ABSTRACT
The impact of environmental pollutants on plant growth has become a matter of increasing
concern in recent years. This project aimed to investigate the effect of spent lubricating oil, a
common environmental contaminant, on the root length of brown and white beans after 14 days
of germination. In this study, brown and white bean seeds were germinated under controlled
conditions, with a control group and experimental groups subjected to the presence of spent
lubricating oil. After a 14-day growth period, the root lengths of the beans were measured and
compared. The results revealed a significant reduction in root length in both brown and white
beans in the experimental groups exposed to spent lubricating oil compared to the control group
having mean and SEM values of 0.8 ±0.004 (White beans), 0.5±0.002 (Brown beans) as against
the control group with 1.6±0.002 (White beans) and 1.3±0003 (Brown beans). This reduction in
root length suggests the adverse effects of spent lubricating oil on the growth and development of
both brown and white bean plants. The findings underscore the importance of addressing
environmental pollution and its potential consequences for plant growth and agricultural
productivity. Further research is needed to explore the mechanisms underlying the observed
effects and to develop strategies for mitigating the impact of such contaminants on plant life.
Understanding the implications of environmental pollutants on plant growth is crucial for
sustainable agriculture and ecosystem preservation.