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Botany Science Fair Project

DC Electricity and Radish Growth

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DC Electricity and Radish Growth | Science Fair Projects | STEM Projects
Does running a small electric current through soil help plants grow faster? Some research suggests that electrical stimulation can boost plant growth. A simple 9-volt battery and two copper rods can put this idea to the test. You plant radish seeds in two pots with the same soil and water. One pot gets five minutes of DC 9V electricity through the soil each day. The other grows without any current. You measure the average plant height each week for three weeks. Compare the two groups to see whether electrified soil produces taller radish plants.

Hypothesis

The hypothesis is that radish seeds induced with DC voltages will grow more quickly.

Method & Materials

You will plant radish seeds in two pots, one with an electric current and one without. You will measure the height of the plants and compare the results.
You will need a packet of radish seeds, two plastic pots, two copper rods, soil, a DC 9V battery, a pair of crocodile clips, tap water, and a ruler.

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Results

The results showed that the average height of the radish plant in the pot with the electrical stimulation was taller than the radish plants in the pot without. This proves that the hypothesis is true.

Why do this project?

This science project is interesting because it shows how electricity can be used to enhance plant growth.

Also Consider

Consider repeating the experiment by comparing the growth rate using different voltages like DC6V or DC12V. You can also try changing the length of time of exposure to the DC current and compare the plant growth.

Full project details

Additional information and source material for this project are available below.

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