Investigating osmosis
Investigating the water potential of potato using the weighing method. you should add the data and graph. It should be about 1500 words. More information is in the files. Feel free to contact at any time if needed.
Assessment criteria:
In order to successfully complete this assessment and meet the above learning outcomes, you must satisfy the following criteria:
AC3.1 Outline the procedure of an experiment, including an accurate method and list of materials
AC3.2 Identify and explain the independent, dependent and controlled variables in relation to a given experiment
AC4.1 Present data clearly and accurately with the use of appropriate tables and graphs AC4.2 Interpret scientific results and identify potential sources of error, uncertainties, and anomalies
AC4.3 Critique experimental design and processes within a given experiment AC4.4 Offer suitable recommendations and improvements that can be implemented in future experimental work
Assignment instructions:
To carry out the experiment, please refer to the instructions for your specific practical assignment which can be found in a separate document. Your tutor will advise which experiment you will be carrying out in order to complete this assignment.
Completing the lab report
1. Introduction
The introduction should include a clear and detailed aim of the experiment with supporting background research to explain the theory and idea behind the experiment. It should also explain how the results you collect and analyse will enable the aim to be achieved.
2. Procedure
The procedure must be a detailed and clearly explained step by step method of the experiment with methodical and sequential instructions including range and repeats. You should discuss the suitability of the procedure in relation to the aim of the investigation.
3. Materials
You must include a full list of all apparatus and equipment used during the experiment supported by a clear and annotated scientific diagram. You should also explain the choice of suitable materials and measurement strategies that enable you to produce accurate and precise results.
4. Variables
You must identify and explain the dependent and independent variables within the experiment, including units, values and range. You should also note at least two controlled variables within the experiment, explain how they are controlled and the consequences that will occur if they are not controlled.
5. Safety
You must identify all hazards related to the experiment and assess the risks associated with these hazards. You should also describe and justify the appropriate safety precautions that must be carried out to ensure the experiment is conducted safely in a laboratory environment.
6. Results table
Your results must be recorded accurately in a suitable table, with correct headings, units and rounding. The results should be presented clearly and must be fully reliable, including any required calculations.
7. Results graph
Your graph must be hand drawn with an appropriate scale, units and title. It should include independent and dependent variables labelled correctly on the axes. Your results must be accurately plotted on the graph, including a line/curve of best fit.
8. Critical analysis of results – conclusion
This section must include a detailed analysis of the results, identifying and describing clear trends and patterns with reference to your results data and graph. You should ensure scientific terminology is used to critically analyse the results, which includes suggestions of any further calculations or experimentation that may be required. Research should also be conducted to support your findings and fully explained with this section.
Your analysis must also show appropriate basic statistical test calculations (mean, rate etc) with detailed explanations of how this relates to your original aim/hypothesis and whether this can be accepted or rejected. You should include suggestions with justifications of alternative suitable tests that may be used to further analyse the results.
9. Evaluation of scientific investigation
You must provide a scientific critique of the experimental design and procedure of your experiment, identifying at least two areas of improvement. Anomalies should be identified, and explanations given into possible sources of errors and uncertainties. This should also include the consequences of potential/identified anomalies and how this affects the processing of data, looking at future experiments of this nature.
10. Referencing
Throughout the laboratory report, you should have carried out a range of research to support your understanding of the aim of the experiment and also in the analysis of your results. In this section, you must provide a complete list of research sources correctly cited in Harvard Referencing style, including the date you accessed the source.
