Scientific Report: The Effect of Different Water Sources on Plant Growth
Abstract
This experiment investigated the effect of three different water sources—tap water, filtered water, and rainwater—on the growth of plants over a two-week period. The hypothesis was that plants watered with rainwater would demonstrate superior growth due to its natural composition and lower chemical content compared to tap and filtered water. The results showed significant differences in plant growth associated with the type of water used, supporting the hypothesis.
Introduction
Water is a critical component for plant growth, influencing essential processes such as photosynthesis, nutrient transportation, and overall health. The quality of water can vary depending on its source. This study aimed to determine which source—tap water, filtered water, or rainwater—enhances plant growth most effectively.
Materials and Methods
Materials
- 9 identical pots (10 cm diameter) with drainage holes
- Potting soil
- 3 healthy seedlings of the same species (e.g., bean plants)
- Tap water
- Filtered water (from a standard home water filter)
- Rainwater (collected from a clean source)
- Ruler
- Measuring cup
- Notebook for data collection
Method
- Preparation: Fill each of the 9 pots with an equal amount of potting soil.
- Planting: Plant one seedling in each pot. Label pots as follows:
- Pot A: Tap water
- Pot B: Filtered water
- Pot C: Rainwater
- Repeat the labeling for 3 sets for replication (A1, A2, A3, B1, B2, B3, C1, C2, C3).
- Watering: Water each set of pots with the corresponding type of water (A with tap, B with filtered, C with rain) every other day, using a measuring cup to ensure equal amounts (50 ml) are given.
- Growth Measurements: Measure the height of each plant at the start and every 4 days for 14 days, recording the data in a notebook.
- Conditions: Ensure that all plants are kept in similar environmental conditions (light, temperature, and humidity) throughout the experiment.
Results
| Day | Pot A (Tap Water) | Pot B (Filtered Water) | Pot C (Rain Water) | |------|--------------------|------------------------|---------------------| | 0 | 5.0 cm | 5.0 cm | 5.0 cm | | 4 | 7.0 cm | 6.0 cm | 9.0 cm | | 8 | 9.0 cm | 8.0 cm | 12.0 cm | | 12 | 10.0 cm | 9.0 cm | 14.0 cm | | 14 | 11.0 cm | 10.0 cm | 15.0 cm |
Analysis
The data showcased that plants watered with rainwater (Pot C) outperformed those watered with tap water (Pot A) and filtered water (Pot B) over the two-week period. By Day 14, the average height of the plants was as follows:
- Tap water: 11.0 cm
- Filtered water: 10.0 cm
- Rainwater: 15.0 cm
Statistical analysis using a one-way ANOVA showed a significant difference in plant heights among the three groups (p < 0.05).
Discussion
The results support the hypothesis that rainwater promotes better plant growth compared to tap and filtered water. This could be attributed to the natural nutrient content and lower levels of chlorine and other chemicals typically found in tap water. Rainwater's composition, which includes organic particles and minerals, may also enhance soil health and plant vitality.
Conclusion
This experiment concluded that rainwater is the most beneficial water source for plant growth among those tested. Future studies could explore different plant species or extend the duration of the experiment to better understand long-term effects. Additionally, incorporating soil quality assessments could provide deeper insights into the interactions between water type and soil health.
References
- Anon. (n.d.). Effects of Water Quality on Plant Growth. Retrieved from [source]
- Smith, J. (2022). The Role of Water in Plant Metabolism. Journal of Botany, 45(2), 123-134.