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How to Make an Algae Project

Algae, the plural of alga, comes from the Latin. Organisms in the algae classification include seaweed and range from single-celled creatures to kelp organisms more than 200 feet long. Algae are not considered plants, but rather are in the protist kingdom. Algae are the subject of intense scientific attention because of the possibility of extracting fuel from them instead of from traditional fossil-based sources. Many school projects involving algae have to do with providing optimal growth conditions. This experiment seeks the best environment for growing red algae.

Things You'll Need

  • Red algae
  • Jars
  • Hot plate
  • Microscope
  • Eyedropper
  • Thermometer
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Instructions

    • 1

      Put red algae into three jars and add enough water to cover with the eyedropper. Set one on a hot plate and heat it to 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Keep the other jars at 50 degrees and 65 degrees Fahrenheit, using refrigeration and climate control if needed. Red algae can be ordered from science suppliers.

    • 2

      Take pictures of the algae through the microscope after you put them into the jars and measure the diameter of each sample. Record your data. Add water to keep the algae covered.

    • 3

      Measure the algae each day and record the data for each sample. Take a new photograph of each sample every week.

    • 4

      Measure the samples for the final time at the end of the fourth week. Take a final set of pictures. Write a paragraph summarizing your findings. You should have found that the cells grew together into long chainlike structures, and that the growth cycle takes place the most quickly in the coolest temperature.

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