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Photosynthesis Experiment

Age Group

10-14 years old

Difficulty Level

Moderate

Duration

1-2 hours

What You'll Need

  • Elodea or spinach leaves

  • Clear plastic cups or beakers

  • Water

  • Light source (e.g., lamp or sunlight)

  • Carbon dioxide source (e.g., baking soda and vinegar solution)

  • Thermometer

  • Timer or clock

  • Ruler or measuring tape

  • Safety goggles (optional)

What Will You Learn?

The purpose of this experiment is to investigate the factors that affect photosynthesis in plants and to deepen understanding of this essential biological process.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation: Fill the plastic cups or beakers with water and set them aside. Prepare the carbon dioxide source by mixing baking soda and vinegar in a separate container. Set up the light source in a well-lit area.


  1. Setup: Place an Elodea or spinach leaf in each cup or beaker filled with water. Ensure that the leaves are fully submerged.

  2. Light Intensity: Place one cup near the light source and another cup in a shaded area. Observe and record any differences in the rate of oxygen bubble production.

  3. Carbon Dioxide Levels: Add a few drops of the carbon dioxide source to one cup while leaving the other cup untreated. Compare the rate of oxygen bubble production between the two cups.

  4. Temperature: Use a thermometer to measure the temperature of the water in each cup. Place one cup in a warm location and another cup in a cooler location. Monitor the rate of oxygen bubble production and record any differences.

  5. Observation: Use a timer to observe the cups at regular intervals (e.g., every 5 minutes) and note any changes in the rate of oxygen bubble production.

  6. Data Collection: Measure the size of the oxygen bubbles using a ruler or measuring tape. Record your observations in a table or chart.

  7. Analysis: Analyze your data to determine how light intensity, carbon dioxide levels, and temperature affect the rate of photosynthesis in plants.

Safety First!

  • Handle glassware and chemicals with care to avoid accidents or spills.

  • Use safety goggles when working with potentially hazardous materials.

  • Ensure that the light source is not too close to the plants to prevent overheating.

Watch The Experiment

Results Gallery

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FAQs

  • Why do we add baking soda to the water?Baking soda increases the concentration of carbon dioxide in water, providing more of the raw material needed for photosynthesis.

  • What do the bubbles indicate?The bubbles are oxygen, which is a byproduct of photosynthesis when plants convert carbon dioxide and water into glucose and oxygen.

  • Can this experiment be performed with terrestrial plants?Yes, but it's harder to observe oxygen bubbles as they are not as easily visible as with aquatic plants.

Download Your Experiment Guide

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Tags

Photosynthesis, Plant Biology, Biology Experiment, Science Activity, STEM Education, Children's Science Experiment, Environmental Science

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