An Investigation into the effect of the concentration

of different household chemical cleaning products on

the effects of germination
Do the different concentrations of household cleaning products such as
dishwashing liquid,detergent,and shampoo affect the success of
germination on Vigna radiata seeds

Word Count:3852

1
1.Introduction

Research Question:

Does the variation in the concentrations of common household cleaning products like
dishwashing liquid, detergent, and shampoo have an impact on the germination success of
Vigna radiata seed ?

Context:

The study of how different home cleaning product concentrations affect the germination of Vigna
radiata seeds (mung bean seeds), is crucial for the environment, agriculture, and consumer
safety. Understanding the influence of different concentrations of household cleaning products
on the germination of Vigna radiata seeds is crucial due to its multifaceted impact. Firstly, it
bears significance for the environment, as these products can find their way into natural
ecosystems, potentially disrupting them if they inhibit germination. Secondly, in agriculture,
successful seed germination is fundamental for crop production, and any adverse effects from
cleaning products could directly affect crop yields and food security. Lastly, it concerns
consumer safety, as residues from cleaning products on produce can pose health risks. In
essence, this research is essential for informed choices regarding the use and disposal of
cleaning products, considering their environmental, agricultural, and safety implications.
Beyond this, investigating how cleaning chemicals affect seed germination offers insightful
knowledge into the chemical mechanisms at work, assisting in the creation of safer
formulations..

Aim:

The purpose of this experiment is to determine how different detergent, shampoo, and
dishwashing liquid concentrations impact the viability of germination in Vigna radiata seeds. I
want to know whether these cleaning agents have any negative effects on seed germination,
and if so, how much, by examining the germination rates in different concentration groups.
Understanding the possible environmental effects of cleaning agents in our water sources on
plant growth and development can be a result of this research.

2
2.Background

2.1 What could affect Germination?

Domestic cleaning products are increasingly widely used and contain common chemicals like
fat, alkali, and surfactants, possibly harming agricultural ecosystems and human health. The
growth of germinating seeds depends on elements like water intake and soil quality.In seed
coats, surfactants are frequently employed to even out seed size and safeguard seeds from
harm(Farahani & Firoozabadi, 2019). Surfactants that are present close to growing seeds may
hinder germination(Gálvez et al., 2018).Other studies used 2 classes of chemicals that might
inhibit germination,compounds (most alkyl alcohols, N-ethylmaleimide, nifedipine, phenols,
potassium sorbate) that inhibit the action of, or response to, primarily one nutrient receptor and
(ii) compounds [amiloride, HgCl2, octanoic acid, octanol, phenyl methyl sulphonyl fluoride
(PMSF), quinine, tetracaine, tosyl-l-arginine methyl ester, trifluoperazine] that inhibit the action
of, or response to, several nutrient receptors. Action of these inhibitors is reversible(Cortezzo et
al., 2004)

2.2 What is Germination?

This complex chain of events involves various molecular, cellular and physiological processes
that coordinate the transition from a resting seed to a growing plant.At the molecular level, the
initiation of germination is usually triggered by water uptake.This influx of water activates
enzymes and biochemical reactions that break down food reserves, such as starches, proteins
and lipids, into simpler molecules that can be transported to the developing embryo.The seeds
contain nutrient receptors, such as proteins and membrane-bound channels, that play a central
role in sensing the presence of water and nutrients.These receptors activate signaling cascades
that activate gene expression, leading to the synthesis of enzymes involved in the breakdown of
stored nutrients.As the embryo elongates and develops through the seed coat, it depends on
nutrients provided by the endosperm or cotyledon (the leaf of the seed) for nourishment.Nutrient
carriers, including carrier proteins and transport channels, facilitate the movement of these
essential molecules from storage tissues to areas of embryonic development.Hormones, such
as gibberellin, auxin, and cytokinin, also play important roles in coordinating nutrient allocation,
cell division, and elongation during germination.As the seedling emerges from the soil, it
undergoes chemiluminescence, a light-induced process that involves the activation of light

3
receptors, such as plant pigments, bile pigments, and phototropins.The balance of
growth-promoting hormones such as auxin and gibberellin with growth-inhibiting hormones such
as abscisic acid (ABA) determines the rate and extent of germination.For example, ABA plays a
role in maintaining seed dormancy and inhibiting germination until optimal conditions are met.

