An investigation of the relationship between tree water potential and dielectric constant

An experiment that has been performed to verify the relationship between the dielectric constant of several tree species and their respective water potentials is described. The water potential, xylem flow and dielectric properties of five tree species were continuously monitored while simultaneously manipulating canopy transpiration and water status. An analysis of the data recorded during these manipulations is presented. Results of this analysis demonstrate a clear coincidence of change in dielectric constant and water status. The implication of this relationship for the utilization of remotely sensed data to study canopy water relations is explored. Preliminary backscatter modeling results demonstrate that the changes in dielectric constant that occur as a result of changes in water status are significant enough to be observable with microwave radar.