23 Plant Experiment Ideas

ThoughtCo / Hilary Allison

  • Cell Biology
  • Weather & Climate
  • B.A., Biology, Emory University
  • A.S., Nursing, Chattahoochee Technical College

Plants are tremendously crucial to life on Earth. They are the foundation of food chains in almost every ecosystem. Plants also play a significant role in the environment by influencing climate and producing life-giving oxygen.

Plant experiments and studies allow us to learn about plant biology and its potential usage for plants in other fields such as medicine , agriculture , and biotechnology . The following plant experiment ideas provide suggestions for topics to be explored.

Plant Experiment Ideas

  • Do magnetic fields affect plant growth?
  • Do different colors of light affect the direction of plant growth?
  • Do sounds (music, noise, etc.) affect plant growth?
  • Do different colors of light affect the rate of photosynthesis ?
  • What are the effects of acid rain on plant growth?
  • Do household detergents affect plant growth?
  • Can plants conduct electricity ?
  • Does cigarette smoke affect plant growth?
  • Does soil temperature affect root growth?
  • Does caffeine affect plant growth?
  • Does water salinity affect plant growth?
  • Does artificial gravity affect seed germination?
  • Does freezing affect seed germination?
  • Does burned soil affect seed germination?
  • Does seed size affect plant height?
  • Does fruit size affect the number of seeds in the fruit?
  • Do vitamins or fertilizers promote plant growth?
  • Do fertilizers extend plant life during a drought ?
  • Does leaf size affect plant transpiration rates?
  • Can plant spices inhibit bacterial growth ?
  • Do different types of artificial light affect plant growth?
  • Does soil pH affect plant growth?
  • Do carnivorous plants prefer certain insects?
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  • All About Photosynthetic Organisms
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StatAnalytica

100+ Botany Research Topics [Updated 2024]

Botany Research Topics

Botany, the scientific study of plants, holds the key to understanding the intricate and fascinating world of flora that surrounds us. As we delve into the realm of botany research, we uncover a vast array of botany research topics that not only contribute specifically to our scientific knowledge but also play an important role in addressing real-world challenges. 

In this blog, we will embark on a journey through the rich landscape of botany research, exploring various captivating topics that researchers are delving into.

How to Select Botany Research Topics?

Table of Contents

Selecting an appropriate and engaging botany research topic is a crucial step in the research process. Whether you are a student working on a thesis, a scientist planning a research project, or someone passionate about exploring the wonders of plant biology, the right choice of topic can significantly impact the success and enjoyment of your research. 

Here are some guidelines on how to select botany research topics:

  • Identify Your Interests:
  • Start by reflecting on your own personal interests within the field of botany. Consider the aspects of plant biology that fascinate you the most. 
  • Whether it’s plant physiology, taxonomy, ecology, genetics, or any other subfield, choosing a topic aligned with your interests can make the research process more enjoyable.
  • Review Literature:
  • Conduct a thorough review and it will be of existing literature in botany. Explore recent research articles, journals, and books to identify gaps in knowledge, emerging trends, and areas where further investigation is needed. 
  • This can help you find inspiration and identify potential research questions.
  • Consider Relevance:
  • Assess the relevance of your chosen topic to the current state of botany and its applications. Consider how your research could contribute to addressing real-world challenges, advancing scientific knowledge, or informing practical solutions. 
  • Relevant research topics often garner more attention and support.
  • Evaluate Feasibility:
  • Evaluate all possible feasibility of your chosen topic in terms of available resources, time constraints, and research capabilities. 
  • Consider the accessibility of study sites, the availability of equipment and materials, and the level of expertise required. A feasible research topic is one that aligns with your resources and constraints.
  • Collaborate and Seek Guidance:
  • Discuss your ideas with mentors, professors, or colleagues in the field. 
  • Collaborative discussions can provide valuable insights, help refine your research questions, and guide you toward topics that align with current research priorities.
  • Consider working with a professional academic editor to review your work after you’ve finished writing it.
  • Explore Emerging Technologies:
  • Consider incorporating emerging technologies and methodologies in your research. This not only adds a contemporary dimension to your study but also opens up new possibilities for exploration. 
  • Technologies like CRISPR-Cas9, high-throughput sequencing, and remote sensing have revolutionized botany research.
  • Think Interdisciplinary:
  • Botany often intersects with various other disciplines, such as ecology, genetics, molecular biology, environmental science, and more. 
  • Consider interdisciplinary approaches to your research, as this can lead to innovative and comprehensive insights.
  • Address Global Challenges:
  • Botany research can play a crucial role in addressing global challenges like climate change, food security, and biodiversity loss. 
  • Choosing a topic that contributes to solving or mitigating these challenges adds societal relevance to your work.
  • Explore Local Flora:
  • If applicable, explore the flora of your local region. Investigating plant species native to your area can have practical implications for local conservation, biodiversity studies, and environmental management.
  • Stay Inquisitive and Open-Minded:
  • Keep an open mind and stay curious. Scientific research often involves unexpected discoveries, and being open to exploration can lead to novel and exciting findings. 
  • Be willing to adapt your research questions based on your findings and new insights.

100+ Botany Research Topics For All Students

Plant physiology.

  • The Role of Plant Hormones in Growth and Development
  • Mechanisms of Photosynthesis: A Comprehensive Study
  • Impact of Environmental Stress on Plant Physiology
  • Water Use Efficiency in Plants: Regulation and Adaptation
  • Nutrient Uptake and Transport in Plants
  • Signaling Pathways in Plant Defense Mechanisms
  • Regulation of Flowering Time in Plants
  • Physiological Responses of Plants to Climate Change
  • Role of Mycorrhizal Associations in Plant Nutrition
  • Stress Tolerance Mechanisms in Halophytic Plants

Plant Taxonomy

  • Phylogenetic Analysis of a Plant Family: Case Study
  • Integrating Molecular Systematics in Plant Taxonomy
  • Plant DNA Barcoding for Species Identification
  • Revision of a Plant Genus: Taxonomic Challenges
  • Cryptic Species in Plant Taxonomy: Detection and Implications
  • Floristic Diversity in a Specific Geographic Region
  • Evolutionary Trends in Angiosperms
  • Ethnobotanical Contributions to Plant Taxonomy
  • Application of GIS in Plant Taxonomy
  • Conservation Status Assessment of Endangered Plant Species

Plant Ecology

  • Ecosystem Services Provided by Plants
  • Dynamics of Plant-Animal Interactions in a Habitat
  • Impact of Invasive Plant Species on Native Flora
  • Plant Community Composition Along Environmental Gradients
  • Ecological Consequences of Plant-Pollinator Decline
  • Microbial Interactions in the Rhizosphere
  • Plant Responses to Fire: Adaptation and Recovery
  • Climate Change Effects on Plant Phenology
  • Restoration Ecology: Reintroducing Native Plants
  • Plant-Soil Feedbacks and Ecosystem Stability

Plant Pathology

  • Molecular Mechanisms of Plant-Pathogen Interactions
  • Emerging Plant Diseases: Causes and Consequences
  • Integrated Disease Management in Agriculture
  • Fungal Pathogens: Diversity and Control Strategies
  • Plant Immunity and Defense Mechanisms
  • Resistance Breeding Against Viral Pathogens
  • Bacterial Diseases in Crop Plants: Diagnosis and Management
  • Impact of Climate Change on Plant Pathogen Dynamics
  • Biocontrol Agents for Plant Disease Management
  • Genetic Basis of Host Susceptibility to Plant Pathogens

Ethnobotany

  • Traditional Medicinal Plants: Documentation and Validation
  • Cultural Significance of Plants in Indigenous Communities
  • Ethnobotanical Survey of a Specific Region
  • Sustainable Harvesting Practices of Medicinal Plants
  • Traditional Plant Use in Rituals and Ceremonies
  • Plant-Based Foods in Indigenous Diets
  • Ethnopharmacological Studies on Antimicrobial Plants
  • Conservation of Ethnobotanical Knowledge
  • Ethnobotanical Contributions to Modern Medicine
  • Indigenous Perspectives on Plant Conservation

Genetic and Molecular Biology

  • CRISPR-Cas9 Applications in Plant Genome Editing
  • Epigenetics in Plant Development and Stress Response
  • Functional Genomics of Plant Responses to Abiotic Stress
  • Genetic Diversity in Crop Plants and its Conservation
  • Genetic Mapping and Marker-Assisted Selection in Plant Breeding
  • Genome Sequencing of Non-Model Plant Species
  • RNA Interference in Plant Gene Regulation
  • Comparative Genomics of Plant Evolution
  • Genetic Basis of Plant Adaptation to Extreme Environments
  • Plant Epigenome Editing: Methods and Applications

Plant Anatomy and Morphology

  • Comparative Anatomy of C3 and C4 Plants
  • Xylem and Phloem Development in Plants
  • Leaf Anatomy and Adaptations to Photosynthesis
  • Morphological Diversity in Plant Reproductive Structures
  • Evolution of Floral Symmetry in Angiosperms
  • Root Architecture and its Functional Significance
  • Stem Cell Dynamics in Plant Meristems
  • Comparative Morphology of Succulent Plants
  • Tissue Regeneration in Plants: Mechanisms and Applications
  • Wood Anatomy and Tree-Ring Analysis in Dendrochronology

Climate Change and Plant Responses

  • Impact of Global Warming on Alpine Plant Communities
  • Plant Responses to Elevated CO2 Levels
  • Drought Tolerance Mechanisms in Plants
  • Shifts in Plant Phenology Due to Climate Change
  • Climate-Induced Changes in Plant-Pollinator Interactions
  • Carbon Sequestration Potential of Forest Ecosystems
  • Ocean Acidification Effects on Seagrass Physiology
  • Plant Responses to Increased Frequency of Extreme Events
  • Alpine Plant Adaptations to Harsh Environments
  • Climate-Driven Changes in Plant Distribution and Biogeography

Emerging Technologies in Botany Research

  • Application of Machine Learning in Plant Phenotyping
  • Nanotechnology in Plant Science: Current Status and Future Prospects
  • Metagenomics in Studying Plant Microbiomes
  • Remote Sensing for Monitoring Plant Health
  • High-Throughput Sequencing in Plant Genomics
  • CRISPR-Based Gene Drives for Ecological Restoration
  • Advances in Plant Imaging Techniques
  • Synthetic Biology Approaches in Plant Engineering
  • Augmented Reality Applications in Plant Biology Education
  • Digital Herbariums: Integrating Technology in Plant Taxonomy

Misc Botany Research Topics

  • Metabolic Pathways in Plant Secondary Metabolism: Regulation and Significance
  • Population Genomics of Endangered Plant Species: Implications for Conservation
  • Impact of Soil Microbes on Plant Health and Productivity
  • Evolutionary Dynamics of Plant-Pathogen Coevolution: Insights from Molecular Data
  • Application of CRISPR-Based Gene Editing for Improving Crop Traits
  • Phytochemical Profiling of Medicinal Plants for Drug Discovery
  • Investigating the Role of Epigenetic Modifications in Plant Stress Responses
  • Role of Plant Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) in Ecological Interactions
  • Biotic and Abiotic Factors Influencing Plant Microbiome Composition
  • Molecular Basis of Plant-Microbe Symbiosis: Lessons from Nitrogen-Fixing Associations

How to Make Botany Research Successful?

