Science Buddies: "Ask an Expert"

my science project is testing how different species of leaves effect the pH of vernal pools. I have some research, but i don't know what else i might need to research. I have have information on the different species of leaves I'm using, pH, vernal pools, and leaf structure. any ideas on what else i could need to know?
Thanks

Hi,
There isn't a set answer to that, but I would definitely try to find sources that relate your keyterms to each other. For instance, perhaps you can find a source on the pH of vernal pools or the relationship between different leaves and their pH or different leaves and vernal pools. Always try to figure out what has been done in the past by other scientists regarding your project - I find this very helpful when doing background research. Good luck!

Hi,

This sounds like a great project. Staryl13 has given you the best advice to find out what has been done on the subject before you design your experiment. There are several project ideas related to your idea on the science buddies website:

Here is a project on the effect of pH on soil

https://www.sciencebuddies.org/science- ... p013.shtml

This project uses conductance to evaluate water quality:

https://www.sciencebuddies.org/science- ... p011.shtml

Here’s a general one on water quality testing:

https://www.sciencebuddies.org/science- ... p024.shtml

I recommend that you do some more background reading. There seems to be lots of information on the effect of pH on plant growth, but not as much information available on the effect of plants on the pH, so your topic is really unique.

Donna Hardy