2.3 What are Surfactants?

Surfactants, often known as "surface-active agents," are crucial chemical substances that are
used in a variety of applications. These molecules have a special structure that combines
hydrophilic (water-attracting) and hydrophobic (water-repellent) components, allowing them to
efficiently connect various substances. Surfactants help emulsification, dispersion, and wetting
processes by lowering the surface tension at surfaces.One study done((Gálvez et al., 2018).)on
the use of surfactants on seed germination and root length,the results showed that Although
individual chemicals varied, non-ionic surfactants were generally less hazardous than anionic
surfactants. The most dangerous surfactant for both plant species was sodium dodecyl sulfate,
whose impact was first explained by both the surfactant solution's basic pH and high
conductivity.

2.3.1 Cationic and Anionic Surfactants

Anionic surfactants like sodium lauryl sulfate are frequently used in the personal care industry
due to their exceptional cleaning capabilities. Contrarily, because of their attraction for
negatively charged surfaces, cationic surfactants, which have positive charges, are useful as
conditioning agents in hair care products and fabric softeners

2.3.2 Nonionic Surfactants

Since they don't have an electrical charge, nonionic surfactants are known for being gentle and
are widely used in shampoo formulations and other products where a delicate yet efficient
cleaning action is required. These surfactants help protect the integrity of fragile materials and
improve compatibility with other substances.

4
2.3.3 Amphoteric Surfactants

On the other hand, amphoteric surfactants have charges on both sides of their molecular
structure. They are compatible with both acidic and alkaline conditions thanks to their dual
nature, which makes them useful for a variety of applications. These surfactants are chosen in
products made for delicate skin, such as infant care items, because of their mildness, which is
particularly prized.

2.3.4 Biosurfactants

Researchers have also looked at the possibility of biosurfactants, which are made from
microorganisms, in response to the increased focus on sustainability. These biodegradable
substitutes provide chances for eco-friendly solutions in a variety of industries, from
bioremediation to consumer goods with lower ecological effect.

2.4 BioSurfactants and Water Supply

Surfactants are generally introduced into public water sources as a result of human activity.
Runoff causes these substances, which are often present in cleaning supplies, detergents, and
industrial operations, to enter rivers and streams(Hanan El-Gawad 2014). Rainfall picks up
pollutants from urban and residential areas, which raises the concentration of surfactants during
rainy seasons. Some surfactants may persist in the finished drinking water as a result of
insufficient treatment procedures in water treatment facilities(Berge et Al. 2018). The results of
the study highlight the need for better waste management and cutting-edge treatment
techniques to reduce the potential dangers to human health and the environment presented by
surfactants in public water systems.

5
2.5 What other factors affect Germination?

Water:
Proper moisture is essential for the absorption process, the process by which dry seeds absorb
water and become hydrated. Absorption activates metabolic processes in the seed necessary
for germination.

Temperature:
Different plant species have specific temperature ranges for optimal germination. Some seeds
need warm temperatures, while others need cold temperatures to break dormancy and
stimulate germination.

Oxygen:
Oxygen is needed for respiration, a process that provides the energy needed for the growth
and development of seedlings. Seeds take in oxygen from the surrounding soil.

Availability of nutrients:
Seeds need certain nutrients to start growing. The nutrients stored in the seed provide initial
nutrients to the emerging seedling until it can form a functioning root system and begin to
absorb nutrients from the soil.

Microbial activity:
Soil microorganisms may play a role in the breakdown of several compounds that may inhibit
germination. Some seeds even have a symbiotic relationship with the bacteria that aid in the
germination process.

pH level:
Soil pH can affect germination, as some seeds have a specific pH for optimal growth. Too high
a pH level can interfere with the supply of essential nutrients to the seedlings.

