[Campbell Biology P.677] Why did the researchers add filtrate from which macerated moss had ... | Practice Question

Why did the researchers add filtrate from which macerated moss had been removed to the control microcosms?

  • A: To provide nutrients for rock weathering.
  • B: To account for any chemical effects of substances released by macerated moss that are not due to the living moss itself.
  • C: To simulate the natural environment where moss is present.
  • D: To ensure both control and experimental groups had the same volume of liquid.

Explanation

Adding filtrate from macerated moss to the control microcosms helps ensure that any observed differences between the control and experimental groups are due to the presence of living moss, rather than other substances released during the maceration process or from the moss itself without biological activity. It acts as a control for non-biological chemical influences.