Conducting successful botany research involves a combination of careful planning, effective execution, and thoughtful analysis. Whether you are a student, a researcher, or someone conducting independent studies, here are key tips to ensure the success of your botany research:

  • Establish Clear Objectives: Clearly articulate the goals and objectives of your research. What specific inquiries do you intend to address? A well-defined research focus serves as a guiding framework, ensuring your efforts remain purposeful and on course.
  • Conduct an In-Depth Literature Review: Immerse yourself in the existing body of literature within your field of study. Identify gaps, discern trends, and pinpoint areas where your research could contribute significantly. A thorough literature review lays a robust groundwork for shaping your research design.
  • Choose an Appropriate Research Topic: Select a research topic that resonates with your interests, aligns with your expertise, and addresses the current needs of the scientific community. Ensure that the chosen topic is not only feasible but also harbors the potential for impactful outcomes.
  • Develop a Sound Research Plan: Create a detailed research plan outlining the methodologies, timelines, and resources required. A well-structured plan helps in efficient execution and minimizes the risk of unforeseen challenges.
  • Utilize Cutting-Edge Technologies:  Stay updated with the latest technologies and methodologies in botany research. Incorporate advanced tools such as high-throughput sequencing,  CRISPR-Cas9 , and remote sensing to enhance the precision and efficiency of your research.
  • Collaborate and Seek Guidance: Collaborate with experts in the field, seek mentorship, and engage in discussions with colleagues. Networking and collaboration can provide valuable insights, guidance, and potential avenues for collaboration.
  • Ensure Ethical Considerations: Adhere to ethical guidelines and standards in your research. Obtain necessary approvals for human subjects, follow ethical practices in plant experimentation, and ensure the responsible use of emerging technologies.
  • Implement Robust Experimental Design: Design experiments with attention to detail, ensuring that they are replicable and provide statistically significant results. Address potential confounding variables and incorporate controls to enhance the reliability of your findings.
  • Collect and Analyze Data Thoughtfully: Implement systematic data collection methods. Use appropriate statistical analyses to interpret your results and draw meaningful conclusions. Transparent and well-documented data analysis enhances the credibility of your research.
  • Regularly Review and Adapt: Periodically review your progress and be open to adapting your research plan based on emerging findings. Flexibility and responsiveness to unexpected results contribute to a dynamic and successful research process.
  • Communicate Your Research Effectively: Share your findings through publications, presentations, and other relevant channels. Effective communication of your research results contributes to the broader scientific community and enhances the impact of your work.
  • Foster a Collaborative Research Environment: Encourage collaboration within your research team. A collaborative environment fosters creativity, diverse perspectives, and a collective effort towards achieving research goals.
  • Contribute to Sustainable Practices: If your research involves fieldwork or plant collection, adhere to sustainable practices. Consider the impact on local ecosystems and strive to minimize any negative consequences.
  • Stay Resilient: Research can have its challenges, setbacks, and unforeseen obstacles. Stay resilient, remain focused on your goals, and view challenges as opportunities for growth and learning.
  • Celebrate Achievements and Learn from Failures: Acknowledge and celebrate your achievements, no matter how small. Learn from any setbacks or failures and use them as lessons to refine and improve your research approach.

In the vast and diverse field of botany research, scientists are continually unraveling the mysteries of the plant kingdom. From the intricate processes of photosynthesis to the challenges posed by emerging plant diseases and the potential of cutting-edge technologies, botany research is a dynamic and ever-evolving field. 

As we delve deeper into the green secrets of the plant world, our understanding grows, offering not only scientific insights but also solutions to address pressing global challenges such as food security, biodiversity loss, and climate change. 

The exploration of botany research topics is a journey of discovery, paving the way for a sustainable and harmonious coexistence with the plant life that sustains our planet.

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Biology Discussion

Top 10 Experiments on Plants (With Diagram)

experimental research topics plants

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Are you researching on experiments on Plants ? You are in the right place. The below mentioned article includes a collection of ten experiments on plants: 1. Plant Pigment Distribution 2. Ascent of Sap in Plants 3. Guttation in Plants 4. Transpiration in Plants 5. Mineral Nutrition in Plants 6. Photosynthesis 7. Respiration in Plants 8. Growth Rate in Plants 9. Growth of Plants by Promoting Substances 10. Biotechnology.

  • Experiments on Biotechnology

1. Experiments on Plant Pigment Distribution:

Aim of the Experiment:

To detect the presence of anthoxanthin in plant tissues.

Requirements:

White-coloured flowers of any plant, concentrated ammonia, water bath, alcohol, alkali, HCl, basic lead acetate, ferric chloride.

1. White flowers or petals of white flowers of the given plant (e.g., Phlox or Chrysanthemum) are placed in contact with a few drops of concentrated ammonia. A yellow colour is obtained.

2. Extract white flowers on a water bath with aqueous alcohol.

3. Decant the extract and divide it in three portions:

(i) To one portion add an alkali. The colour changes to yellow. Acidify this by adding a few drops of HCl. The colour disappears.

(ii) To the second portion add basic lead acetate solution. A yellow or orange precipitate is produced.

(iii) To the third portion of the extract add ferric chloride solution. A green or brown colour appears.

All these three tests indicate the presence of anthoxanthins in the material.

2. Experiments on Ascent of Sap in Plants:

To demonstrate that water moves up through the xylem of the plant.

A Balsam plant, big test tube, test-tube stand, water, cotton, eosin stain, razor, slides, glycerine, microscope, cover-slip.

1. Take a complete balsam plant with roots, stem, leaves and flowers.

2. Keep the plant in a big test tube containing eosin solution.

3. Fix a cotton plug at the mouth of test tube and keep the experiment undisturbed for 2-3 hours (Fig. 14).

Demonstration of movement of water through the xylem

4. Cut the transverse section of stem with a razor, place it on slide and study under the microscope.

Observations:

It is observed that the petiole bases and the petals have become pink coloured. In the transverse section of the stem only xylem has taken the stain.

Pink stain of the petiole bases and the petals indicates that eosin stain has reached up to petiole bases and flowers through root stem and leaves. Study of the transverse section under the microscope reveals that only xylem cells are stained, thus indicating that the solution moved through the xylem.

3. Experiments on Guttation in Plants:

To demonstrate the process of guttation with entire potted plant.

A potted plant of garden nasturtium, water, bell jar (Instead of garden nasturtium other plants like oat seedlings, wheat seedlings, tomato, Colocasia, etc. may also be taken).

1. Take a potted plant of garden nasturtium and water it copiously.

2. Cover the pot along the plant with a bell jar and place it in a cool and dark place.

3. Connect the apparatus to an aspirator and make it air-tight (Fig. 17).

Demonstration of guttation

4. Keep the experiment a for a few hours and observe the changes.

Slow exudation of water begins at the tip of each leaf. These water drops gradually enlarge and may fall off or run down the side of the leaf.

This exudation of water is due to the phenomenon of guttation. When the plant is copiously watered then water is forced from the xylem vessels through intercellular spaces and out of plant from pore-­like structures (called hydathodes, water pores or water stomata’s, Fig. 19) present at the margins of the leaves.

Water exudes through hydathodes with the help of a pressure developed in the sap of the xylem elements. It is believed to be a pressure identical with the root pressure. The exuded water also contains amino acids, mineral salts, sugars and traces of other solutes.

Guttation occurs abundantly when the conditions are such that absorption of water by the roots is very high and the rate of transpiration is very slow. Guttation can also be demonstrated with a single freshly cut leaf of garden nasturtium when it is fixed on one end of a U-tube fitted with a cork and filled with water. From the other end of the U-tube add a little amount of mercury which helps in forcing the water in the petiole.

4. Experiments on Transpiration in Plants:

To compare the stomatal and cuticular transpiration of the leaves of different plants by cobalt chloride method.

Leaves of the plants to be compared for transpiration (preferably they should be worked out in the attached condition), 3% solution of cobalt chloride, filter paper, slides, forceps, clips, stop watch, desiccator, anhydrous calcium chloride and vaseline.

(a) Preparation of cobalt chloride discs:

1. Prepare a 3% solution of cobalt chloride and soak the filter papers in it.

2. Remove the excess of cobalt chloride solution from filter papers by squeezing them with a rubber roller and let them dry.

3. Cut the filter paper into small discs of definite diameter, make them absolutely dry in an oven at 30°-40°C and preserve them in a desiccator. Dry discs are of blue colour.

(b) Comparison of water loss from both the leaf surfaces:

4. Take a leaf of the plant and place one disc of cobalt chloride paper on its upper surface and one on Lower surface. Press them with clean glass slides.

5. Clip the two slides together with two separate clips, make them air-tight with vaseline and start the stop watch (Fig. 24).

Cobalt chloride method to compare the transpiration of different leaves

6. Note the time in which blue colour of disc changes into pink.

7. Repeat the same experiment with the leaves of the other plants to be compared for the rate of transpiration.

Observation

Above-mentioned observations indicate that the time required for a change from blue to pink on lower surface of leaves is less than that of upper surface.

Because the colour changes rapidly on the lower surface than the upper surface in all the leaves worked out, so it can be concluded that more water was transpired from the lower surface, and hence more stomata are present on this surface than the upper surface.

5. Experiments on Mineral Nutrition in Plants:

To demonstrate water culture experiment of showing mineral nutrition in plants.

Seven large glass jars, split cork, seedlings of nearly same size (either of maize, oat, tomato or tobacco), Sach’s nutrient solution (normal solution as well as solutions with calcium deficiency, nitrogen deficiency, potassium deficiency, phosphorus deficiency, iron deficiency and magnesium deficiency), black paper.

(A) Preparation of Normal Sach’s Nutrient Solution:

Following composition makes the normal Sach’s nutrient solution:

KNO 3 – 2gm

MgSO 4 – 1 gm.

NaCl – 0.5 gm.

CaSO 4 – 1 gm.

Ca 3 (PO 4 ) 2 – 1 gm.

FeSO 4 – Only traces

Water – 2 litres

(B) Preparation of Sach’s nutrient solution with different deficiencies:

(a) Solution for calcium deficiency:

Instead of calcium sulphate and calcium phosphate use potassium sulphate and sodium phosphate.

(b) Solution for nitrogen deficiency:

Instead of potassium nitrate use potassium chloride.

(c) Solution for phosphorus deficiency:

In place of calcium phosphate use calcium nitrate.

(d) Solution for potassium deficiency:

In place of potassium nitrate use sodium nitrate.

(e) Solution for iron deficiency:

Do not use ferrous sulphate.

(f) Solution for magnesium deficiency:

In place of magnesium sulphate use potassium sulphate.

1. Take seven large glass jars and make them clean thoroughly with hot water and finally with distilled water.

2. In one jar fill the normal Sach’s nutrient solution and in the remaining six jars, fill the solutions having the deficiency of calcium, nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, iron and magnesium, respectively. Mark all these jars as Normal, Ca, N, P, K, Fe and Mg with glass-marking pencil (Fig. 33).

Water culture experiment

3. Take young seedlings of almost equal size of the plants (either of oat, maize, tomato or tobacco), fit them in seven different split corks and fix one split cork in each of the jar in a way that the roots of the seedlings are immersed in the solutions.

4. Wrap the jars with black paper to check the growth of algae and keep them in bright, warm conditions.

5. Change the liquid almost every day with a fresh one and note the changes for about a month.

The growth and general health of the seedlings is absolutely normal in the normal solution while it is different, stunted or checked in many ways in solutions with the deficiency of some or other element.

The effects of the deficiency of different minerals is different in different plants.

6. Experiments on Photosynthesis:

To show that carbon dioxide is necessary for photosynthesis.

Two bell jars, potted plant, aspirator, beakers, soda lime, caustic potash, glass plate (2), some inert material, two wide tubes ending into fine tube, grease, iodine.

1. Take two potted plants and place them in darkness for two days to make them de-starched.

2. Place the pots on glass plate and cover them with a bell jar.

3. The mouth of both the bell jars is fitted with a cork having two holes. Through one hole is inserted a wide-mouthed tube ending into fine tube and through the other hole a bent tube is fitted which remains connected with an aspirator (Fig. 35).

