The Effects of Acid Rain on the Germination of Seeds - To test
the effects of acid rain on organisms. - To test air samples for
sulfur dioxide. - To relate the test results to the Copper Basin
issues. - Petri dishes - Graph paper - Wax pencil - Water
solutions, pH 2-7 - Paper towels - Seeds (radishes germinate
quickly) Optional materials: Air sampling pump, Sulfur Dioxide
Test Kit - One of the issues in the Copper Basin is acid rain
that is caused by the formation of sulfur dioxide in the
roasting and smelting processes. This has long term effects on
the environment and impacts the land for years. Students
developed a simple experiment to test the effect of an acidic
solution on the germination of seeds. They originally wanted to
test the effects on plants used in revegetation efforts, but did
not have the time necessary to see any visible effects. They
were able to apply the results they observed in other instances
in which acid rain or acid solutions get into the soil. - Radish
seeds were placed into petri