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Authors:
Godfrey Nowlan, GSC
Beverly Ross, Rundle College Junior High School
Materials:
- Shallow container (aluminum pie plate works well)
- Large spoon
- Water
- Paper towels
- Bean seeds
Procedure:
- Discuss how roots can actually break up rocks because of the force they exert as they grow (look at sidewalks and driveways)
- Mix Plaster of Paris (actually the mineral, "gypsum") according to package directions. Have students wear a mask if they are doing this
- Pour into aluminum pie pan
- Place bean seeds on wet plaster. Cover with damp paper towels. Leave seeds for one to two weeks, making sure that paper towels are kept moist
- Remove seeds and observe structure in plaster where roots once were. Do you think plants are strong enough to break rock?
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