Experiment for showing necessity of CO2 for photosynthesis

4. The wide-mouthed tube of one bell jar is filled with soda lime. In the bell jar place two beakers containing caustic potash.

5. The wide-mouthed tube of other bell jar is filled with some inert material like pebbles, and in this bell jar place two beakers containing water in place of caustic potash. This functions as a control.

6. Apply grease at the base of the bell jar to prevent the air to pass in, and keep both the apparatuses in sunlight for a few hours, and observe.

Test the leaves of both the plants for starch separately. The leaves of the plant, placed under a bell jar having caustic potash in beaker and soda lime in the tube show negative test for starch while the leaves of the other bell jar (in which beakers contain water and tube is filled with pebbles) show positive test for starch.

Negative test for starch in the leaves of one plant indicates that there is no starch formation in its leaves because of the absence of CO 2 . All other conditions for photosynthesis (i.e., light, chlorophyll, water and temperature) are normal.

Only CO 2 is not present in the surroundings of the plant because the CO 2 of the air entering through the wide-mouthed tube is absorbed by the soda lime and the entering air is free from CO 2 . On the other hand the CO 2 , which is coming out in the process of respiration of plant, is absorbed by the caustic potash placed in the beakers.

The leaves of the other plant show positive test for starch because ail the essential requirements for photosynthesis, i.e., light, chlorophyll, water, temperature and also CO 2 , are present in its surrounding.

So, CO 2 is necessary for photosynthesis.

7. Experiments on Respiration in Plants:

To measure and compare rate of respiration of various plant parts by volumetric method using Pettinkoffer’s tubes.

Jars, respiratory substrate, Pettinkoffer’s apparatus, barium hydroxide solution, wooden stand, pressure regulator (suction pump), grease, soda lime, oxalic acid, phenolphpthalein, barium carbonate, caustic potash, burette, beakers, measuring cylinder, balance with weighing box.

1. Fill the jars with soda lime and place about 100 gm. respiratory materials in U-tube chamber.

2. Now fill the long and narrow Pettinkoffer’s tubes with solution of barium hydroxide of known concentration (N/10). Place the Pettinkoffer’s tubes in such a way on a wooden stand that they are oriented obliquely.

3. Connect the tubes with a suction pump or pressure regulator.

4. Make the entire apparatus air-tight by applying grease.

5. Now allow the pressure regulator to function. Due to this the air current rushes into the jars filled with soda lime which absorbs carbon dioxide of the air. The air now passes through the plant material placed in the U-shaped respiratory chamber (Fig. 53).

To measure the rate of respiration by volumetric method using pettinkoffer's tubes

6. From the U-shaped chambers, the air is now bubbled through the Pettinkoffer’s tubes filled with barium hydroxide solution.

7. For regulating a slow movement of air and bubbles through the soda lime, respiratory substrate and barium hydroxide solution, the pressure regulator is allowed to work. The air first passes through one of the Pettinkoeffer’s tube and then it is allowed to flow through the second tube.

8. Now remove the first tube and titrate its contents. Due to the presence of precipitated barium carbonate (BaCO 3 ) the contents become turbid.

9. Measure about 25 ml. of contents of Pettinkoffer’s tube, i.e., barium carbonate and titrate it against N/10 solution of oxalic acid.

10. Phenolphthalein drops are used as indicator in the beaker containing barium carbonate and note the end point.

Observations and results:

Observations and results may be noted in the form of following table:

Observation and result

N 1 V 1 =N 2 V 2 , where

(a) N 1 = Known normality of oxalic acid.

It is calculated as follows:

Molecular weight of oxalic acid = 126

Equivalent weight 126/2 = 63

Therefore, N = 63

N/10= 6.3 gm. of oxalic acid dissolved in 1000 cc of water

So, N, = 6.3.

(b) V 1 = Known volume of oxalic acid used = 10 cc

(c) N 2 = Normality of barium hydroxide solution, which is to be determined.

(d) V 2 = Volume of barium carbonate =25 cc

In this way N 1 V 1 = N 2 V 2 may be calculated as follows:

6.3 × 10 = N 2 × 25

Therefore, N 2 = 6.3 × 10 / 25= 2.52

Conclusion:

The amount of CO 2 produced by 100 gm. of given plant material (respiratory substrate) is 2.5 mg/litre in one hour. In the same way, rate of respiration of different respiratory substrates or different plant parts can be determined.

8. Experiments on Growth Rate in Plants:

Aim of the Experiment: To measure the growth rate of plant by a horizontal microscope.

Horizontal microscope with a vertical stand fitted with sliding linear scale, pen, plant or twig of the plant to be measured.

In horizontal microscope (Fig. 57), the optical remain in horizontal position. It is held by a vertical stand fitted with a sliding linear scale. Its optical tube can be moved both upwards and downwards with the help of a screw. With the help of a linear scale, the vertical movement can be measured.

Measurement of growth by a horizontal microscope

The growth from this microscope is measured in the following manner:

1. Make a small point on the shoot apex with the help of a pen.

2. Bring this ink point in focus of the microscope by observing through its eyepiece.

3. After 24 hours again observe the same ink point which has now moved up due to the growth in the plant. Move the microscope upwards, focus it and note the distance between the initial and the final readings.

4. Note the readings daily for 10 days after a definite interval of 24 hours.

An increase in the readings is observed daily. This indicates that the plant is growing daily.

9. Experiments on Growth of Plants by Promoting Substances:

Bioassay of auxin, gibberellin, cytokinin, abscisic acid (ABA) and ethylene using appropriate plant material.

What is bioassay?

Bioassay means the quantitative determination of a substance by measuring its biological effects on e.g., growth, that is the use of an organism to test the environment, Or, it is the determination of the power of a biological product by testing its effect on an organism.

Appropriate plant materials or bioassay materials mentioned in following Table.

Method, observations and results:

See the following table:

Bioassay of some growth hormones

10. Experiments on Biotechnology:

Aim of the Experiment :

To work out the generalized steps used in the methodology of tissue culture in a plant material.

Plant material (e.g. mature carrot plant), water, scalpel or razor, cork borer, sterile petri dishes, callus initiation medium (e.g. Murashige-Skoog’s medium) with 2, 4-D, shoot development medium, pot with soil.

1. Take a mature carrot plant (Fig. 2A) with its tap root intact, remove its leaves and wash its tap root thoroughly (Fig. 2B).

2. Cut the tap root into 3 or 4 pieces (Fig. 2C) with a sharp scalpel or razor.

3. Insert the cork borer into a tap root piece (Fig. 2D) and take out the desired regions of root.

4. Put such a removed tap root piece in a sterile petridish and cut it transversely into small pieces as shown in (Fig. 2E).

5. Take some callus initiation medium (e.g. Murashige-Skoog’s medium or MS medium) with 2, 4-D in a sterile petridish, place some disks or cut pieces of tap root on it and incubate for 6-8 weeks. Callus formation starts within 4-6 weeks (Fig. 2 F).

6. Transfer the calli to another petridish containing shoot development medium. Young plants with roots and shoots (Fig. 2G) start to develop within 4- 8 weeks.

7. These young plants are transferred to pots containing soil (Fig. 2 H) where they develop into mature plants (Fig. 2A).

Various steps showing protocols for somatic embryogenesis in carrot

Related Articles:

  • Experiments on Mineral Nutrition in Plants | Botany
  • Conduction of Water in Plants: 4 Experiments

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Education Corner

Top 17 Plant Science Experiments: Exploring Plant Growth

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Join us as we embark on a journey of scientific exploration, unveiling the wonders of plant life one experiment at a time.

We have selected the best plant-related science experiments for this collection. These hands-on, educational activities are suitable for students of all age groups and not only satiate our curiosity about the natural world but also anchor our understanding of ecology and biology.

Let’s get started, and hopefully, this botanical journey will inspire a lifelong appreciation for the marvels of mother nature.

1. Grow Your Own Plants

This experiment offers an immersive learning experience, allowing students to witness firsthand the stages of plant growth, understand the requirements for healthy development, and observe the effects of various environmental factors.

2. Chlorophyll Paintings

Chlorophyll Paintings

“Chlorophyll Paintings” offers an innovative and artistic approach to plant science experimentation that both students and teachers should explore.

This unique experiment combines the worlds of biology and art, allowing participants to create captivating masterpieces while exploring the wonders of chlorophyll, the pigment responsible for a plant’s green color.

Learn more: Chlorophyll Paintings

3. Color Changing Flowers

Color Changing Flowers

This experiment provides an excellent opportunity to explore the process of water uptake in plants and how it affects the distribution of pigments within the flowers.

Learn more: Color Changing Flowers

4. Low-Prep Flower Dissection

Low-Prep Flower Dissection

“Low-Prep Flower Dissection” presents an accessible and engaging plant science experiment that is ideal for both students and teachers seeking hands-on learning experiences with minimal preparation.

This experiment offers a fascinating glimpse into the intricate anatomy of flowers and the functions of their various parts.

Learn more: Low-Prep Flower Dissection

5. Acid Rain Science

“Acid Rain Science” presents an impactful and relevant plant science experiment that offers valuable insights into the environmental effects of acid rain.

Students and teachers should engage in this experiment to understand the detrimental consequences of pollution on plant life and ecosystems.

6. Reveal a Plant’s Vascular System

Reveal a Plant’s Vascular System

“Reveal a Plant’s Vascular System” offers an exciting and enlightening plant science experiment that allows students and teachers to explore the hidden wonders of a plant’s circulatory system.

Learn more: Reveal a Plant’s Vascular System

7. Make Oxygen at Home

Through the process of photosynthesis, plants convert carbon dioxide into oxygen, a vital component for supporting life on Earth.

This experiment offers a unique opportunity to understand the connection between plants, photosynthesis, and the oxygen we breathe.

8. How Water Travels Through Leaves

How Water Travels Through Leaves

Students and teachers should engage in this experiment to gain a deeper understanding of how plants absorb and distribute water, while also exploring the concepts of transpiration and the importance of water in plant survival.

Learn more: How Water Travels Through Leaves

9. Growing a Bean Plant

By following simple steps, participants can cultivate their own bean plants and observe the stages of germination, root development, and leaf growth.

This experiment offers an excellent opportunity to explore plant anatomy, photosynthesis, and the importance of environmental factors for healthy plant growth.

10. Easy Seed Sprouting

Easy Seed Sprouting

“Easy Seed Sprouting” offers a simple yet rewarding plant science experiment that students and teachers should embrace to witness the wonder of seed germination and plant growth.

Learn more: Easy Seed Sprouting

11. Leaf Color Chromatography

By conducting this experiment, participants can explore the fascinating world of pigments and chromatography, gaining a deeper understanding of the diverse hues present in plant leaves.

12. How to Revive Any Dying Plant

This experiment offers a hands-on opportunity to understand the factors influencing plant health and to develop skills in plant care and problem-solving.

By exploring various techniques such as adjusting watering schedules, providing appropriate light exposure, and optimizing soil conditions, participants can revive and rejuvenate struggling plants.

13. Make Your Own Fun Light Maze for Plants

By constructing a maze using various light sources, participants can investigate how plants respond to different light conditions and orientations.

14. How Plants Breathe

By engaging in this experiment, participants can gain a deeper understanding of how plants exchange gases and respire, just like humans and animals.

Through this experiment, students will discover the importance of oxygen and carbon dioxide in plant metabolism and growth.

15. The Color-Changing Celery Experiment

This experiment provides a unique opportunity to witness the movement of water and the transportation of pigments through the xylem vessels of celery stalks.

