The hypothesis is that environmental factors such as temperature, soil moisture, and soil type can affect the decomposition rate of a carrot.

You will design an experiment to test the effects of different environmental conditions on the decomposition of a carrot. You will use two plastic bags as the decomposition chambers for the carrot, one experimental chamber and one control chamber.

You will need several triple-beam balances, 2 one-pint plastic bags with zipper closures, 8-20 pounds of good quality potting soil, several garden trowels, large spoons, or plastic cups, 12 medium carrots, inexpensive watercolor paintbrushes, other types of soil, refrigerator space, incubator space, several thermometers, several small beakers, graduated cylinders, and bowls.

The experiment showed that environmental factors such as temperature, soil moisture, and soil type can affect the decomposition rate of a carrot. The cold temperatures prevented the microbes from doing their job, while the waterlogged conditions favored the anaerobic bacteria living within the soil, who then went to work decomposing the carrot.

This science project is interesting and unique because it allows students to explore the role of decomposer organisms in nutrient recycling and their importance in maintaining the flow of energy through an ecosystem.

Experiment variations to consider include testing the effects of fertilizer on decomposition rate, or testing the decomposition rate of different types of organic matter.

Hey there! Here are some awesome videos about this science project that we think you'll really like. They're not only super fun, but they'll also help you learn more about the science behind the project. So sit back, relax, and get ready to have some fun!!