Research Proposal
Most living things including aquatic organisms use oxygen in respiration.
The atmosphere is composed of 21% oxygen, some of which naturally
dissolves in water. The amount of oxygen dissolving in water is influenced
by water temperature. For example, the water at 25 C contains approximately
0.0008% dissolved oxygen (D.O.) Many factors contribute to
the dissolved oxygen level such as: a decrease in light penetration that
reduces photosynthesis; the decomposition of organic matter such as dead
algae, dead fish, or sewage; and the presence of a canopy, that may influence
water temperature. This study will investigate the changes in dissolved
oxygen in a stream due to photosynthesis, respiration, turbulence, and
water temperature based on data from the French Creek Site Project using
STELLA modeling.
Statement of the Problem:
What are the effects
of photosynthesis, turbulence, respiration and water temperature on levels
of dissolved oxygen within a stream?
Hypothesis:
If the rate of photosynthesis or
turbulence in a stream increases or the temperature or the rate of respiration
decreases, then the level of dissolved oxygen in a stream will increase.
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