Question

directions: review the experiment below using the reading protocol and then identify the components of the scientific method by completing the graphic organizer provided. experimental scenario #1 a student investigated the effect of radiation on the germination of bean seeds. he thought that exposure to radiation would limit the seeds ability to germinate (grow) much like ultra - violet light causing skin cancer. three hundred seeds were soaked in distilled water for one hour. they were then divided into three groups. one group was placed in a microwave oven on high for three seconds. another group was microwaved on high for six seconds. the last group was not microwaved. the seeds were then planted in three separate flats and given the same amount of water. the flats were placed in a location with a constant temperature of approximately 27 degrees celsius. each day for two weeks the number of seeds that germinated each group was recorded. total number of bean seeds germinated after microwave radiation three seconds of radiation 54 six seconds of radiation 26 no radiation 88 problem/observation: question: hypothesis: experiment: independent variable dependent variable controlled variable control group experimental group(s)

Explanation:

• Problem/Observation: Student noticed possible link between radiation and seed - germination like UV - light and skin cancer.
• Question: Does radiation limit the ability of bean seeds to germinate?
• Hypothesis: Exposure to radiation will limit the seeds' ability to germinate.
• Experiment: 300 seeds soaked, divided into 3 groups with different radiation exposures (3 - second, 6 - second, none), planted in flats with same water and temperature, and germination recorded for two weeks.
• Independent Variable: Amount of microwave radiation (3 seconds, 6 seconds, 0 seconds).
• Dependent Variable: Number of germinated bean seeds.
• Controlled Variables: Soaking time in distilled water (1 hour), amount of water given, temperature (approx. 27°C), type of seeds.
• Control Group: Seeds with no radiation exposure.
• Experimental Groups: Seeds microwaved for 3 seconds and seeds microwaved for 6 seconds.

Answer:

Problem/Observation: Student thought radiation might affect seed - germination like UV - light affects skin cancer.
Question: Does radiation limit bean - seed germination?
Hypothesis: Radiation exposure limits seed germination.
Experiment: Soaked 300 seeds, divided into 3 radiation - exposed groups, planted with same water and temperature, recorded germination.
Independent Variable: Microwave radiation amount (3s, 6s, 0s).
Dependent Variable: Number of germinated seeds.
Controlled Variables: Soaking time, water amount, temperature, seed type.
Control Group: Seeds with no radiation.
Experimental Groups: Seeds microwaved for 3s and 6s.