by CF Baes, HL Ragsdale
Resource Type: Journal article
Source: Environmental Pollution (1981) 2:21-35
Grades: High School
Tree rings are like little time capsules, holding clues about the environmental pollution these woody witnesses have endured over the decades. This study put that tree-ring record to the test, measuring lead levels in the wood of different tree species growing near a busy road versus in the forest. The results were fascinating – certain species like hickory proved to be true lead detectives, with concentrations tracking the rise in nearby traffic. But the story wasn’t the same for all trees, with tons of variability even among individuals of the same species.
Phenomena:
DCIs:
ESS3.C: Human impacts on earth’s systems
ESS1.C: The history of planet earth
Notes:
- Lead pollution levels have varied over time, starting in particular, when leaded gas was introduced for cars and then falling dramatically after the introduction of unleaded gas.
Driving questions:
- What can tree rings tell us about the environmental history of a place?
Topics: growth, pollution, and tree rings
Features: charts and data table