3. Investigation:

Hypothesis:

The different concentrations of household cleaning products,, will have a negative impact on the
success of germination in Vigna radiata seeds. Higher concentrations of these cleaning
products will inhibit germination more than lower concentrations. Based on the presence of
surfactants in these products.Depending on the pH of the solution, amphoteric surfactants can
carry both positive and negative charges. They are adaptable and may be found in items like
mild detergents and newborn shampoos. An amphoteric surfactant that is often utilized is
Cocamidopropyl Betaine(Uongpitakpan & Kitsongsermthon, 2021)

6
Additionally, when cleaning products with surfactants enter the soil, they can affect soil
characteristics, changing water availability and nutrient content.(Mao et.Al 2015)

a. Shampoo:As concentration increases the proportion of germinating seeds decrease:

b. Detergent:As concentration increases the proportion of germinating seeds decreases but
the proportion will be less as detergent is more concentrated with surfactants(On
Surfactants and Formulation (Face Wash, Shampoo and Shower Gels), 2013)
c. ‌Dish Soap: As concentration increases the proportion of germinating seeds
decreases,more than shampoo but less than detergent as dish soap is less concentrated
than detergent as its only needed to create water tension but more concentrated than
shampoo as shampoo is made for the human scalp.(Dish Detergent as Nonionic
Surfactant?, n.d.)

Null Hypothesis(H0):

The success of germination in Vigna radiata seeds is unaffected by the various concentrations
of household cleaning chemicals, notably dishwashing liquid, detergent, and shampoo. The
germination rates in the treatment groups using cleaning products Any variations in germination
rates that have been reported are the result of chance.

Dependent variable:

The dependent variable is the success of germination, which will be measured by the
percentage of germinated seeds in each petri dish

Independent variable

The independent variable in this experiment is the concentration of the household cleaning
products applied to the Vigna radiata seeds.

Control Variable:

Throughout the experiment, the temperature is maintained at a constant room temperature to

ensure that variations in germination rates are not due to temperature fluctuations.

7
Materials:

1. Vigna radiata (mung bean) seeds as germination is easiest to observe in this seed
2. Household cleaning products: dishwashing liquid, detergent, shampoo as contains
surfactants that may affect germination as well can contribute to to other factors such as
pH
3. Distilled water to make solutions
4. Petri dishes to simulate an environment for seed germination
5. Tissue Paper to simulate environment for seed germination
6. Measuring instruments(i.e Measuring Cylinder)
7. Beaker
8. Labels and markers
9. Data recording sheets
10. Stirring Rod

Methodology:

1. :Prepare three different concentrations of each household cleaning product (e.g.,

0.01,0.1,1,10 %) by diluting the cleaning products with distilled water. Label them
accordingly.. These concentrations were used to investigate both realistic usage
scenarios and exaggerated effects. This method makes it possible to identify probable
toxicity thresholds, comprehend environmental effects, and build a dose-response
relationship—all of which are crucial for evaluating safety, complying with laws, and
creating safety recommendations.
2. Obtain an equal number of Vigna radiata seeds.
3. Place tissue in the petri dishes and moisten them with distilled water.
4. Place an equal number of seeds(10) on each tissue in each petri dish.
5. In each petri dish, add the assigned concentration of the cleaning product to the cotton
ball.
6. Ensure that the seeds are exposed to the cleaning product but not submerged in it.
7. Place all petri dishes in an area with a consistent temperature (e.g., room temperature)
and provide adequate light.
8. Observe and record the germination progress after 3 days, noting the number of
germinated seeds in each group.
9. Calculate the germination rate as the percentage of germinated seeds in each group
compared to the total number of seeds.
10. Make sure to not completely cover lids as to ensure proper Light exposure and
ventilation for Germinating seeds
11. Germinating seeds will be counted when sprout is visible enough to be seen with naked
eye

8
RIsk Assessment & Ethics:

Risk Level Likelihood Description

High High substantial chemical exposure to skin

Medium High Chemical fumes to nose and inhalation can be toxic

Low High Glass Scratching.

High Medium Glass breakage

Medium Medium Falling or slipping on glass

Low Medium Diluted solution contaminating clothes or skin of experimenter

9
 High Low Ingestion of cleaning product in some way

Medium Low Glass throwing or voluntary breakage

Low Low Voluntary dipping of limbs into solutions of cleaning products

Data recording errors can affect accuracy, emphasizing the need for organized recording and
double-checking data. Adequate and consistent lighting is crucial for seed germination.Use
multiple samples of the same concentration for adequate data(4 petri dishes per concentration)

Ethical considerations: Using Mung beans Because they are extensively consumed without
having a substantial influence on food security, easily accessible, have a quick growing cycle,
and have a lower environmental impact than other crops, using mung beans for this experiment
is a moral decision. The study of mung beans in science, particularly plant biology, has the
potential to lead to sustainable agricultural methods. This decision is the result of ethical
considerations for limiting damage to the environment and food supplies while carrying out
beneficial scientific study.

