Science Buddies: "Ask an Expert"

I have a student using bioluminescent bacteria to detect heavy metal contamination in water. We have a Vernier light sensor and a tiny circuits light meter, but neither one is picking up light from any of our bacteria ... stock or in the contaminated waters. We subcultured the bacteria, so we know it is alive and properly reproducing. Does anyone know why we can't seem to pick up light readings?

Hello,
Bioluminescent bacteria work best when held against UV light. This could be part of the reason you are not seeing their bioluminescence. I would recommend holding them against a UV light.
Hope this helps!