The LI-6200 portable photosynthesis system and plant water status console will be used to study whole plant function in the laboratory, greenhouse, growth chambers, and in the field. The equipment will be used primarily in the Plant Physiology and Ecology courses. Previously, basic principles of stomatal function, photosynthesis, and water relations were taught using plant parts and traditional techniques. Now, using the recently developed technology, students will be able to extend the principles from those simple systems to growing plants. They will design and conduct experiments enabling them to observe effects of plant growth regulators, temperature, soil moisture, and nutrient availability on whole plant function. The college will provide 50% matching funds.
