13 Runoff and algae

Experiment: The effect of runoff on algae growth

Compare the growth rate of algae in water with different nutrient levels.

Run a controlled experiment with algae cultures, varying the nutrients. Use a common plant fertilizer and compare to normal nutrients. Compare the growth rate by observing the color of the water.

Time: TBD

Level: Advanced

EXPERIMENT IS IN DEVELOPMENT

Materials

normal nutrients, Miracle Gro (excess nutrients)

Specifics and purchasing links are on this spreadsheet Materials list for CCSAE experiments

Draw your own conclusion (open this box to see our suggestions)

Suggestion:

The algae cultures that were given Miracle Gro got greener

Identify the physical, chemical or biological mechanism that is happening (open this box after you have an idea)

The mechanism is runoff carrying excess nutrients to algae

Runoff is surface water that cannot be absorbed by the ground and runs into sewers or waterways. hat runs from rads into Intense rainfall and droughts lead to increased runoff

Relate this mechanism to climate change

Find the arrow (→) in the framework that represents this mechanism (starts at the cause phenomenon and goes to the effect phenomenon). (Use your printed copy of the framework, or open the appropriate framework below.

Pathway for Harmful Algal Blooms.pdf

Open this box to check your connection.

Then go to the Explainer pages to learn more about the Cause and Effect phenomena

Connection 13

Cause: Extreme weather

What is happening: increased runoff from storms carries nutrients to watersheds

Effect: Harmful algal blooms

We’d love to hear how you used this tool in your community, how the students responded, and your suggestions to improve the experiments and other resources. Contact us at ccsae@mit.edu.