Introduction

This experiment explores the correlation between the light intensity and the photosynthesis rate on Hygrophilla difformis, an aquatic plant. This experiment observes the concepts of photosynthesis and cell respiration. Photosynthesis is defined as the process used by plants and bacteria to harness the light energy from the sun and turn into chemical energy. 
\(CO_2+H_2O+Light\ Energy=C_6H_{12}O_6+O_2+H_2O\)
As light is a reactant in the process of photosynthesis, therefore the higher the light intensity (lux), the higher the rate of photosynthesis reaction. To achieve this, we use a Vernier light intensity sensor which could be adjusted to varying light intensity. 
As oxygen is a byproduct of photosynthesis, measuring it would determine the relative rate of photosynthesis. For this experiment, counting the bubbles produced by the aquatic plant for one minute would allow us to estimate the photosynthesis rate. 

Personal connection

Ever since a young child, I was known as a curious explorer. When my Ever since a young child, I was known as a curious explorer. When my uncle built a large aquarium at his house, I was fascinated by the organisms he placed in the aquarium. During family gatherings at his house, I would feed the fish and maintain the plants. I felt strong curiosity towards autotrophs as they could make their own food, an ability that we lack. I have decided to explore into this for the IA because photosynthesis is the basis of all plants. Then, I decided to explore changing light intensity because of the common saying "the sun is the source of all life." 

Research question

What is the effect of changing light intensity (lux) on the rate of photosynthesis in Hygrophilla difformis plants? 

Independent variable

The independent variable would be the light intensity. The experiment would use 5 different light intensities (10 lux, 25 lux, 40 lux, 55 lux, 70 lux). 

Dependent variable