Alternative Energy – or – Just Another Microorganism?
by Pam Collinge
April 28, 2009
While completing an investigation over the characteristics of protists, sixth graders have found a microorganism in the water samples, from the wetland area, that may have characteristics that can be used for the production of energy.
Blue green algae, or cyanobacteria, can be found in all types of water and is a primary producer for many habitats. Its ability to produce oxygen through the process of photosynthesis is one of its more important roles in the food chain and contributes to the biodiversity of life found in the water.
Students have also found out that this organism is one of the fastest growing plants on earth and over 50% of its weight is made up of oil. This oil can be used to make biodiesel fuel for cars, trucks and airplanes.
For more information, watch the videos found on the following
sites:
http://www.cnn.com/2008/TECH/science/04/01/algae.oil/index.html#cnnSTCVideo
http://video.nationalgeographic.com/video/player/ Algae to Power
Jets?
