Respiration Calorimeters for Studying the Respiratory Exchange and Energy Transformations of Man

by Francis Gano Benedict

"Respiration Calorimeters for Studying the Respiratory Exchange and Energy Transformations of Man" by Francis G. Benedict and Thorne M. Carpenter is a scientific publication written in the early 20th century. This work focuses on the design and functionality of respiration calorimeters used for experimental studies in human metabolism and energy transformation. It serves as a detailed account of the apparatus employed in the Nutrition Laboratory and provides extensive descriptions of various components and methodologies used in measuring respiration and calorimetry. At the start of the text, the authors introduce the need for specialized apparatus to aid in the study of metabolism and respiration, which led to the establishment of a dedicated laboratory in Boston. They express gratitude to contributors and outline the purpose of the publication as a means to document the calorimeters currently in use. Key features of the calorimeter are introduced, including its construction and the precise controls related to temperature and air circulation for accurate measurements. The opening details are foundational and set the tone for a comprehensive exploration of nutritional science, aiming for high precision in calorimetric and respiratory research methodologies.