. Lightweight, light-colored clothing that reflects heat and sunlight and helps maintain normal body temperature. Protect face and head by wearing a wide-brimmed hat. Avoid too much sunshine. Sunburn slows the skin's ability to cool itself. Use a sun screen lotion with a high SPF (sun protection factor) rating.