16. Growing Seeds in Eggshells

Growing Seeds in Eggshells

This experiment not only promotes sustainable practices by repurposing waste materials but also provides an opportunity to explore the principles of seed germination, root development, and plant nutrition.

Learn more: Growing Seeds in Eggshells

17. Make a 3D Flower Model with Parts

Make a 3D Flower Model with Parts

By constructing a three-dimensional model using various materials, participants can explore the different parts of a flower and their functions.

Learn more: Make a 3D Flower Model with Parts

Similar Posts:

  • 68 Best Chemistry Experiments: Learn About Chemical Reactions
  • 35 of the BEST Educational Apps for Teachers (Updated 2024)
  • 37 Water Science Experiments: Fun & Easy

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Okay, this is the hardest part of the whole project…picking your topic. But here are some ideas to get you started. Even if you don’t like any, they may inspire you to come up with one of your own. Remember, check all project ideas with your teacher and parents, and don’t do any project that would hurt or scare people or animals. Good luck!

  • Does music affect on animal behavior?
  • Does the color of food or drinks affect whether or not we like them?
  • Where are the most germs in your school? ( CLICK for more info. )
  • Does music have an affect on plant growth?
  • Which kind of food do dogs (or any animal) prefer best?
  • Which paper towel brand is the strongest?
  • What is the best way to keep an ice cube from melting?
  • What level of salt works best to hatch brine shrimp?
  • Can the food we eat affect our heart rate?
  • How effective are child-proof containers and locks.
  • Can background noise levels affect how well we concentrate?
  • Does acid rain affect the growth of aquatic plants?
  • What is the best way to keep cut flowers fresh the longest?
  • Does the color of light used on plants affect how well they grow?
  • What plant fertilizer works best?
  • Does the color of a room affect human behavior?
  • Do athletic students have better lung capacity?
  • What brand of battery lasts the longest?
  • Does the type of potting soil used in planting affect how fast the plant grows?
  • What type of food allow mold to grow the fastest?
  • Does having worms in soil help plants grow faster?
  • Can plants grow in pots if they are sideways or upside down?
  • Does the color of hair affect how much static electricity it can carry? (test with balloons)
  • How much weight can the surface tension of water hold?
  • Can some people really read someone else’s thoughts?
  • Which soda decays fallen out teeth the most?
  • What light brightness makes plants grow the best?
  • Does the color of birdseed affect how much birds will eat it?
  • Do natural or chemical fertilizers work best?
  • Can mice learn? (you can pick any animal)
  • Can people tell artificial smells from real ones?
  • What brands of bubble gum produce the biggest bubbles?
  • Does age affect human reaction times?
  • What is the effect of salt on the boiling temperature of water?
  • Does shoe design really affect an athlete’s jumping height?
  • What type of grass seed grows the fastest?
  • Can animals see in the dark better than humans?

Didn’t see one you like? Don’t worry…look over them again and see if they give you an idea for your own project that will work for you. Remember, find something that interests you, and have fun with it.

To download and print this list of ideas CLICK HERE .

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55 Brilliant Research Topics For STEM Students

Research Topics For STEM Students

Primarily, STEM is an acronym for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics. It’s a study program that weaves all four disciplines for cross-disciplinary knowledge to solve scientific problems. STEM touches across a broad array of subjects as STEM students are required to gain mastery of four disciplines.

As a project-based discipline, STEM has different stages of learning. The program operates like other disciplines, and as such, STEM students embrace knowledge depending on their level. Since it’s a discipline centered around innovation, students undertake projects regularly. As a STEM student, your project could either be to build or write on a subject. Your first plan of action is choosing a topic if it’s written. After selecting a topic, you’ll need to determine how long a thesis statement should be .

Given that topic is essential to writing any project, this article focuses on research topics for STEM students. So, if you’re writing a STEM research paper or write my research paper , below are some of the best research topics for STEM students.

List of Research Topics For STEM Students

Quantitative research topics for stem students, qualitative research topics for stem students, what are the best experimental research topics for stem students, non-experimental research topics for stem students, capstone research topics for stem students, correlational research topics for stem students, scientific research topics for stem students, simple research topics for stem students, top 10 research topics for stem students, experimental research topics for stem students about plants, research topics for grade 11 stem students, research topics for grade 12 stem students, quantitative research topics for stem high school students, survey research topics for stem students, interesting and informative research topics for senior high school stem students.

Several research topics can be formulated in this field. They cut across STEM science, engineering, technology, and math. Here is a list of good research topics for STEM students.

  • The effectiveness of online learning over physical learning
  • The rise of metabolic diseases and their relationship to increased consumption
  • How immunotherapy can improve prognosis in Covid-19 progression

For your quantitative research in STEM, you’ll need to learn how to cite a thesis MLA for the topic you’re choosing. Below are some of the best quantitative research topics for STEM students.

  • A study of the effect of digital technology on millennials
  • A futuristic study of a world ruled by robotics
  • A critical evaluation of the future demand in artificial intelligence

There are several practical research topics for STEM students. However, if you’re looking for qualitative research topics for STEM students, here are topics to explore.

  • An exploration into how microbial factories result in the cause shortage in raw metals
  • An experimental study on the possibility of older-aged men passing genetic abnormalities to children
  • A critical evaluation of how genetics could be used to help humans live healthier and longer.
Experimental research in STEM is a scientific research methodology that uses two sets of variables. They are dependent and independent variables that are studied under experimental research. Experimental research topics in STEM look into areas of science that use data to derive results.

Below are easy experimental research topics for STEM students.

  • A study of nuclear fusion and fission
  • An evaluation of the major drawbacks of Biotechnology in the pharmaceutical industry
  • A study of single-cell organisms and how they’re capable of becoming an intermediary host for diseases causing bacteria

Unlike experimental research, non-experimental research lacks the interference of an independent variable. Non-experimental research instead measures variables as they naturally occur. Below are some non-experimental quantitative research topics for STEM students.

  • Impacts of alcohol addiction on the psychological life of humans
  • The popularity of depression and schizophrenia amongst the pediatric population
  • The impact of breastfeeding on the child’s health and development

STEM learning and knowledge grow in stages. The older students get, the more stringent requirements are for their STEM research topic. There are several capstone topics for research for STEM students .

Below are some simple quantitative research topics for stem students.

  • How population impacts energy-saving strategies
  • The application of an Excel table processor capabilities for cost calculation
  •  A study of the essence of science as a sphere of human activity

Correlations research is research where the researcher measures two continuous variables. This is done with little or no attempt to control extraneous variables but to assess the relationship. Here are some sample research topics for STEM students to look into bearing in mind how to cite a thesis APA style for your project.

  • Can pancreatic gland transplantation cure diabetes?
  • A study of improved living conditions and obesity
  • An evaluation of the digital currency as a valid form of payment and its impact on banking and economy

There are several science research topics for STEM students. Below are some possible quantitative research topics for STEM students.

  • A study of protease inhibitor and how it operates
  • A study of how men’s exercise impacts DNA traits passed to children
  • A study of the future of commercial space flight

If you’re looking for a simple research topic, below are easy research topics for STEM students.

  • How can the problem of Space junk be solved?
  • Can meteorites change our view of the universe?
  • Can private space flight companies change the future of space exploration?

For your top 10 research topics for STEM students, here are interesting topics for STEM students to consider.

  • A comparative study of social media addiction and adverse depression
  • The human effect of the illegal use of formalin in milk and food preservation
  • An evaluation of the human impact on the biosphere and its results
  • A study of how fungus affects plant growth
  • A comparative study of antiviral drugs and vaccine
  • A study of the ways technology has improved medicine and life science
  • The effectiveness of Vitamin D among older adults for disease prevention
  • What is the possibility of life on other planets?
  • Effects of Hubble Space Telescope on the universe
  • A study of important trends in medicinal chemistry research

Below are possible research topics for STEM students about plants:

  • How do magnetic fields impact plant growth?
  • Do the different colors of light impact the rate of photosynthesis?
  • How can fertilizer extend plant life during a drought?

Below are some examples of quantitative research topics for STEM students in grade 11.

  • A study of how plants conduct electricity
  • How does water salinity affect plant growth?
  • A study of soil pH levels on plants

Here are some of the best qualitative research topics for STEM students in grade 12.

  • An evaluation of artificial gravity and how it impacts seed germination
  • An exploration of the steps taken to develop the Covid-19 vaccine
  • Personalized medicine and the wave of the future

Here are topics to consider for your STEM-related research topics for high school students.

  • A study of stem cell treatment
  • How can molecular biological research of rare genetic disorders help understand cancer?
  • How Covid-19 affects people with digestive problems

Below are some survey topics for qualitative research for stem students.

  • How does Covid-19 impact immune-compromised people?
  • Soil temperature and how it affects root growth
  • Burned soil and how it affects seed germination

Here are some descriptive research topics for STEM students in senior high.

  • The scientific information concept and its role in conducting scientific research
  • The role of mathematical statistics in scientific research
  • A study of the natural resources contained in oceans

Final Words About Research Topics For STEM Students

STEM topics cover areas in various scientific fields, mathematics, engineering, and technology. While it can be tasking, reducing the task starts with choosing a favorable topic. If you require external assistance in writing your STEM research, you can seek professional help from our experts.

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The art of growing plants for experimental purposes: A practical guide for the plant biologist

  • November 2012
  • Functional Plant Biology 39(10-11):821–838
  • 39(10-11):821–838

Hendrik Poorter at Forschungszentrum Jülich

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Uli Schurr at Forschungszentrum Jülich

Abstract and Figures

(a) Venn diagram of the genes that were differently affected by transfer from Arabidopsis thaliana plants from 20À22 C to chilling temperatures (4À8 C). Data are from two independent experiments from Vogel et al. (2005) and Usadel et al. (2008). (b) Leaf area of Arabidopsis thaliana Col. plants grown with the same protocol, the same seed stock and the same soil in growth rooms of nine different laboratories. Box plots indicate the 5th, 25th, 50th, 75th and 95th percentile of the distribution. Data are scaled to the median size of the plants in the laboratory with the overall smallest plants. Data are from Massonnet et al. (2010).

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211+ Best Experimental Research Topics for Students [2024]

experimental research topics for students

Experimental research serves as a cornerstone in scientific inquiry, allowing researchers to test hypotheses through controlled experiments. 

For students, engaging in experimental research not only fosters a deeper understanding of theoretical concepts but also cultivates critical thinking and problem-solving skills essential for academic success. 

By exploring experimental research topics, students gain hands-on experience, honing their analytical abilities while gaining practical insights into their chosen fields of study. 

In this blog, we will delve into a myriad of experimental research topics for students across various disciplines, providing inspiration and guidance for conducting meaningful experiments and advancing academic endeavors.

What is Experimental Research?

Table of Contents

Experimental research is a systematic approach to scientific inquiry where researchers manipulate one or more variables to observe the effect on another variable, known as the dependent variable, while controlling other factors. 

This method aims to establish cause-and-effect relationships between variables, providing empirical evidence to support or refute hypotheses. Through controlled experiments conducted in laboratory or field settings, researchers can investigate phenomena, test theories, and draw conclusions about the underlying mechanisms governing natural phenomena. 

Experimental research plays a crucial role in advancing knowledge across various disciplines, from psychology and medicine to physics and engineering, by providing empirical evidence to support theoretical claims.

Importance of Experimental Research Topics for Students

Experimental research topics for students are crucial for several reasons:

Hands-on Learning

Experimental research topics offer students practical experience in applying theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios, enhancing their understanding of complex concepts.

Critical Thinking Skills

Engaging in experimental research cultivates critical thinking skills as students design experiments, analyze data, and draw conclusions, fostering a deeper understanding of scientific methodologies.

Problem-Solving Abilities

By tackling experimental challenges, students develop problem-solving abilities essential for navigating academic and professional environments.

