Science Buddies: "Ask an Expert"

The Science Fair project I am currently doing is "The Effect Varying Amounts of Light have on Algae Growth".
http://school.discoveryeducation.com/sc ... inder.html
The project has three 6-day period trials. In the first trial the fish tank should be exposed to 2 hours of light each day, in the second trial 4 hours of light each day, and in the third trial 6 hours of light each day. I have performed these procedures and algae has not grown at all. What results should be expected of these three trials, how much algae would grow following each trial?(algae is measured in sq. inches)

Hi,

This is a great science fair project. It is alright if you don't get the results you expected. When you write your summary/conclusions you should discuss the kinds of things that contribute to algae growth. What things other than light do the algae need to grow? Which of these things do you think were missing from your experimental setup? If you have enough time you could try the experiment again with different conditions. Let us know if you have any other questions.

Kierstyn