Outline4 marksStandard
A student investigates the respiratory quotient (RQ) of germinating pea seeds using a simple respirometer. The respirometer consists of a sealed glass tube containing the seeds, with a capillary tube attached containing a coloured liquid marker. Soda lime is placed in the tube to absorb carbon dioxide. The apparatus is placed in a water bath at constant temperature.
Outline how the student could use this respirometer, together with a second respirometer without soda lime, to determine the RQ of the seeds.