Personalized Learning

Students can explore topics aligned with their interests and passions, fostering a sense of ownership and motivation in their academic pursuits.

Preparation for Future Endeavors

Experimental research equips students with essential skills and experiences valuable for future academic pursuits, research endeavors, and professional careers.

List of Experimental Research Topics for Students

Here’s a list of experimental research topics for students across various fields can explore:

  • The effects of mindfulness meditation on stress reduction.
  • Investigating the impact of social media usage on self-esteem.
  • Examining the relationship between sleep quality and academic performance.
  • The influence of music on cognitive function and memory.
  • Exploring the bystander effect in emergency situations.
  • Investigating the effects of color on mood and productivity.
  • The relationship between exercise and mental health outcomes.
  • Examining the efficacy of cognitive-behavioral therapy in anxiety management.
  • Investigating the effects of peer pressure on decision-making.
  • The impact of parental involvement on children’s academic achievement.
  • Exploring the psychology of addiction and its treatment.
  • Investigating the role of genetics in personality traits.
  • Examining the effects of early childhood trauma on adult mental health.
  • The influence of cultural factors on perception and behavior.
  • Investigating the placebo effect and its implications for medical treatment.
  • Investigating the effects of different diets on gut microbiota composition.
  • Examining the impact of environmental pollutants on amphibian populations.
  • Investigating the efficacy of natural remedies in treating common ailments.
  • Exploring the genetics of aging and longevity.
  • The effects of climate change on plant phenology and growth patterns.
  • Investigating the role of gut-brain axis in mental health disorders.
  • Examining the effects of exercise on cardiovascular health.
  • Exploring the mechanisms of antibiotic resistance in bacteria.
  • Investigating the ecological impacts of invasive species.
  • Examining the effects of light pollution on nocturnal animals.
  • Exploring the genetics of rare diseases and potential treatments.
  • Investigating the biodiversity of coral reef ecosystems.
  • Examining the effects of different pollutants on aquatic organisms.
  • Exploring the role of epigenetics in gene expression.
  • Investigating the evolutionary origins of human behavior.
  • Investigating the properties of superconductors at different temperatures.
  • Exploring the behavior of quantum particles in entangled states.
  • Investigating the relationship between temperature and electrical conductivity in metals.
  • Examining the principles of wave-particle duality in quantum mechanics.
  • Exploring the physics of renewable energy sources such as solar and wind power.
  • Investigating the properties of materials under extreme pressure conditions.
  • Examining the behavior of fluids in microgravity environments.
  • Exploring the principles of chaos theory and deterministic systems.
  • Investigating the physics of sound and its applications in acoustics.
  • Examining the behavior of particles in accelerators and colliders.
  • Exploring the properties of electromagnetic waves and their applications.
  • Investigating the phenomenon of gravitational waves and their detection.
  • Examining the principles of thermodynamics and heat transfer.
  • Exploring the physics of nanomaterials and their applications.
  • Investigating the principles of quantum computing and its potential applications.
  • Investigating the properties of different catalysts in chemical reactions.
  • Exploring the principles of green chemistry and sustainable synthesis methods.
  • Investigating the kinetics of enzyme-catalyzed reactions.
  • Examining the behavior of nanoparticles in solution.
  • Exploring the chemistry of medicinal plants and natural remedies.
  • Investigating the effects of pH on chemical reactions.
  • Examining the properties of polymers and their applications.
  • Exploring the chemistry of atmospheric pollutants and their effects on the environment.
  • Investigating the principles of electrochemistry and battery technology.
  • Examining the synthesis and properties of novel materials for electronic devices.
  • Exploring the chemistry of food additives and preservatives.
  • Investigating the mechanisms of drug metabolism in the human body.
  • Examining the properties of supercritical fluids and their applications.
  • Exploring the chemistry of fermentation and its industrial applications.
  • Investigating the synthesis and properties of nanomaterials for biomedical applications.

Computer Science

  • Investigating the effectiveness of machine learning algorithms in predicting stock prices.
  • Exploring the security vulnerabilities of blockchain technology.
  • Investigating the impact of virtual reality on learning outcomes.
  • Examining the effectiveness of different programming languages in software development.
  • Exploring the potential of quantum computing in solving complex problems.
  • Investigating the impact of social media algorithms on user behavior.
  • Examining the privacy implications of data mining techniques.
  • Exploring the principles of artificial intelligence and its ethical considerations.
  • Investigating the effectiveness of cybersecurity measures in protecting against cyber threats.
  • Examining the potential of augmented reality in enhancing user experiences.
  • Exploring the applications of natural language processing in text analysis.
  • Investigating the impact of mobile technology on daily life.
  • Examining the effectiveness of different encryption techniques in securing data.
  • Exploring the principles of distributed computing and its applications.
  • Investigating the potential of autonomous vehicles in improving transportation systems.

Environmental Science

  • Investigating the impact of deforestation on biodiversity loss.
  • Exploring the effects of climate change on ocean acidification.
  • Investigating the efficacy of renewable energy technologies in reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
  • Examining the effects of pollution on air quality and public health.
  • Exploring the restoration of degraded ecosystems and their ecological benefits.
  • Investigating the relationship between urbanization and heat island effects.
  • Examining the effects of plastic pollution on marine ecosystems.
  • Exploring the principles of sustainable agriculture and food production.
  • Investigating the impacts of invasive species on native biodiversity.
  • Examining the effectiveness of conservation strategies in protecting endangered species.
  • Exploring the effects of water pollution on aquatic ecosystems and human health.
  • Investigating the potential of carbon sequestration techniques in mitigating climate change.
  • Examining the impacts of land use changes on ecosystem services.
  • Exploring the principles of ecological modeling and their applications in conservation.
  • Investigating the effects of habitat fragmentation on wildlife populations.
  • Investigating the effects of social media on interpersonal relationships.
  • Exploring the impact of income inequality on social mobility.
  • Investigating the factors influencing voting behavior in democratic societies.
  • Examining the effects of globalization on cultural diversity.
  • Exploring the dynamics of family structures and their impact on child development.
  • Investigating the correlation between socioeconomic status and access to education.
  • Examining the effects of mass media on shaping public opinion.
  • Exploring the relationship between gender equality and economic development.
  • Investigating the impact of immigration on social cohesion.
  • Examining the role of religion in shaping societal norms and values.
  • Exploring the dynamics of social movements and their impact on policy change.
  • Investigating the effects of racial discrimination on mental health outcomes.
  • Examining the relationship between crime rates and socioeconomic factors.
  • Exploring the influence of cultural norms on gender roles and identity.
  • Investigating the impact of technology on social interactions and community cohesion.
  • Investigating the effectiveness of flipped classrooms in improving student learning outcomes.
  • Exploring the impact of inclusive education on students with disabilities.
  • Investigating the effects of parental involvement on student achievement.
  • Examining the role of teacher-student relationships in academic success.
  • Exploring the efficacy of project-based learning in fostering critical thinking skills.
  • Investigating the impact of standardized testing on student stress levels.
  • Examining the effectiveness of online learning platforms in distance education.
  • Exploring the benefits of early childhood education on long-term academic success.
  • Investigating the effects of classroom environment on student motivation.
  • Examining the impact of socioeconomic factors on educational attainment.
  • Exploring the role of technology in personalized learning and adaptive instruction.
  • Investigating the effectiveness of bilingual education programs in language acquisition.
  • Examining the impact of school nutrition programs on student health and academic performance.
  • Exploring the benefits of arts education on cognitive development and creativity.
  • Investigating the relationship between school climate and student behavior.
  • Investigating the impact of minimum wage laws on employment levels.
  • Exploring the effects of globalization on income inequality.
  • Investigating the relationship between economic growth and environmental sustainability.
  • Examining the effects of government subsidies on agricultural markets.
  • Exploring the impact of foreign direct investment on economic development.
  • Investigating the effects of trade tariffs on international trade flows.
  • Examining the relationship between inflation and interest rates.
  • Exploring the impact of unemployment on mental health and well-being.
  • Investigating the effectiveness of fiscal policy in mitigating economic recessions.
  • Examining the role of entrepreneurship in economic growth and innovation.
  • Exploring the effects of income taxation on labor supply and consumer behavior.
  • Investigating the relationship between education levels and earning potential.
  • Examining the impacts of economic sanctions on target countries.
  • Exploring the principles of behavioral economics and decision-making.
  • Investigating the role of central banks in monetary policy and economic stability.

Political Science

  • Investigating the factors influencing voter turnout in elections.
  • Exploring the effects of political polarization on democratic institutions.
  • Investigating the impact of media framing on public opinion.
  • Examining the role of political parties in shaping policy agendas.
  • Exploring the dynamics of international diplomacy and conflict resolution.
  • Investigating the effects of electoral systems on political representation.
  • Examining the relationship between political ideology and policy preferences.
  • Exploring the impact of campaign finance regulations on electoral outcomes.
  • Investigating the effects of gerrymandering on political representation.
  • Examining the role of interest groups in the policy-making process.
  • Exploring the impact of political propaganda on public perceptions.
  • Investigating the effects of term limits on political accountability.
  • Examining the role of social movements in driving political change.
  • Exploring the dynamics of political leadership and decision-making.
  • Investigating the impact of globalization on national sovereignty.

Health Sciences

  • Investigating the effects of lifestyle factors on cardiovascular health.
  • Exploring the efficacy of alternative medicine approaches in pain management.
  • Investigating the relationship between diet and mental health outcomes.
  • Examining the effects of stress on immune system function.
  • Exploring the efficacy of vaccination programs in preventing infectious diseases.
  • Investigating the impact of healthcare disparities on health outcomes.
  • Examining the effects of air pollution on respiratory health.
  • Exploring the relationship between sleep quality and cognitive function.
  • Investigating the efficacy of telemedicine in delivering healthcare services.
  • Examining the effects of aging on musculoskeletal health.
  • Exploring the relationship between gut microbiota and metabolic disorders.
  • Investigating the impact of exercise on mental health and well-being.
  • Examining the effects of environmental toxins on reproductive health.
  • Exploring the efficacy of mindfulness-based interventions in stress management.
  • Investigating the relationship between social support and health outcomes.

Engineering

  • Investigating the efficiency of renewable energy technologies in power generation.
  • Exploring the potential of 3D printing in manufacturing and prototyping.
  • Investigating the effects of material properties on structural integrity in engineering design.
  • Examining the efficiency of water treatment technologies in wastewater management.
  • Exploring the potential of nanotechnology in drug delivery systems.
  • Investigating the impact of transportation infrastructure on urban development.
  • Examining the effects of seismic retrofitting on building resilience in earthquake-prone areas.
  • Exploring the principles of artificial intelligence in autonomous vehicle navigation.
  • Investigating the efficacy of biodegradable materials in sustainable packaging.
  • Examining the potential of robotics in healthcare applications.
  • Exploring the effects of climate change on civil engineering infrastructure.
  • Investigating the efficiency of smart grid technologies in electricity distribution.
  • Examining the impact of renewable energy integration on power grid stability.
  • Exploring the potential of biomimicry in engineering design.
  • Investigating the principles of quantum computing in information technology.
  • Investigating the effects of corporate social responsibility initiatives on brand reputation.
  • Exploring the impact of organizational culture on employee satisfaction and productivity.
  • Investigating the relationship between customer satisfaction and loyalty in service industries.
  • Examining the effects of e-commerce on traditional retail markets.
  • Exploring the impact of supply chain disruptions on business resilience.
  • Investigating the effectiveness of marketing strategies in influencing consumer behavior.
  • Examining the relationship between leadership styles and organizational performance.
  • Exploring the effects of globalization on multinational corporations.
  • Investigating the impact of technology adoption on business innovation.
  • Examining the effects of workplace diversity on team performance and creativity.
  • Exploring the relationship between financial incentives and employee motivation.
  • Investigating the effects of mergers and acquisitions on corporate profitability.
  • Examining the impact of digital transformation on business operations.
  • Exploring the principles of risk management and its applications in business decision-making.
  • Investigating the relationship between organizational structure and agility in fast-paced markets.

