Effect of varying amounts of water on germination rate of radish plant (Arevalo)
Research Question and Hypothesis
What is the optimum amount of water needed for a radish plant to germinate?
Standards
LS1.B: Growth and Development of Organisms:
MS-LS1-5: Construct a scientific explanation based on evidence for how environmental and genetic factors influence the growth of organisms.
[Clarification Statement: Examples of local environmental conditions could include availability of food, light, space, and water. Examples of genetic factors could include large breed cattle and species of grass affecting growth of organisms. Examples of evidence could include drought decreasing plant growth, fertilizer increasing plant growth, different varieties of plant seeds growing at different rates in different conditions, and fish growing larger in large ponds than they do in small ponds.] [Assessment Boundary: Assessment does not include genetic mechanisms, gene regulation, or biochemical processes.]
Experimental Design
Set up four planters with four seeds in each planter. Make observations daily until germination is observed in one of the cups.
Independent variable
Amount of water, measured in milliliters using a syringe.
Dependent variables
Germination rate of radish seeds, measured by visual observation.
Series
Study the rate of germination of radish seeds as a function of differing amounts of water over time.
Constants and Controls
Constants and Controls:
room temperature
lighting
type of water
type of radish seed
soil (growth medium)
containers (plastic cups)
time of day of watering
Materials
plastic cups (4)
soil
100ml beaker
50ml syringe
radish seeds (16)
plastic wrap
post-its for labeling
narrow stick with cm markings (for making holes)
Procedures
Locate area in room where planters can remain undisturbed
place 4 cups, each with similar distance to light source, etc. to keep controls/constants the same
place 100ml of soil in each up and tap cups to settle soil
make 4-1cm holes in soil of each cup using stick - spacing holes out evenly
drop 1 seed into each hole and cover holes gently with soil
cover each cup with plastic wrap to eliminate evaporation (and need to water)
take video/pictures of planters at least once a day until there is evidence of germination
Sample data and graphs
Link to data set and graphs in Google Sheets
Analysis & Conclusions
Based on the evidence and data collected, the optimum amount of water needed to germinate radish seeds in 100ml of soil is 5ml of water.
Photos & Movies
References
n/a