The Effects of Varying Concentrations of Used and New Motor Oil on the Germination and Growth of Lima Beans

Overview

Objectives/Goals Find the effects of varying concentration of new and used motor oil on the growth and germination of lima bean plants. Methods/Materials 7 - Packets of Lima Bean Seeds 2 - 12 Quart Organic Soil Bags 1 - Bottle New Mobil 1 Engine Oil 1 - Bottle Mobil 1 Engine Oil (after 5 months of use) A. Mix 8 containers of soil, water, and motor oil. a. 2 control groups, 3 groups of new motor oil, 3 groups of used motor oil b. In each group of 3 - 25% pollution, 50% pollution, 75% pollution c. Plant 18 seeds in each group. Give each seed equal amounts of water per day. B. Take average of total heights and every day for 3 weeks. Note total number of visible sprouts each day. Results Both the used and new motor oil had a significant effect on the plants. Both were lethal at 50% and 75% concentrations. The used motor oil hindered growth slightly more than the new. Conclusions/Discussion At a certain concentration, motor oil is lethally toxic to lima bean plants, regardless of additional effects of the chemicals in used motor oil.

Competition history

• CSEF 2009 Pharmacology (Senior Division Only) · Entry S1805

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