4.Results:

Shampoo

Concentration( Proportion Proportion Proportion Proportion Averages

%) Germinated Germinated Germinated Germinated
Petri DIsh 1 Petri Dish 2 Petri DIsh 3 Petri Dish 4

0.01 90% 100% 80% 100% 92.5%

0.1 80% 100% 70% 70% 80%

1 30% 50% 60% 20% 40%

10 0% 10% 0% 0% 2.5%

10
Dishwashing Liquid

Concentration( Proportion Proportion Proportion Proportion Averages

mol/dm^3) Germinated Germinated Germinated Germinated
Petri DIsh 1 Petri Dish 2 Petri DIsh 3 Petri Dish 4

0.01 100% 100% 100% 100% 100%

0.1 100% 100% 90% 90% 95%

1 50% 90% 10% 60% 52.5%

10 10% 10% 0% 0% 4%

Detergent

Concentration( Proportion Proportion Proportion Proportion Averages

mol/dm^3) Germinated Germinated Germinated Germinated
Petri DIsh 1 Petri Dish 2 Petri DIsh 3 Petri Dish 4

0.01 100% 90% 90% 100% 95%

0.1 70% 80% 90% 90% 82.5%

1 50% 60% 40% 60% 52.5%

10 10% 0% 0% 10% 5%

11
Analysis:

In accordance with the data the results do follow the hypothesis made as the trend correlates
downwards as percentage concentration increases but shampoo has the biggest fall off in
comparison to detergent and dishwasher which may show that it contains higher amounts of
surfactants or other disruptive chemicals. The line for the 2 other conditions remain mostly the
same which may corroborate with aforementioned studies in the hypothesis section showing
the similarity in surfactants between the 2.These findings strongly support the hypothesis that
higher concentrations of household cleaning products would inhibit germination to a greater
extent than lower concentrations. The dose-response relationship observed in the data, where
germination rates consistently decreased as the cleaning product concentrations rose, aligns
perfectly with the central idea behind the hypothesis

12
5.Evaluation

Strengths:

● A thorough examination of the interaction between dose and response is provided by the
study's testing of cleaning agents at various concentrations (0.01%, 0.1%, 1%, and
10%), which enables an improved comprehension of their germination effects

● To ensure data accuracy and consistency throughout the trial, the study includes daily
data collection

● The experiment takes place in a controlled environment, providing a consistent setting

for observations. This control is crucial for isolating the effects of cleaning product
concentrations on seed germination.
Limitations:

● Vigna radiata seeds were utilized as a model system in the experiment, which may not
accurately reflect the complexity of actual plant ecosystems. Results from such a
controlled context might not be applicable to uncontrolled environments.

● The study concentrated on seed germination, which is a short-term component of plant

growth. It makes no mention of the potentially vastly different long-term consequences of
cleaning agents on plant development.

● The results of this study are unique to Vigna radiata and the cleaning supplies used. It is
important to exercise caution when extrapolating these findings to other plant species or
cleaning agents because various plants and chemicals may respond in a variety of ways.

6.Discussion

The observed inhibitory effect of cleaning agents on seed germination, as indicated by a

decrease in germination rate as the concentration of these substances increased, could be due
to a number of factors. First, many household cleaning products contain chemicals designed to
break down and remove oils and organics, including surfactants, solvents, and detergents.

