Observing Transpiration and Capillary Action

Aim: To observe xylem tissue and prove that they transport water up the plant.

Equipment: One stick of celery with the leaves still attached, a retort stand, boss head and clamp, a petri dish, water, food colouring, a knife or scalpel.

Method:

1. Make a cut across the base of the celery stalk to expose a new section of the stem.

2. Fill the petri dish with water and add a few drops of food colouring.

3. Place the celery stalk in the petri dish and gently clamp it in place using the retort stand, boos head and clamp.

4. Leave the stalk undisturbed for 24 hours.

5. Remove the stalk from the clam and petri dish. Cut the stem about1/3 of the way up the stem.