Science project
Colored Light and Chlorophyll
How do green plants become green? They actually use light to create a pigment called chlorophyll, which gives them their green color. But which wavelengths of light allow them to create chlorophyll? Find out using this experiment.
Problem:
Which wavelengths of light most effectively produce chlorophyll?
Materials:
- Cellophane in different colors, or thin plastic sheets and colored markers
- Scissors
- Black construction paper
- Clear tape
- Green plant with many leaves
Procedure:
- Cut out 6 one-inch squares from each color of cellophane. To make your own “colored cellophane,” just color thin sheets of plastic (such as those used for transparencies) with different colors of permanent markers.
- Cut out 6 one-inch squares from the black construction paper.
- Take two squares of the same color, and tape together three of the edges to make a sort of bag.
- Slip the bag over one of the leaves on the plant, and tape together the fourth side.
- Repeat this process with the rest of the squares, distributing the colors as evenly as possible over the entire plant.
- Leave the plant near a window for a week. Rotate the plant each day so that the leaves get similar amounts of sunlight.
- Carefully remove the bags from the leaves, taking data about the leaf’s color as you remove each one. (You can use a chart, similar to the one below, to take your data.) Make sure not to lose track of which bag each leaf had on it.
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Education.com provides the Science Fair Project Ideas for informational purposes only. Education.com does not make any guarantee or representation regarding the Science Fair Project Ideas and is not responsible or liable for any loss or damage, directly or indirectly, caused by your use of such information. By accessing the Science Fair Project Ideas, you waive and renounce any claims against Education.com that arise thereof. In addition, your access to Education.com's website and Science Fair Project Ideas is covered by Education.com's Privacy Policy and site Terms of Use, which include limitations on Education.com's liability.
Warning is hereby given that not all Project Ideas are appropriate for all individuals or in all circumstances. Implementation of any Science Project Idea should be undertaken only in appropriate settings and with appropriate parental or other supervision. Reading and following the safety precautions of all materials used in a project is the sole responsibility of each individual. For further information, consult your state's handbook of Science Safety.
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