Students learn about soil properties and the effect biochar—charcoal used as a soil amendment—has on three soil types, sand, loam and clay. They test the soils’ water retention capability before and after the addition of biochar. During the activity, student teams prepare soil mixtures, make observations (including microscopic examinations), compare soil properties, conduct water retention tests, take and record measurements, and analyze their observations and data. They see how the physical properties of soils—color, texture, and particle size—can be indicators of nutrient content and water retention capabilities to support plant growth. From their findings, they consider biochar’s potential benefits for environmental and agricultural applications, especially in conditions of drought and depleted soils. An activity lab sheet is provided to guide experimental data collection and analysis.
- Subject:
- Physical Science
- Science
- Material Type:
- Activity/Lab
- Provider:
- TeachEngineering
- Author:
- C.A. Masiello
- Carolyn Nichol
- Isaias Cerda
- X. Gao
- Date Added:
- 05/07/2018