2.37 describe experiments to investigate the evolution of carbon dioxide and heat from respiring seeds or other suitable living organisms.

Experiments demonstrating the evolution of carbon dioxide and heat:

Germinating Peas:

1)      Soak some peas in water for 24 hours so they start to germinate.

2)      Boil some another batch to kill them.

3)      Disinfect both batches and place them in a vacuum flask around a thermometer

4)      Record the temperatures of both peas

5)      You will find that the temperature in the dead peas’ flask will be 21C and the germinating peas’ will be 24C

6)      This is because the peas are still alive and respiring so this shows that respiration gives off heat.