The effects of 400 Hz, 100 db sound on the kinetics and thermodynamics of isothermal seed germination

It was the purpose of this study to determine the effects of 4000 Hz, 100 db sound on the germination rate of Grand Rapids Lettuce seeds. The data were tested for agreement with the mathematical model for germination developed by Dr. Gaylord T. Hageseth. Using this model the activation energy and other parameters were determined. Comparison was made with the results obtained from experiments under similar conditions except for a quiet environment, performed by Mr. Leon Jaynes. Random samples of Grand Rapid Lettuce seeds were germinated under identical conditions of light, humidity and exposure to sound. Each sample was observed during germination at a different constant temperature. Computer methods were used to analyze the data and to fit theoretical curves to the experimental data by the method of least squares. The chi-square test was used as the criteria for closeness of fit. It was found that the Hageseth model fit the data and that while the kinetics for the noise groups and the quiet groups were different the thermodynamics were the same