Plant Growth and Soils
Several scientists stated that plant growth would be similar regardless of the soil type. Students in Ms. Gray’s class performed an experiment to verify this statement. They used plants of the same species and size at the start of their experiment. All variables were controlled except for soil type. Their data is shown in the table.
Plant Soil type Characteristics Results
Plant 1 Sand Large particle size does not allow the soil to retain much water Minimal growth
Plant 2 Clay Small particle size allows water retention, aeration is poor Average growth
Plant 3 Loam Medium particle size allows water retention, aeration is good Highest growth
Based on the student data, was the scientists' statement correct? Explain.
Responses
A Yes. It is particle size that determines the growth rate of the plants.Yes. It is particle size that determines the growth rate of the plants.
B Yes. Student data was inconclusive because they only grew three plants.Yes. Student data was inconclusive because they only grew three plants.
C No. Student observations determined that plants grew best in the sandy soil.No. Student observations determined that plants grew best in the sandy soil.
D No. Student observations noted differences in growth for the three soil types.
D No. Student observations noted differences in growth for the three soil types.
The student data clearly shows that plant growth varied depending on the soil type. Plant 3, which was grown in loam soil, had the highest growth, while plant 1, grown in sand soil, had minimal growth. This indicates that soil type does have an impact on plant growth, contrary to what the scientists initially stated.