The Effect of Worms on the pH Level of Soil

The purpose of this experiment was to determine the effect of worms on the pH level of soil. This could lead to more effective or eco-friendly farming methods. This experiment attempted to see whether worms would have a greater effect returning soil to a stable pH level from basic pH levels or acidic pH levels, if they had an effect at all. To measure this effect, small soil plots were set up in containers. Some plots were treated with citric acid, others with potassium. Some containers worms, while some did not. The citric acid was added to create acidic soil; the potassium created basic soil. The pH levels from the plots that had worms were compared to the pH levels from the plots without worms in order to determine the worms’ effect on pH level as a whole. The citric acid plots were then compared to the potassium plots in order to determine if worms had a greater influence in the pH level of acidic soil or basic soil. The pH levels of each plot were measured over time using a pH meter. A descriptive test was used to compare the trends of the different plots. The results showed that worms did have an effect on the pH level of soil and a greater effect on acidic soil over basic soil.

Research Done By:

Elizabeth Diviney
WarrenMottHigh School

Nicholas Kropp
Sterling HeightsHigh School

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