The Photosynthesis Process and the Importance of Leaves

Difficulty of Project

Medium

Cost

$15-20 per student

Safety Issues

N/A 

Material Availability

Easy; materials can be easily obtained

Approximate Time Required to Complete the Project (Including analysis and write-up)

2-3 weeks

Objective

What is the project about?

What are the goals?

Materials and Equipment / Ingredients

What materials are required?

• 2 small indoor potted plants (must be same size and species; the Ficus Benjamin tree is recommended for this experiment)
• Petroleum jelly (small jar)
• Water
• Area with sunlight
• Marker

Where can the materials be found?

Research Questions

• What is the basic process of photosynthesis?
• What is the role of a leaf in the process of photosynthesis?
• Describe the following: independent variable, dependent variable, constant variable, and control.

Terms, Concepts and Questions to Start Background Research

For the parent/student, what terms and concepts are required to better understand the project?

Experimental Procedure

1. First choose one plant to be the control plant, and with the marker write 'Control' on the pot container. Put this plant aside.
2. Then cover all of the leaves of the other plant with a layer of petroleum jelly. The top and underside of the leaves should be completely covered.
3. Water both plants with the same appropriate amount of water, and place next to each other in a bright, sunny area.
4. Monitor both plants for several weeks, recording the status of each plant every few days (color of leaves, new leaf growth, etc).
5. Don't forget to water the plants as appropriate; be sure to provide equal care to each plant.

Bibliography / References to related books / Links to related sites on the web