Seed Growth (Dennis Yong)

Research Question and Hypothesis

What is the effect of light on the germination of Lima beans?

Standards

  • Use mathematical and/or computational representations to support explanations of factors that affect carrying capacity of ecosystems at different scales. HS-LS2-1

  • Evaluate the claims, evidence, and reasoning that the complex interactions in ecosystems maintain relatively consistent numbers and types of organisms in stable conditions, but changing conditions may result in a new ecosystem. HS-LS2-6

Students will vary the amount of light exposed to the Lima beans from different bags.

Independent variable

Light

Dependent variables

Experimental Design

The dependent variable is the length of the germination (stalk growth)

Series

The series that will be tested here is the amount of light exposed to the beans. The length of the stalk of the Lima bean (dependent variable) as a function of light (independent variable) for 10-day period.

Constants and Controls

Constants/Controls: the amount of water provided to each bag, same type of seed, same plastic bag container

Materials

-Lima beans

-ziplog bag/stapler

-paper towel

-water

Procedures

1) Put 4 Lima bean seeds per bag. Label each bag (#1,2,3)

2) Staple across the ziplog bag so that the seeds would not be submerged in excess water. Fold the paper towel and lay it to the bottom of the bag next to the staples line.

3) Spread out the seeds. Pour water into the bag. Take pictures every two days.

Sample data and graphs

Analysis & Conclusions

Looking at the length of the stalk from each bag, what would you conclude would be the effect of light on the germination of Lima beans.

Photos & Movies

Lima Bean Germination