Description
Grades 9-12.
- Observe and measure the population dynamics of duckweed in a closed system
- Graph the population growth and explore the differences between exponential and logistic growth
- Determine the carrying capacity of a closed system
The fast reproduction rate of duckweed makes it a perfect organism for studying population growth. Students first predict what changes will take place within a population in a closed system. After creating a closed-system environment for duckweed, students investigate their predictions by completing regular counts of the population over a 3- to 4-week period. Using the collected data students graph the population data, calculate growth rate, and determine the carrying capacity of the system.
Kit accommodates a class of up to 30 students working in pairs and includes a voucher to request perishable material later at your convenience.