Related Links
Project Summary
| Difficulty | 5 |
| Time required | Average (about one week) |
| Prerequisites | Lab access required |
| Material Availability | Readily available |
| Cost | Low ($20 - $50) |
|
|
Donate to Science Buddies
|
Internet Safety Tips |
| Get educated about online safety with help from Symantec. symantec.com/norton/familyresources |
Abstract
This elegant project employs a scientific approach that is particularly valuable in Environmental Science, but can be applied to other areas as well. The approach has three steps: 1) from your observations in the field, form a hypothesis; 2) create a simplified model system to test your hypothesis; 3) repeat your experiment in the field (taking into account what you learned from your model). The third step "closes the loop" and helps you to see if your initial conclusions from your simplified system are valid in the real world. Take a look at the project and see how it was done.Objective
The purpose of this project is to determine if artificial light has an effect on the migration pattern of Daphnia in a simple laboratory experiment, in a simulation of a pond habitat, and in their natural pond environment.
Experimental Procedure
The experiment had to be done in two phases. First, the Daphnia's natural migration pattern was observed. Then the effect of artificial light on these patterns was studied and compared to the original migration pattern. Daphnia were observed in test tubes and then in 3-foot columns of water and in their natural pond environment during the day and at night. Five different artificial light sources were introduced and the Daphnia were observed.
Variations
- For more science project ideas in this area of science, see Environmental Science Project Ideas.
Credits
Dana A. Feeny
Last edit date: 2005-08-31 13:41:43
Career Focus
If you like this project, you might enjoy exploring careers in Environmental Science.
 |
Natural Sciences Manager Some of the biggest questions in science—like how to cure cancers or how to control global warming—require large teams of scientists to answer. Natural sciences managers work to coordinate and direct the research of these teams to ensure collaboration among the scientists and effective use of equipment and resources. |
 |
Park Ranger Park rangers are the law enforcement officials of our state and national parks. They protect and preserve parklands, keeping park resources safe from people who might try to damage them, deliberately or through neglect, and keeping people safe from dangers within the park. To achieve this goal, park rangers work in a wide variety of positions, including education and interpretation for park visitors, emergency dispatch, firefighting, maintenance, law enforcement, search and rescue, and administration. There is a large global shortage of park rangers in developing countries. | |
|
Join Science Buddies
Become a Science Buddies member! It's free! As a member you will be the first to receive our new and innovative project ideas, news about upcoming science competitions, science fair tips, and information on other science related initiatives.
Support Science Buddies
If this website has helped you, won't you consider a small gift so we may continue developing resources to help teachers and students?
|