Literature and Language Studies

  • Investigating the impact of translation on the reception of literary works in different cultures.
  • Exploring the evolution of language through historical literature analysis .
  • Investigating the portrayal of gender roles in contemporary literature.
  • Examining the influence of literary movements on societal attitudes and values.
  • Exploring the use of symbolism in literary works and its interpretation.
  • Investigating the effects of bilingualism on cognitive development and language proficiency.
  • Examining the relationship between language and identity in immigrant communities.
  • Exploring the depiction of mental illness in literature and its impact on stigma.
  • Investigating the role of literature in fostering empathy and understanding.
  • Examining the influence of political ideology on literary censorship.
  • Exploring the use of narrative techniques in autobiographical literature.
  • Investigating the portrayal of cultural diversity in contemporary literature.
  • Examining the relationship between language and power in political discourse.
  • Exploring the representation of marginalized voices in literature.
  • Investigating the effects of translation strategies on the fidelity of literary texts.
  • Investigating the influence of digital media on storytelling techniques in contemporary literature.
  • Exploring the portrayal of environmental themes and sustainability in literature across different cultural contexts.

These experimental research topics for students span various disciplines, offering students a wide range of avenues for exploration and inquiry in their academic pursuits.

Tips for Conducting Experimental Research Topics

Conducting experimental research can be a challenging but rewarding endeavor. Here are some tips to help students effectively plan and carry out their experiments:

  • Clearly define your research question and objectives to guide your experimental design.
  • Develop a detailed experimental protocol outlining procedures, variables, and controls.
  • Ensure proper randomization and blinding techniques to minimize bias and ensure validity.
  • Collect data meticulously, recording observations accurately and consistently.
  • Analyze data rigorously using appropriate statistical methods to draw meaningful conclusions.
  • Consider ethical considerations throughout the research process, obtaining necessary approvals and consent.
  • Communicate findings effectively through clear and concise reporting in academic formats.
  • Iterate and refine your experimental approach based on feedback and further analysis for continuous improvement.

Wrapping Up

Exploring experimental research topics for students is a valuable opportunity for intellectual growth and academic development. 

Through hands-on inquiry and investigation, students can deepen their understanding of theoretical concepts, hone critical thinking skills, and cultivate a passion for scientific exploration. 

Engaging in experimental research fosters creativity, resilience, and problem-solving abilities essential for success in both academic and professional realms. Moreover, the interdisciplinary nature of experimental research encourages students to bridge gaps between various fields, fostering a holistic approach to knowledge acquisition. 

By embracing experimentation, students not only contribute to the advancement of scientific knowledge but also empower themselves to become lifelong learners and innovative thinkers prepared to tackle the challenges of the future.

1. How do I narrow down my topic?

Start by brainstorming broad areas of interest and gradually narrow down your focus based on feasibility, resources, and academic relevance.

2. Can I change my topic midway through the research?

While it’s best to stick with your chosen topic, sometimes unforeseen circumstances may require adjustments. Consult with your supervisor or mentor before making any significant changes.

3. How long does it take to conduct experimental research?

The duration of experimental research varies depending on the complexity of the topic, availability of resources, and experimental design. It could range from a few weeks to several months or even years.

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13 new horticulture research projects you need to know about.

w_Phytophthora-on-gloxinia_Photo-credit-R.K.-Jones,-North-Carolina-State-University,-Bugwood.org horticulture research

Phytophthora species are well-known and recurrent pathogens of ornamental greenhouses and nurseries in the U.S.

The Horticultural Research Institute (HRI), the foundation of AmericanHort , has announced the portfolio of research projects receiving 2022 funding. Projects reflect HRI’s research priority areas of quantifying plant benefits, creating innovative solutions, gathering consumer insights, and producing practical and actionable solutions. HRI is providing a total of $417,039 in financial support this year.

“Now celebrating its 60th year, HRI is more relevant to the success of the horticultural industry than ever before,” says Alan Jones ( Manor View Farm , Monkton, MD), HRI President. “The projects selected for 2022 funding represent a diverse selection of research topics showcasing ‘The Power of Plants.’ To date, HRI has supported $9.5 million in research grants and scholarships and looks forward to expanded funding as the endowment continues to grow.”

The Horticultural Research Institute’s mission is to direct, fund, promote, and communicate horticulture research. Supporting research that challenges current methods and bridges the divide between businesses and the consumer is exactly how HRI helps build prosperous businesses, advance the green industry, and fulfill its core vision.

“HRI supports projects where the outcomes impact the bottom line for industry businesses,” says Jennifer Gray, HRI administrator. “The projects selected for funding encourage innovative solutions, provide practical application, and will garner valuable information companies can use to grow their businesses.”

experimental research topics plants

Here’s a closer look at the projects receiving 2022 funding.

Quantifying Plant Benefits

Measuring the Benefits of Plants: Improved Cardiovascular Health and Well-being from Visual Exposure to Plants (J. Hollander, Tufts University): New research findings and tools in biometrics have advanced this field drastically and offer significant opportunities to better quantify the benefits of plants. These new tools dramatically improve understanding of how the unconscious human mind responds to plants and what that means for cardiovascular health and wellbeing. These technologies give us the means to compare horticultural elements in ways that were not possible before bringing complex data to bear to quantify the benefits of plants.

Creating Innovative Solutions

  • Creation of Emerald Ash Borer-Resistant “Lingering Ash” Cultivars for Restoration of Ash as Landscape and Street Trees (S. Merkle, University of Georgia): North American ash species are under threat of destruction by the emerald ash borer (EAB; Agrilus planipennis ), an exotic wood-boring beetle that has destroyed millions of ash trees. “Lingering ash” trees are individual ash trees that have been identified as potentially EAB-resistant by their persistence in populations where EAB-induced mortality exceeds 99%. Clonally propagating these lingering ash trees or selected progeny from them would allow clonal testing of potential EAB-resistant genotypes to confirm genetic-based resistance and the development of elite EAB-resistant ash cultivars for production by the nursery industry and planting by landowners and municipalities as landscape and street trees.
  • Stimulating Adventitious Root Formation in Recalcitrant Woody Plants with Agrobacterium rhizogenes (H. Liang, Clemson University): Some woody plant species are notoriously difficult to form adventitious roots. This project aims to examine the rooting stimulation effect of Agrobacterium rhizogenes, a soil-borne gram-negative bacterium that induces hairy roots in dicotyledonous plants, on cuttings of American chestnut ( Castanea dentata ), and yellow-flowering camellias. The project objectives are to evaluate the effect of A. rhizogenes on promoting rooting and identify optimal strains and reveal the physiological and biochemical responses during adventitious root formation induced by A. rhizogenes.
  • Tulipalins: A Natural Fungicide for Greenhouse Hydrangeas from a Tulip Bulb Waste Stream (T. Gianfagna, Rutgers-The State University of New Jersey): Tulip bulbs from cut flower production are considered a substantial waste-stream product. Tulip bulbs have been found to contain tulipalin lactones, which have anti-fungal properties, especially against Botrytis cinerea . Botrytis is a soilborne fungus that affects greenhouse-grown hydrangeas at several stages of production by damaging the flowers and the leaves. We think that a possible way to control Botrytis would be by using a natural anti-fungal spray or compost containing tulipalin.

Gathering Consumer Insights

  • Enhancing Marketplace Acceptance of Native Plants (A. Rihn, University of Tennessee): Traditionally, retailers have not had highly effective marketing of a wide variety of native plants and educating their customers about which plants are native in their region. Some retailers may perceive that consumer may be unaware of the many benefits that native plants provide or that consumers are not interested in environmental benefits. The goal of this project is to take the first step to enhance the marketing of native plants by assessing consumer demand, profiling consumers by their values and native plant acceptance, and identify consumer preferences for native plants to ultimately increase eco-conscious plantings in landscapes that improve environmental health and biodiversity.
  • Images of People or Plants: Which Sells More Plants? (B. Behe, Michigan State University; J. Mundel, Arizona State University): A majority of signage in both independent retail garden centers and home improvement centers show images of plants, not people. This is due largely to a desire to show consumers what the mature plant will look like. However, a theory called image congruency states that people identify strongly with products used by people who look like they feel. The objective is to identify which helps sell more plants: images of people congruent with the observer holding a plant, or an image of the plant itself.

Producing Practical And Actionable Solutions

  • Improved Irrigation Efficiency Through Modeling and Spatial Distribution Analysis (P. Bartley, Auburn University): Improper irrigation management in container production can seriously affect crop productivity and cause issues such as overuse of water resources and nutrient losses to surrounding water bodies. The overall goal of this research is to evaluate and optimize irrigation parameters for specialty crop producers using soilless container cultivation. The results are intended to aid researchers and producers in characterizing irrigation efficiency and dynamic root substrate interactions in order to improve the sustainability of container cultivation of specialty crops.
  • Improving Water Management in Pine Bark Substrates via Pore Size Characterization and Infiltration Testing (R. Stewart, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University): Containerized nurseries require proper management of water within individual pots to minimize shrinkage or crop loss and to ensure environmental and economic sustainability. It is commonly assumed that soilless substrates are able to receive water through their surface at an infinite rate (in/hr), and that their capacity to retain water remains the same throughout production. In this project, researchers seek to better understand and characterize water infiltration and storage processes in pine bark substrates composed of three different size fractions.
  • Management Options for Jumping Worms in Private & Commercial Landscapes and Natural Areas (E. Buchholz, University of Minnesota Landscape Arboretum): Jumping worms are a growing concern within the horticultural community throughout the eastern half of the U.S. Amynthas spp. have been shown to have a significant impact in the losses of leaf litter and nutrient levels in surface soils. There are no practical methods of control or removal. This research will focus on determining which methods and products can offer a solution.
  • Periodical Cicada: Study of Potential Controls for the Tennessee Nursery Industry (D. Airhart, Tennessee Technological University): The goal of this research project is preventing or controlling periodical cicada oviposition damage associated with nursery tree crops. To accomplish this goal, two major priorities will be addressed: 1) evaluation of some new or typical insecticide treatments to manage periodical cicada adults to identify more effective management options; and 2) assessment of nursery tree damages by periodical cicada adults (Brood X, 2021) by oviposition, now starting in eastern Tennessee.
  • Preliminary Study on the Parasitoid Complex of the Box Tree Moth in Asia for a Classical Biological Control Program in North America (M. Kenis, CAB): The objective of the project will be to initiate the research and foreign exploration needed to implement a classical biological control program for box tree moth through the introduction of parasitoids from the region of origin to North America for permanent establishment and control. This first stage will consist in surveys and collections of parasitoids in East Asia and in the establishment of parasitoid cultures at the quarantine laboratory of CABI in Switzerland. After the establishment of cultures and initiation of efficacy and host specificity studies at the CABI quarantine, work in subsequent years will focus on sending the most promising candidate BTM parasitoids to the USDA-APHIS quarantine laboratory in Buzzard’s Bay, Massachusetts to evaluate possible impacts on non-target species to support an application for a U.S. release permit.
  • Preventing Disease Outbreaks in Ornamental Nurseries: Determining Most Effective Diagnostics Tools and Developing a Rapid Diagnostics Test for Phytophthora Species Infecting Ornamental Crops (J. Del Castillo, University of California Davis): Phytophthora species are well-known and recurrent pathogens of ornamental greenhouses and nurseries in the U.S. The development of faster and more specific diagnostics tool is imperative to determine in a timely fashion if plants are infested with Phytophthora and consequently prevent pathogen spread. The objectives of this project are to: 1) Compare and determine the efficacy of the currently available diagnostics tools to diagnose several Phytophthora species, and 2) Develop a rapid and more specific Phytophthora genus and species-specific detection tool that can be implemented in the field.
  • Soil Microbiomes for Plant Health: Exploring Microbes in the Soil for Candidates That Protect Plants Against Root Rot Disease Caused by Phytophthora cinnamomic (J. Burns, Case Western Reserve University): Between 20% to 40% of crop productivity worldwide is lost to plant diseases every year, and plant diseases cost the global economy around $220 billion/year. While chemical control of many plant diseases is possible, pathogens often evolve and become resistant to these measures. Biocontrol using soil microbial species, or the soil microbiome, has great potential in agriculture and horticulture to reduce our reliance on chemical control, enhance plant health, and maintain global food security. The goal of this research is to characterize this complex community, which is essential to the future development of probiotic products that might enhance plant health.

