Derive analytical solution for β from energy balance theory
Applied implicit differentiation to the leaf energy balance equation to derive an exact analytical solution for β, eliminating the need for numerical approximation and yielding β = ω₁/ω₂ where ω₁ and ω₂ are complex functions of trait and microenvironment variables
Quantities: Single theoretical equation with multiple parameter termsDuration: Theoretical derivation - not time-boundConditions: Mathematical analysis under various limiting cases
Equipment: mathematical software (Mathematica), R statistical software
Explore limiting cases and covariances
Analyzed simplified versions of the full equation under limiting cases such as zero covariances between model variables, high/low stomatal conductance, and varying convective resistance to understand the biological drivers of β variation
Quantities: Multiple limiting case scenarios analyzedDuration: Theoretical analysis - not time-boundConditions: Various parameter combinations representing different biological scenarios
Equipment: mathematical software for equation manipulation
Generate numerical predictions and visualizations
Created contour plots and thermal operating space diagrams to visualize how β varies with changes in key parameters like stomatal conductance, convective resistance, and environmental variables using central parameter values from Table 1
Quantities: Multiple parameter combinations across biologically relevant rangesDuration: Computational analysis - not time-boundConditions: Central parameter values representing medium-sized hypostomatous leaf in midday sun with light wind