To effectively test the hypothesis that increased sunlight will accelerate the growth of an avocado tree, the student should focus on a methodical experimental approach. The most suitable option from the provided choices is:
Compare the growth rates of avocado trees exposed to varying amounts of sunlight over several weeks.
Here's how the student could set up the experiment:
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Experimental Design:
- Select a group of avocado trees that are similar in size and age to ensure consistency.
- Divide the trees into several groups, with each group receiving different amounts of sunlight (e.g., full sun, partial shade, full shade).
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Control Variables:
- Keep other factors constant, such as soil type, water frequency, and fertilization, so that any differences in growth can be attributed to sunlight exposure.
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Data Collection:
- Measure the height of each tree at the start of the experiment to establish a baseline.
- Continue to measure the height of each tree at regular intervals (e.g., weekly) over a predetermined duration (e.g., 4-8 weeks).
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Analysis:
- After collecting the growth data, analyze the results to compare the growth rates of the trees in different sunlight conditions.
- Use statistical methods to evaluate the significance of the results.
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Conclusion:
- Draw conclusions based on the growth data collected, determining whether increased sunlight correlates positively with accelerated growth in the avocado trees.
While recording temperature and humidity can provide useful background information, measuring height after just one day is insufficient to assess the long-term effects of sunlight on growth. Reading articles may provide insights, but it does not constitute an experimental test of the hypothesis. Therefore, comparing growth rates over several weeks is the best approach to empirically test the hypothesis.