Question

In a controlled experiment, a lab researcher grows peas in two separate pots to study their sprouting time. Pot 1 is never watered, whereas pot 2 is watered daily. Otherwise, the plants are planted in an identical type and amount of soil, receive the same amount of sunlight, and are in the same kinds of containers. Which of the following statements is true about this experiment?

A) Pot 1 will show faster sprouting due to lack of water.
B) Pot 2 will show faster sprouting due to daily watering.
C) Both pots will show similar sprouting times.
D) The experiment does not provide enough information to make a conclusion.

Answer 1

Option (C), In the experiment, Pot 2, which is watered daily, is expected to show faster sprouting than Pot 1, which is not watered, because water is essential for seed germination and plant growth.

Step-by-step explanation:

In a controlled experiment comparing the sprouting time of peas in two pots, with all conditions being identical except for one variable - water, we can anticipate different results for the two pots. The pot that is watered daily (Pot 2) should theoretically show faster sprouting because water is a crucial component for seed germination and early plant growth.

Water acts as a solvent and medium for the biochemical processes required for seed germination. When a seed absorbs water, it swells, the seed coat breaks, and the radicle (embryonic root) emerges. Additionally, water facilitates the transportation of nutrients from the soil to the plant cells. Thus, a reasonable expectation is that Pot 2, which receives daily water, would generally have a faster sprouting time than Pot 1, which is never watered.