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The Horticultural Research Institute , the AmericanHort Foundation, supports scientific research and students for the advancement of the horticultural industry. HRI was established by industry leaders on the premise that no one could better direct needed research to advance horticulture than the very people who work in it, day in and day out. See all author stories here.

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Plant sciences articles from across Nature Portfolio

Plant sciences is the study of plants in all their forms and interactions using a scientific approach.

experimental research topics plants

Discovery of a component of the chloroplast-associated protein degradation system

Regulation of chloroplast protein import by chloroplast-associated protein degradation (CHLORAD) is crucial for chloroplast biogenesis and plant development. This study identifies PUX10 as a CHLORAD component that functions as a membrane-bound scaffold to recruit cytosolic Cdc48 to the chloroplast surface and bring it into proximity with CHLORAD substrates.

experimental research topics plants

Largest genomic tree of life of flowering plants to date includes almost 8,000 genera

A tree of life based on genes from across the nuclear genome and containing nearly 60% of all angiosperm genera unveils the complex evolutionary history of flowering plants. This tree both corroborates and challenges existing knowledge on angiosperm relationships and classification, and reveals two diversification surges, underpinned by many contrasting histories in individual plant lineages.

experimental research topics plants

Unlocking alleles from exotic wheat

Genomic and phenotypic screening of the A. E. Watkins landrace wheat collection identifies beneficial novel haplotypes demonstrated to improve modern wheat without negative linkage drag or pleiotropy.

  • Seth C. Murray

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experimental research topics plants

Fine-tuning of IPA1 transactivation activity by E3 ligase IPI7-mediated non-proteolytic K29-ubiquitination during Magnaporthe oryzae infection

In this paper, the E3 ubiquitin ligase IPI7 is found to fine-tune the transactivation activity of IPA1 through non-hydrolyzed K29-ubiquitination chain, thereby timely regulating rice disease resistance during Magnaporthe oryzae infection.

experimental research topics plants

Artificial selection of mutations in two nearby genes gave rise to shattering resistance in soybean

Resistance to pod shattering in crops is typically modulated by major loci each underpinned by a single gene. Here, the authors show that the transition from shattering in wild soybean to shattering resistance in cultivated soybean is underlain by selection of mutations within two neighboring genes.

  • Weidong Wang

experimental research topics plants

Leveraging genetic resource diversity and identification of trait-enriched superior genotypes for accelerated improvement in linseed ( Linum usitatissimum L.)

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experimental research topics plants

ZmGDIα-hel counters the RBSDV-induced reduction of active gibberellins to alleviate maize rough dwarf virus disease

RBSDV infection increases ZmGA2ox7.3 expression and oligomerization in ZmGDIα-containing maize, leading to reduced bioactive gibberellins and MRDD syndrome. In resistant maize, ZmGDIα-hel attenuates these effects, thereby reducing MRDD severity.

  • Suining Deng
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experimental research topics plants

Assessing soil CO 2 emission on eucalyptus species using UAV-based reflectance and vegetation indices

  • Fernando Saragosa Rossi
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experimental research topics plants

Sugar transporters PpSWEET9a and PpSWEET14 synergistically mediate peach sucrose allocation from source leaves to fruit

PpSWEET9a and PpSWEET14 function as sucrose efflux proteins in peach by forming a heterooligomer that synergistically facilitates the allocation of sucrose from source leaves to fruits.

  • Mengxiao Jia

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experimental research topics plants

Share the meat

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experimental research topics plants

Keeping D6PK polar

The PIN-FORMED (PIN) auxin efflux carriers in the plasma membrane are activated by the D6 serine/threonine protein kinase (D6PK). A recent study reveals how D6PK is anchored to membranes and trafficked between the plasma membrane and transport vesicles.

  • Katarina Kurtović
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Awarded Projects

Carbon capture pilot at dry fork power station.

Project Fact Sheet

Federal Cost Share: Up to $49 million 

Recipient: TDA Research 

Location:  Gillette, Wyoming 

Project Summary:  The Carbon Capture Pilot at Dry Fork Power Station, led by TDA Research, in collaboration with Schlumberger Technology Corporation, will deploy a carbon capture system adjacent to the Wyoming Integrated Test Center located outside of Basin Electric’s Dry Fork Power Station, a coal-fired power plant near Gillette, Wyoming with 405 MWe capacity. TDA’s carbon capture system uses a low-cost, physical adsorbent to remove CO2 via a combination vacuum and concentration swing adsorption process. The proposed carbon capture system plans to be integrated with the power plant flue gas exhaust to remove more than 90% of the plant’s overall carbon emissions, emissions from coal flue exhaust at high purity (+95%), capturing 158,000 metric tons of CO2 each year – an amount equivalent to the annual CO2 emissions of 37,000 gasoline-powered cars. The Carbon Capture Pilot at the Integrated Test Center project is ideally placed in close proximity to a storage site in the carbon capture hub being developed through the DOE-funded Wyoming CarbonSAFE project . Ultimately, this requires only a short pipeline to transport the captured CO2 to permanent storage; Wyoming CarbonSAFE is currently undertaking a FEED study for the pipeline connecting the Carbon Capture Pilot location to permanent storage. Coal-fired power plants currently produce approximately 935 million metric tons of CO2 emissions each year in the United States. The goal of the pilot project is to inform safe and responsible commercial deployment of TDA’s sorbent-based technology, which could be scaled up for use at coal plants around the world. This project builds on previous DOE carbon capture research and development into the TDA sorbent, funded through DOE’s Office of Fossil Energy and Carbon Management. 

The Carbon Capture Pilot at Dry Fork Power Station will engage with the local community and labor unions, through listening sessions, town hall meetings, and open houses to ensure community benefits are informed and developed with local communities and aim to maximize local benefits and mitigate potential impacts of the project. The project expects to develop strategies to recruit local workers to support the regional economy and has committed to hiring four interns during the duration of the project, recruiting from underrepresented communities, including students from Minority-Serving Institutions. Additionally, the project team plans to deliver seminars to provide educational information for students at local colleges and universities to learn more about carbon capture technology. 

Selections Under Award Negotiation

DOE's selection of an application for award negotiations is not a commitment by DOE to issue an award or provide funding. DOE and each selectee will negotiate a cooperative agreement, and any DOE funding would be provided only after negotiations are complete and DOE's Contracting Officer executes the funding agreement. Before a funding agreement is executed, DOE may cancel award negotiations and rescind the selection for any reason.

Project Name:  Carbon Capture Pilot at Cane Run Generating Station  

Location:  Louisville, Kentucky  Federal Cost Share : Up to $72 million  Selectee : PPL Corporation  Sector : Power   Project Summary:  The Carbon Capture Pilot at Cane Run Generating Station, led by PPL Corporation (PPL), will deploy a carbon capture system at Unit 7 of PPL subsidiaries Louisville Gas and Electric and Kentucky Utility companies’ Cane Run Generating Station, a natural gas combined-cycle power plant with 640 MWe capacity in Louisville, Kentucky. The Carbon Capture Pilot at Cane Run Generating Station expects to capture 95% of the CO2 from the unit’s flue gas using an advanced heat-integrated CO2 capture technology. Developed by the University of Kentucky (UK), this technology aims to capture up to 90,000 metric tons of CO2 per year—an amount equivalent to the annual CO2 emissions of 20,000 gasoline-powered cars. The project team plans to partner with an off-taker who will purify the captured CO2 for use as beverage-grade CO2. Natural gas-fired power plants in the United States currently produce more than 1.7 billion metric tons of CO2 emissions each year. The goal of the project is to pilot safe and responsible carbon capture by designing, building, operating, and analyzing the UK solvent-agnostic process to enable its replication at other natural gas combined-cycle power plants. This project builds on concurrent DOE carbon capture research and development into the UK solvent-agnostic process through the DOE Office of Fossil Energy and Carbon Management. 

PPL and its subsidiaries have a long-standing history of partnership with local community stakeholders surrounding the Cane Run Generating Station and the broader Jefferson County community. In collaboration with community stakeholders, the project team will investigate the potential for a Community Benefits Agreement. The team already employs workers from the International Brotherhood of Electric Workers, and this pilot project expects to create an additional 40-100 construction jobs. As part of its Community Benefits Plan, the project will expand existing training and internship programs to create a project workforce development plan that involves collaborating with local community leaders and organizations and partnering with local colleges and universities, including a local Historically Black College and University, for implementation. 

Project Name:  Carbon Capture Pilot at Vicksburg Containerboard Mill 

Location:  Vicksburg, Mississippi  Federal Cost Share : Up to $88 million  Selectee : RTI International  Sector : Industrial  Project Summary:  The Carbon Capture Pilot at Vicksburg Containerboard Mill, led by RTI International in collaboration with International Paper (IP), SLB, and Amazon, aims to build a carbon capture system at IP’s pulp and paper mill in Vicksburg, Mississippi. The Carbon Capture Pilot at Vicksburg Containerboard Mill expects to capture at least 90% of the CO2 from the mill’s power boiler flue gas using RTI’s non-aqueous solvent (NAS) technology. This first-of-its-kind carbon capture project for the pulp and paper industry aims to capture 120,000 metric tons of CO2 per year—an amount equivalent to the annual CO2 emissions of nearly 27,000 gasoline-powered cars—and transport it to a site for permanent geologic storage. The pulp and paper industry currently produces 48 million metric tons of CO2-equivalent emissions per year in the United States, plus an additional 100 million metric tons of CO2-equivalent emissions per year from related biogenic emissions. The main goal of this pilot project is to illustrate the safe, responsible, and effective use of the NAS technology, help drive its adoption in the pulp and paper industry, and demonstrate how strategic partnerships can accelerate safe and responsible decarbonization. This project builds on previous DOE carbon capture research and development into RTI’s NAS technology, funded through the DOE Office of Fossil Energy and Carbon Management. 

The Carbon Capture Pilot at Vicksburg Containerboard Mill will establish a Community Advisory Council with membership inclusive of disadvantaged communities. The project team has existing collective bargaining agreements with several labor unions, including United Steelworkers (which includes Paper and Forestry, Rubber, Manufacturing, Energy), Allied Industrial Services Workers International Union, United Association of Journeymen and Apprentices of the Plumbing and Pipefitting Industry, and the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers. The project expects to create around 90 construction jobs and will develop strategies to ensure supplier diversity.

