Unstable processes in the metabolic rate measurements in flow-through systems

Measurements of metabolic rate within a flow-through system generally begin only after the difference between input and output concentration has become constant. This limits the use of such a system to objects with high metabolic rates. The processes in the flow-through system were described mathematically and the differential equations obtained are analytically resolved for different situations. They can be used for the calculation of metabolic rates for any time after the onset of measurements. The flexibility of a flow-through system and its suitability for physiological and ecological measurements are significantly increased.