How Different Oil Types Affect the Growth of Tomato Plants
Detailed background information and research that has been collected
will be included in the section entitled ‘Introduction.’
An overview of background information
In terms of oils, as a general rule they may be split up into two
general categories. The first are known as light oils. Light oils tend
to be thick and dark, yet very volatile. On the contrary to the heavy
oils are black and adhesive and rather less volatile and therefore
less easily evaporated. The tomato plants have been chosen as they are
readily available and easy to come by. I also have experience in
growing tomato plants which should ensure a fairly ‘smooth operation.’
Hypothesis
My hypothesis is that oils termed ‘light’ will affect plant growth
more quickly than those oils that are know as ‘heavy’ oils. I also
suggest that the main affect will be to slow down plant growth and
eventually cause death to the plants being grown. The light oils
should affect the plant more quickly due to them being less viscous
and thus seeping down through the soil more easily whilst the heavy
oil type is likely to just ‘sit’ on and within the soil or quite a
length of time longer thus meaning it takes longer to reach the plant
itself.
Apparatus
* Soil
* Water
* Measuring jug/cylinder
* Light oil: diesel oil
* Heavy oil: bunker oil
* Tomato seeds
* 30 small plant pots/containers
* Spraying facility
* Safety goggles
* Ruler
* Labels
* Pen(s)
* Rubber gloves
Outline Method
1. I will gather 10 seeds for each category and plant them; i.e.
10 for light oils, 10 for heavy oils and 10 for the control and