Project Name:  Carbon Capture Pilot at Big Spring Refinery  

Location:  Big Spring, Texas  Federal Cost Share : Up to $95 million  Selectee : Delek US Holdings, Inc.  Sector : Industrial  Project Summary:  The Carbon Capture Pilot at Big Spring Refinery, led by Delek US Holdings, will deploy a safe and responsible carbon capture system at Delek’s Big Spring Refinery, an oil refinery in Big Spring, Texas. The project aims to capture 145,000 metric tons of CO2 per year—an amount equivalent to the annual CO2 emissions of more than 32,000 gasoline-powered cars, from the refinery’s Fluidized Catalytic Cracking Unit (FCCU). The Carbon Capture Pilot at Big Spring Refinery plans to demonstrate an innovative second-generation post-combustion carbon capture process developed by Svante Technologies Inc., and capture at least 90% of the CO2 from the refinery’s FCCU. Additionally, the project is expected to decrease emissions of health-harming pollutants, including SOx and particulate matter. The project will be designed to transport the CO2 by existing pipelines for permanent storage or utilization. The refining industry currently produces 243 million metric tons of CO2-equivalent emissions per year in the United States. The goal of this project is to enable scale-up of safe and responsible carbon capture technology, which is designed to be more resilient to the harsher flue gas of an FCCU and achieve cost reductions for replication at other oil refineries and industrial facilities. 

The Carbon Capture Pilot at Big Spring Refinery will create a Community Advisory Committee (CAC) to prioritize public feedback, concerns, and suggestions to project leadership and the community relations team. The CAC will include representatives from community associations, environmental/advocacy groups, labor, first responders, local businesses, and local government. Delek has an existing collective bargaining agreement with the International Union of Operating Engineers (IUOE) and plans to partner with the unions to create workforce and community agreements as part of this pilot project. The project team will also work with community partners, including United Steelworkers and the IUOE, to establish a Carbon Capture Schoolhouse to train organized labor and expand Delek’s skilled workforce. The project is expected to create six operations jobs and up to 200 construction jobs. 

What is carbon capture?

Carbon capture is a process that captures carbon dioxide (CO2) from other gases produced from carbon-emitting sources like power plants or heavy industrial facilities, to prevent it from being released into the atmosphere.  

How is carbon capture different from Direct Air Capture?

Carbon capture technologies capture CO2 at the source before it enters the atmosphere. In other words, carbon capture technologies help avoid emissions by preventing the release of CO2 from power plants and industrial facilities. This is known as “point-source capture,” since the CO2 is captured at the source before it can be emitted.  

Direct Air Capture (DAC) is not a form of point-source capture. Rather than avoiding future CO2 emissions, DAC technologies address the carbon pollution that exists in our atmosphere.

Why is DOE investing in carbon capture?

Large-scale, safe and responsible, deployment of carbon management technologies is critical to addressing the climate crisis and achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. Reaching our nation’s energy transition goals will require capturing and storing 400 to 1,800 million metric tons of carbon dioxide annually by 2050.  

The Carbon Capture Large-Scale Pilot Projects Program received $937 million from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to establish a carbon capture technology program for the development of transformational technologies that will significantly improve the efficiency, effectiveness, costs, emissions reductions, and environmental performance of facilities from the power and industrial sectors. The four projects selected for award negotiations will develop technologies at the pilot scale across the power and industrial sectors. The selected projects are designed to pilot transformational carbon capture technologies and catalyze significant follow-on investments for commercial-scale demonstrations on carbon emission sources, helping to reduce emissions in an effort critical to addressing the climate crisis and meeting our nation’s goal of a net-zero emissions economy by 2050. This program builds on more than two decades of research and development by DOE on carbon capture and storage technologies.  

How many projects have been selected and how much funding is DOE providing?

DOE selected four projects for award negotiations, with anticipated federal award amounts as follows:  

  • Carbon Capture Pilot at Vicksburg Containerboard Mill: Up to $88 million  
  • Carbon Capture Pilot at Cane Run Generating Station: Up to $72 million  
  • Carbon Capture Pilot at Big Spring Refinery: Up to $95 million 
  • Carbon Capture Pilot at Dry Fork Power Station: Up to $49 million 

If the projects are awarded, DOE will provide up to 70% of the cost share. OCED plans to issue an additional funding opportunity for this program in the future.

How were the Carbon Capture Large-Scale Pilot Projects selected?

DOE solicited applications for the Carbon Capture Large-Scale Projects Program with a Funding Opportunity Announcement (FOA) in February 2023, and conducted merit reviews of eligible project submissions in 2023. The merit review criteria included: 

  • Technical Merit, Innovation, and Impact (35%) 
  • Financial and Market Viability (15%)  
  • Workplan (15%) 
  • Management Team and Project Partners (15%) 
  • Community Benefits Plan (20%) 

Internal and external reviewers that are subject matter experts in the evaluation criteria conducted rigorous reviews of eligible submissions. Ultimately, the Selection Official(s) considered the recommendations of the reviewers with respect to individual proposals and applied a portfolio approach to ensure the selected projects satisfied all of the statutory requirements. 

How is this program related to the Carbon Capture Demonstrations Program?

Both the Carbon Capture Demonstrations Projects Program and the Carbon Capture Large-Scale Pilot Projects Program are part of the OCED carbon management portfolio, which provides funding for carbon capture technologies that are critical to addressing the climate crisis and meeting our nation’s goal of a net-zero emissions economy by 2050. The main differences between these two programs are the technology readiness levels and the scale at which the carbon capture technology is being demonstrated.   

The Carbon Capture Demonstrations Projects Program will develop six carbon capture facilities at coal electric generation facilities (two projects), natural gas electric generation facilities (two projects), and industrial facilities (two projects). In December 2023, OCED announced three projects that have been selected for award negotiations . OCED anticipates issuing future funding announcements for additional projects in this program to meet the mandate from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.    

The Carbon Capture Large-Scale Pilot Projects Program provides funding for smaller, pilot-scale projects for carbon capture technology, with a goal of significantly improving the efficiency, effectiveness, costs, emissions reductions, and environmental performance of carbon capture use at both power and industrial facilities. The program aims to prove carbon capture technologies at the pilot-to-commercial scale in partnership with industry and communities. In February 2024, OCED announced four projects that have been selected for award negotiations, and OCED plans to issue a future funding opportunity to fund additional pilot projects. 

Scaling Carbon Capture Technology

What are the anticipated benefits of the Carbon Capture Large-Scale Pilots?

These four Large-Scale Carbon Capture Pilot Projects are located at power and industrial sites in Kentucky, Mississippi, Texas, and Wyoming. The four selected projects have the potential to prevent more than 500,000 metric tons of CO2 emissions from being released into the atmosphere each year – an amount equivalent to the annual CO2 emissions of more than 110,000 gasoline-powered cars. DOE’s funding for the Carbon Capture Large-Scale Pilot Projects will pilot these transformational carbon capture technologies and catalyze significant follow-on investments for commercial-scale projects on carbon emission sources across the power and industrial sectors.  

These projects will address community concerns through meaningful engagement and robust analysis of benefits such as technical training and jobs. DOE is dedicated to ensuring that the selected projects provide tangible community benefits to communities. This includes President Biden’s Justice40 Initiative , which set a goal that 40% of the overall benefits of certain federal investments, such as climate and clean energy, flow to disadvantaged communities that have been marginalized by underinvestment and overburdened by pollution.  

Our comprehensive Community Benefits Plan approach and phased project management approach will ensure the robust engagement of impacted communities throughout the lifecycle of the project, maximize benefits for local communities, and help minimize and mitigate negative impacts.  

These projects will create construction and operations jobs. As part of their Community Benefits Plans these projects have also committed to ensure high-quality jobs and expand training programs in coordination with organized labor and local colleges and universities including Minority-Serving Institutions and Historically Black Colleges and Universities.  

How does DOE plan to address risks associated with these projects?

Ensuring safe deployment and mitigating social, economic, technical, and environmental risks associated with carbon capture pilot projects is of the utmost importance to DOE and central to our project management approach. DOE will work with the project selectees and the appropriate authorities to address concerns proactively and continually throughout the duration of the project. Projects must comply with the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) as well as other Federal environmental reviews and state and local regulations. Funded projects must submit detailed risk assessments and risk management plans outlining potential risks and impacts, and how they will mitigate those impacts (in addition to what is required for regulatory compliance). They must also submit detailed Community Benefits Plans, including how the project performers will transparently communicate risks or potential negative impacts associated with the project to the community. These projects will also address community concerns through meaningful engagement and robust analysis of impacts such as emissions and water usage. DOE is dedicated to ensuring that the selected projects minimize risks to communities. 

How will communities where these projects are located be engaged?

OCED will engage in early, frequent, and meaningful engagement with communities that host the Carbon Capture Large-Scale Pilot Projects. Communities will have substantive opportunities to engage with both DOE and the projects—starting during the negotiation process and extending throughout the full lifecycle of each project. Before projects are awarded, OCED will begin these engagements by co-hosting virtual community briefings with the selected project teams to engage and build relationships with local stakeholders. Additional engagement opportunities will be planned on a project-by-project basis. DOE may use information gained during these engagements to inform the negotiation process. 

Projects that are successfully negotiated and awarded are required to implement their Community Benefits Plans, including engaging with community and labor groups; investing in America’s workforce; advancing diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility; and supporting the Administration’s Justice40 Initiative. While each project is unique, all must pursue robust activities in these four areas. These plans are intended to evolve in response to community and worker input and will be assessed at each phase as part of DOE’s go/no-go decision points. 

Lastly, to ensure that federal investments are planned and executed in a responsible, equitable, and environmentally sound manner, OCED-funded projects must comply with applicable environmental and cultural legislation like the National Environmental Policy Act and the National Historic Preservation Act. A major component of this work is to encourage early and meaningful engagement with Tribal entities, other federal and state agencies, and public stakeholders throughout the course of federal decision-making.  

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Numerical computation and experimental research for dynamic properties of ultra-high-speed rotor system supported by helium hydrostatic gas bearings.

experimental research topics plants

1. Introduction

2. mathematical modeling, 2.1. transient reynolds equation for compressible fluid lubrication, 2.2. rotor dynamics equations, 3. predicted dynamic properties, 3.1. first-order time fluctuation of pressure and the film thickness, 3.2. effect of rotational speed on rotor response, 4. experimental test, 5. conclusions, author contributions, data availability statement, acknowledgments, conflicts of interest.

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Click here to enlarge figure

ParameterValue
Bearing diameter16 mm
Bearing length24 mm
Radial clearance15 μm
Orifice diameter0.3 mm
Helium density0.16698 kg/m
Helium dynamic viscosity1.9388 × 10 Ns/m
Supply pressure7.5 bar
Number of column2
Number of orifices in each column 8
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Share and Cite

Ke, C.; Qiu, S.; Li, K.; Xiong, L.; Peng, N.; Zhang, X.; Dong, B.; Liu, L. Numerical Computation and Experimental Research for Dynamic Properties of Ultra-High-Speed Rotor System Supported by Helium Hydrostatic Gas Bearings. Lubricants 2024 , 12 , 302. https://doi.org/10.3390/lubricants12090302

Ke C, Qiu S, Li K, Xiong L, Peng N, Zhang X, Dong B, Liu L. Numerical Computation and Experimental Research for Dynamic Properties of Ultra-High-Speed Rotor System Supported by Helium Hydrostatic Gas Bearings. Lubricants . 2024; 12(9):302. https://doi.org/10.3390/lubricants12090302

Ke, Changlei, Shun Qiu, Kongrong Li, Lianyou Xiong, Nan Peng, Xiaohua Zhang, Bin Dong, and Liqiang Liu. 2024. "Numerical Computation and Experimental Research for Dynamic Properties of Ultra-High-Speed Rotor System Supported by Helium Hydrostatic Gas Bearings" Lubricants 12, no. 9: 302. https://doi.org/10.3390/lubricants12090302

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