When applied to seeds, these chemicals can disrupt the seed coat, interfere with nutrient
absorption, or damage the fragile embryo, thereby inhibiting germination. Second, cleaning

13
products often have a pH that is different from the optimal pH range for seed germination. A pH
value that is too high, too acidic or too alkaline, can be detrimental to the seed by disrupting the
enzymatic reactions necessary for germination; this can be prevented by soil treatments like
lime in order to decrease pH. In addition, some chemicals in cleaning products can be toxic to
seeds by penetrating the seed tissue and interfering with its metabolism, ultimately leading to
reduced germination or reduced plant growth((Rastogi et al., 2017). In addition, concentrated
cleaning products can create osmotic pressure on the seeds, causing the seeds to drain and
make it difficult to absorb the water needed for germination(Massah et Al. 2019). Cleaning
products may also contain antimicrobial agents that inhibit the growth of beneficial soil
microorganisms, which play a role in seed germination by decomposing organic matter and
releasing nutrients(Koza et al., 2022). In addition, cleaning products can physically damage
grains by altering their surface properties or cause mechanical stress, affecting the seeds ability
to absorb water and expand during processing. germination. It is important to note that different
cleaning products have different chemical compositions and that even within the same product
the formulation may differ, resulting in different effects on the germination of the seeds. seed.
The dose-response relationship observed in the experiment, where higher concentrations of
cleaning products had a greater inhibitory effect, is consistent with the idea that concentration
and time Exposure to these chemicals are important factors in determining their impact on
seeds.

According To this study(Vanitha et Al 2017)Mung bean seeds were treated to various cleaning
chemicals used in households and similar to my experiment like shampoo or dish cleaner were
used and seeds exhibited poor germination and sluggish development of root, shoot, and
secondary roots.decrease in seed vigor index and germination rate. One contributing factor
would be the buildup of these harmful chemical
continuously introducing substances into the soil. It may alter thepH, a rise in salinity, and a
change in the makeup of the microbes and their distinguishing characteristics, nutritional
changes,composition and a decline in the soil's fertility. ongoing usage.

These substances can have a negative impact both on the soil and plant and seed development
which in comparison to my study The results of our study align closely with the observations
presented in the statement regarding the impact of household cleaning products on seed
germination and soil health. We observed a clear reduction in germination percentages as the
concentrations of cleaning agents increased, suggesting a dose-response relationship The
strength of this study A typical and accepted technique for surface sterilizing seeds is the use of
a 1% sodium hypochlorite solution. This process provides consistency across trials and aids in
preventing fungal contamination.The utilization of naturally occurring and commercially obtained
samples, together with dilution, enables other researchers to repeat the experiment. By using a
tap water control group as a point of reference, it is possible to compare the results of the tested
samples' (cleaning products') various impacts on seed germination but this study also has
limitations such as only one variety of plant seed (Vigna radiata) and a small selection of
household cleaners and natural samples were used in the investigation. The findings might not
be transferable to a wider variety of cleaning agents and other plant species.An eight-day

14
observation period is enough for evaluating germination, but it can miss longer-term effects on
plant development. Longer-term research may shed light on how cleaning agents affect mature
plants. Petri plates filled with filter paper and tap water help to simplify soil conditions.

Another study(The Efficacy Data of Two Household Cleaning and Disinfecting Agents on Lens
Culinaris Medik and Vicia Faba Seed Germination - PubMed, 2021)had shown results,The
germination experiment of Lens culinaris Medik and Vicia faba under different treatment
concentrations (0.005%, 0.05%, 0.1%, and 0.5%) of household sanitizers (hypochlorite bleach
and white vinegar) was tested for seven days in addition to the control . Both 0.1 and 0.5% of
hypochlorite bleach and white vinegar prevented the seeds of both lentil and faba bean from
germinating alike. This experiment had very similar treatment groups to mine following a similar
exponential growth in concentration with 4 different treatment conditions bit with different types
of seeds.Despite the differences, the trend in correlation is the same with higher concentrations
of the chemical having inversely negative effects on the growth of germinating seeds due to the
the denaturation of enzymes and possibly the denaturation of enzymes in the process of
germination.The experiment's use of the lentil and faba bean plant species, which broadens the
application of the results beyond a single species, is one of its significant strengths. This
diversification enables a more thorough understanding of how various crops are impacted by
home cleaners, potentially improving the application of the findings in agricultural situations.

