Written by Danielle Salley, Four Green Steps

The famous geologist, Dr. Iain Stewart, will seal himself inside a lucite box (made of transparent plastic) for 48 hours to prove the importance of photosynthesis for creating oxygen essential to our survival.

The lucite box will measure 6 ft. 6 inches by 20 ft. by 8 ft and will contain only half of the normal levels of oxygen; therefore, Dr. Iain Stewart will breathe via the oxygen produced by the plants in the box. In order for this experiment to be possible, 30 large plants and 130 small plants have been strategically chosen for their high rates of oxygen production. By means of controls, the temperature and humidity will remain at optimal levels for photosynthesis, with aid from extensive lighting inside and outside of the box, night and day, as the key ingredient for continued photosynthesis.

The experiment will be conducted at the Eden Project in Cornwall where there has been research efforts on plants and conservation schemes. The geologist will have a hammock, laptop, and exercise bike; meanwhile, a doctor will remain outside the box for safety precautions in case Dr. Stewart were oxygen deprived!

Though this experiment is the first of its class and will thus produce interesting results, one can expect it to be a grand success! It will also be featured on the upcoming BBC documentary series called “How Plants Made the World”, and it will show how plants affect our world.

Image courtesy of Creative Commons.

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