What are Effects of Light on Seed Germination and Growth?
Collect three clear plastic food containers with clear lids, the type used at deli counters. Find two identical shoeboxes or other boxes with lids that are big enough to hold the clear containers. Color the insides of both boxes black, or cover the insides with black paper. Students will also need about 60 seeds. Large seeds like corn or beans are easiest to monitor and measure results. Other supplies needed are white paper, scissors, tape, paper towels, water and a measuring cup. Cut three or four small holes in the sides of one of the boxes. Cover the holes by taping pieces of the white paper over them. This allows only indirect light to enter the box. The second box has no holes and will be lightproof. Place one folded paper towel in the bottom of each of the three clear containers. Pour exactly the same amount of water into each container so the paper towel is completely saturated and about 1/2 inch of water is above the paper towel. Count the same number of seeds for each containe
