(4107) Compact Fluorescent Lights...Friend or Foe?
Taylor Clysdale
PCVS




Abstract


Introduction

We are constantly urged to conserve energy because our non-renewable resources are running out. Also, electricity production from coal-fired generators and nuclear reactors produce greenhouse gases and nuclear waste. These gases cause global warming that negatively affects living organisms and their environment. In an effort to reduce energy consumption we have been urged to switch from incandescent light bulbs to compact fluorescent light bulbs that are more efficient at converting electric power to radiant power. This results in lower energy use.

Recently there have been suggestions that compact fluorescent lights emit ultraviolet radiation and cause migraine headaches and skin damage (Times and Transcript 2009). This experiment investigates the effects of compact fluorescent light bulb radiation on living organisms; radish seeds; radish plants; bacteria and; crickets. I chose this investigation because we have replaced most of the light bulbs in our house with compact fluorescent bulbs and I want to determine if there are adverse effects from these lights. Also, there is not any Canadian data on this topic, although Health Canada is currently undergoing research to measure ultraviolet emissions from compact fluorescent lights.

Compact fluorescent lights also contain mercury that contributes to air and water pollution when disposed in landfills. These lights also pose a serious health risk from mercury when broken during use. This investigation is important because the results give valuable health and safety information that is unavailable at this time and may prevent future damage from this type of radiation.

Purpose

The purpose of this experiment is to determine the effects of compact fluorescent light bulb radiation on radish seeds, radish plants, bacteria, and crickets.

Hypothesis

1. Radiation from compact fluorescent lights will increase the rate of seed germination.
2. Radiation from compact fluorescent lights will increase the growth rate of radish plants.
3. Radiation from compact fluorescent lights will inhibit bacterial growth.
4. Radiation from compact fluorescent lights will decrease the growth rate of crickets and they will have a higher mortality rate than crickets not exposed to this radiation.

Method and Results

A light apparatus was constructed using a ceramic light socket screwed to a wooden board measuring 2.5cm wide X 50cm long and connected to a 120 volt AC wall outlet with an extension cord. The lights were inserted through a cardboard lid in which a hole had been cut and the lid was suspended over a cardboard box measuring 30 cm wide x 40 cm long x 26 cm high. A second apparatus was constructed using two light sockets 9cm apart and suspended over a box. A fan system was built to funnel air through the boxes to maintain constant temperature. Samples were kept in four environments; dark; natural sunlight; one 23 watt compact fluorescent light and; two 23 watt compact fluorescent lights, under constant temperature and humidity.

Radiation from compact fluorescent lights resulted in a decreased rate of seed germination, increased plant growth, inhibition of bacterial growth, and had a negative effect on crickets.