The data presented in both the study by (Elezz and Ahmed (2021)) and in my experiment
exhibit compelling consistency, highlighting a shared and robust inhibitory effect of cleaning
agents on seed germination. This commonality suggests a universal response of plants to the
presence of cleaning chemicals, transcending specific plant species. The analysis of trends in
both datasets clearly demonstrates that as the concentration of cleaning agents increases, there
is a notable and consistent decrease in the germination rates of various plant species. This
dose-response relationship underscores the pivotal role of both concentration and the duration
of exposure to cleaning chemicals in determining their influence on seed germination. In my
own experiment, the reduction in germination percentages as cleaning agent concentrations
rose closely aligns with the trends observed in the study by Elezz and Ahmed, strengthening the
argument for a generalizable response of plants to these chemicals

7.Conclusion:

15
In summary, these experiments emphasize the importance of understanding the potential
consequences of household cleaning products on seed germination and plant growth. Such
knowledge has implications not only for consumer safety but also for informed decision-making
in agriculture, conservation, and product formulation . While these controlled studies provide
valuable insights, further research in more complex and realistic environments is essential to
fully grasp the real-world implications of cleaning agents on plant ecosystems as to help the
general public be more conscious of the chemical choice they make towards the environment.

References:

Cortezzo, D., Setlow, B., & Setlow, P. (2004, April 1). Analysis of the action of compounds that
inhibit the germination of spores of Bacillus species. OUP Academic.
https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1365-2672.2004.02196.x

Gálvez, López-Galindo, & Peña . (2018, October 29). Effect of different surfactants on
germination and root elongation of two horticultural crops: implications for seed coating.
tandfonline.com. Retrieved July 22, 2023, from
https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/01140671.2018.1538051

Farahani, & Firoozabadi. (2019, September). Surfactant seed coating; toxic or beneficial?
Retrieved November 22, 2023, from
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/336341871_Surfactant_seed_coating_toxic_or_benefi
cial

On Surfactants and Formulation (face wash, shampoo and shower gels). (2013, April 23). It’s All
in My Hands.
https://itsallinmyhands.com/2013/04/23/on-surfactants-and-formulation-face-wash-shampoo-and
-shower-gels/

16
Dish detergent as nonionic surfactant? (n.d.). Houzz.
https://www.houzz.com/discussions/1502848/dish-detergent-as-nonionic-surfactant

Uongpitakpan, & Kitsongsermthon. (2021). Investigation of sodium laurylglucosides

hydroxypropyl sulfonate through response surface methodology - Effects of amphoteric
surfactant and electrolyte. Thai Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences ., 113–120.

Rastogi, A., Zivcak, M., Sytar, O., Kalaji, H. M., He, X., Mbarki, S., & Brestic, M. (2017, October
12). Impact of Metal and Metal Oxide Nanoparticles on Plant: A Critical Review. PubMed
Central (PMC). https://doi.org/10.3389/fchem.2017.00078

Koza, N. A., Adedayo, A. A., Babalola, O. O., & Kappo, A. P. (2022, July 28). Microorganisms in
Plant Growth and Development: Roles in Abiotic Stress Tolerance and Secondary Metabolites
Secretion. PubMed Central (PMC). https://doi.org/10.3390/microorganisms10081528

Surender, Sreekar, & Vighnesh. (2017, September). A study on the effects of cleaning agents
(Household) on seed germination. International Journal of Advance Research Is Science and
Engineering, 6(01), 198–203.
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/328430821_A_study_on_the_effects_of_cleaning_age
nts_Household_on_seed_germination

The efficacy data of two household cleaning and disinfecting agents on Lens culinaris Medik
and Vicia faba seed germination - PubMed. (2021, January 29). PubMed.
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.dib.2021.106811

Bergé, Alexandre & Wiest, Laure & Baudot, Robert & Giroud, Barbara & Vulliet, Emmanuelle.
(2018). Occurrence of multi-class surfactants in urban wastewater: contribution of a healthcare
facility to the pollution transported into the sewerage system. Environmental Science and
Pollution Research. 25. 10.1007/s11356-017-0470-8.

Massah, Jafar & Dousti, Aida & Khazaei, Javad & Vaezzadeh, Majid. (2019). Effects of water
magnetic treatment on seed germination and seedling growth of wheat. Journal of Plant
Nutrition. 42. 1-7. 10.1080/01904167.2019.1617309.

Xuhui Mao, Rui Jiang, Wei Xiao, Jiaguo Yu,Use of surfactants for the remediation of
contaminated soils: A review,
Journal of Hazardous Materials,Volume 285,2015,

17
Pages 419-435,
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jhazmat.2014.12.009.
(https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0304389414009911)

18