Science Fair Projects
biologyeasy elementary 14 days

Leafy Labyrinth: Plant Maze Challenge

This project involves creating a simple maze to observe how plants grow and navigate towards light, demonstrating phototropism in action.

Leafy Labyrinth: Plant Maze Challenge

Hypothesis

If a plant is placed in a maze with a single light source, then it will grow towards the light source.

Materials Needed

Shoe boxes — 3Buy
Bean seeds — 10Buy
Potting soil — 1Buy
Plastic cups — 10Buy
Aluminum foil — 1Buy
Lamp — 1Buy
Scissors — 1Buy

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Step-by-Step Procedure

  1. 1

    Step 1: Fill plastic cups with potting soil and plant one seed in each.

  2. 2

    Step 2: Cut openings in the shoe boxes to create a maze pathway.

  3. 3

    Step 3: Line the inside of the boxes with aluminum foil to reflect light.

  4. 4

    Step 4: Place the planted cups at the start of each maze.

  5. 5

    Step 5: Position a lamp at the maze exit.

  6. 6

    Step 6: Turn on the lamp for 6 hours daily, ensuring consistent light.

  7. 7

    Step 7: Observe and document plant growth daily.

  8. 8

    Step 8: After two weeks, assess how many plants reached the maze exit.

Expected Results

Plants are likely to grow towards the light source, demonstrating phototropism as they navigate through the maze.

Variables

Independent Variable

Light source position

Dependent Variable

Growth direction of the plants

Controlled Variables

Type of plant, Watering schedule, Soil type

Safety Notes

Ensure the lamp does not overheat and cause a fire hazard.

Presentation Tips

  • Create a video of the plants growing through the maze.

  • Use diagrams to explain phototropism.

  • Show a time-lapse of daily plant growth.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is phototropism?

Phototropism is the growth of a plant in response to light direction.

Why use aluminum foil?

Aluminum foil reflects light, directing it through the maze.

How can I make the maze more challenging?

Try adding more turns or covering parts to block light.

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