more science - yawn!

Method

In order to measure the effect of varying light conditions on the growth of bean seeds, 6 seeds were subjected to 3 differing levels of light, and their growth monitored.

Before the seeds were tested in this way, it was necessary to soak them in water for two days, and leave them on wet paper towel for a further two days. This was so that the husk of the shell became soaked and softened, allowing the first stage of germination to begin. It also allowed those seeds that did not develop to be removed from the experiment.

After the seeds had been soaked as described above they were all planted out in identical ways. Each seed was planted in a plastic cup in a standard amount of soil. There was one seed in each cup, and each seed was planted to a depth of 5cm, in accordance with the planting guidelines. As far as possible, the seeds will be exposed to the same temperature, notwithstanding the temperature variation caused by their relative exposure to light. Each seed was watered once a day, in the evening, with 15ml of water.

The seeds were exposed to three different levels of light, two seeds in each condition. Two seeds were placed in total darkness. This was achieved by coating the cup with black card, and covering the top. Holes were made in the top covering to allow air to circulate. These cups were then covered themselves and placed on a windowsill along with all the other seeds.

The second group of two seeds were placed on the same windowsill, and covered with a fabric that allowed some light onto the cup, but also offered some shade.

The third group of two seeds was placed on the same windowsill with nothing covering it. The seeds remained like this for a period of 5 weeks.

Measurements of the seeds growth were taken weekly, with care being taken to keep their exposure to light consistent week by week.