Photosynthesis Lab: Elodea and Carbon Dioxide

Photosynthesis Lab: Elodea and Carbon Dioxide

In this lab titled "The Elodea Took My Breath Away!" students will be able to "see" photosynthesis in action as colors change (or don't) using Elodea, bromothymol blue, and carbon dioxide.

This is a 3 page lab with background info, materials list, clear procedure, data tables/analysis. This can also be done as a demonstration that you, the teacher, can set up beforehand to show the class if you do not have the time or materials.

Bromothymol blue is a biological indicator, it changes from blue to yellow in the presence of acid. Some materials required for this lab are Elodea, soda straws, graduated cylinders and stirring rods.

Answer key is included.

Other photosynthesis resources for you:

• Photosynthesis Notes: 20 slide PowerPoint presentation with student notes included.
• Photosynthesis Quiz (I use this as an open note but it is editable and can be used however you wish).
• Photosynthesis Practice: Great homework assignment!
• Photosynthesis and Light
• The Reactions of Photosynthesis: a 3 page summary of photosynthesis reading, coloring and labeling.
• Green Solar Cells: All About Chloroplasts!
• The Calvin Cycle: Practice all about the Calvin cycle!
• The Elodea Took My Breath Away!: Lab that observes photosynthesis (or lack thereof) in certain conditions using Elodea.
• Photosynthesis Closed Note Quiz- 18 questions (mostly matching)
• Why Leaves Change Color (The Tale of the Masked Pigments): Reading article familiarizing students with different pigments.
• Paper Chromatography Lab: Pigment Powered Plants!
• The Cells of the Leaf and Photosynthesis: Students learn about the cells of the leaf via a cut-out manipulative!
• Alotta Stomata: Students read more detail about stomata and how they can affect photosynthesis.
• Photosynthesis Task Cards
• From Sunlight to Rainbow Candy
• Photosynthesis Crossword Puzzle
• Who Wants to Be a Smarty Pants?: FUN interactive review game!
• Photosynthesis Test

Vanessa Jason ("Biology Roots")