Apple Science Projects
Some of the best science classes are those that use experiments and projects to illustrate basic principles. Since science often deals with things that are too small to see with the naked eye, showing your students how these tiny organisms affect things is likely the most effective way to help them understand the natural world. Decomposition, oxidation and desiccation (things drying out) are all processes that begin at a molecular level and show obvious results. You can begin a lesson on any of these things by first showing your students the end result, then working backwards to explain the cause. Apples are perfect for these kinds of projects since they are common and inexpensive.
Oxidation
Cut an apple into quarters. Set one on a counter on a paper towel and set another in the refrigerator. Sprinkle the other two quarters with lemon juice or sugar water. Set one of these next to the quarter on the counter and the other in the refrigerator next to the second quarter. Record which quarters brown, which ones don't and which ones brown the fastest. The sugar water or lemon juice protects the apple from oxidizing; these quarters shouldn't brown. The cold also slows oxidation; the untreated quarter in the fridge should brown more slowly than the untreated one on the counter.
Decomposition
Cut an apple in quarters and set two on a paper plate outside and two on a paper plate inside. Check on them every 24 hours and note any changes. See which quarters decompose faster. The quarters outside should decompose more quickly, since there are more microorganisms and insects outdoors. The quarters inside should brown quickly, but may attract no bugs at all, especially if they are in a much-used room.
Desiccation
Wash and dry an apple thoroughly. Mix one part table salt with two parts each powder bleach and baking soda. Do not eat this mixture or touch your face after touching it. Wear safety glasses and gloves for optimum protection. Carve some lines into the apple with a knife, making a design if you wish. Dip the apple in the solution, coating the cuts thoroughly. Keep the bag open and set it in a place where it will not be disturbed. Observe it for two weeks; the apple should dry instead of rotting. The powder mixture is absorbing the moisture, preventing cellular breakdown.
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