Core Practical 13

• What methods are used to record changes in average temperature?

  Ice cores, peat bogs, dendrochronology
• What causes climate change according to the study material?

  The greenhouse effect from increased greenhouse gases
• What are examples of greenhouse gases mentioned?

  Methane and water vapour
• How does the greenhouse effect influence temperature?

  It increases absorption of infrared light
• What are some effects of climate change listed in the material?

  Melting polar ice caps and natural disasters
• What changes to organisms can climate change cause?

  Changes to morphology, number, and distribution
• What equipment is needed for the brine shrimp experiment?

  • Brine shrimp egg cysts
  • Sea salt
  • De-chlorinated water
  • Salt water
  • Beakers
  • Water bath
  • Stirring rod
  • Magnifying glass
  • Forceps
  • Pipette
  • Bright light
  • Refrigerator
  • Graph paper
• What are the steps in the brine shrimp experiment method?

  1. Dissolve sea salt in dechlorinated water.
  2. Collect eggs on graph paper.
  3. Observe eggs under a microscope.
  4. Incubate eggs at a set temperature.
  5. Shine light to attract hatched larvae.
  6. Count hatched larvae at various temperatures.
• What is the optimum temperature for hatching brine shrimp?

  About 25 degrees Celsius
• What happens to the number of shrimp hatched after the optimum temperature?

  It decreases as temperature increases
• How does climate change affect brine shrimp development?

  Increased temperatures decrease their development
• How can the brine shrimp experiment be modified?

  • Measure effect on seedling growth rate
  • Optimum temperature varies by species
  • Similar growth pattern: increase then decrease
  • Indicates plants are vulnerable to climate change
• What are the safety precautions for handling broken glass?

  • Handle glassware carefully
  • Keep away from desk edges
  • Elevate cuts and apply pressure
  • Seek medical assistance if injured
• What precautions should be taken with hot liquids?

  • Handle with care
  • Use tongs for boiling tubes
  • Wear eye protection
  • Run burns under cold water
• What should be done after handling biohazards?

  • Use disinfectant
  • Wash hands with soap
  • Seek assistance if contaminated
• What type of graph should be plotted in the experiment?

  Temperature against hatched larvae
• What is the risk level associated with broken glass?

  Low
• What is the risk level associated with hot liquids?

  Low
• What is the risk level associated with biohazards?

  Low