EXERCISE 37 

 THE CAPACITY OF GRAIN TO ABSORB MOISTURE 



Object. To determine the amount of moisture that corn 

 and other grains will absorb when submerged in water; 

 also the rate at which such absorption takes place. 



Explanation. The outside covering of the corn kernel 

 and other grains is called the hull. It presents a smooth 

 and somewhat glossy surface. The hull serves as a pro- 

 tection for the main portion of the kernel. Because of its 

 smooth surface it is not likely to adhere to other material 

 or absorb moisture readily from the atmosphere. When 

 placed in water or damp earth, it immediately absorbs 

 moisture. It is necessary for the kernel to absorb mois- 

 ture before it will germinate. 



Equipment. 1. Four washpans. 



2. A balance weighing accurately to one half of one gram. 



3. A large blotter. 



4. A small sample each of dent corn, sweet corn, wheat, 

 and beans. 



Directions. Weigh out twenty-five grams each of dent 

 corn, sweet corn, wheat, and beans. Place each sample in 

 a washpan and pour in enough water to submerge the 

 grain completely. Weigh each sample after it has soaked 

 for 30 minutes, 1 hour, 2 hours, 1 day, and 2 days, respectively, 



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