Multivariate Factor Analysis of a Rocky Mountain Lichen Set

Authors

S. Aaron Ross, Brigham Young University
Dr. Nolan F. Mangelson, Brigham Young University

Keywords

multivariate factor analysis, Rocky Mountain, lichen set

College

Physical and Mathematical Sciences

Department

Chemistry and Biochemistry

Abstract

Lichens are a symbiotic relationship between a fungus and an alga. They have no root system, so although they grow off rocks and trees, they need to gather their nutrients from the air. Their great dependence on the atmosphere makes them very susceptible to changes in the air. For instance, a high ambient level of pollution particulates could cause the lichens to collect an increased amount of those particles. Because of this sensitivity to the environment, lichens have become a focus point of scientists to determine ambient pollution levels.1

Recommended Citation

Ross, S. Aaron and Mangelson, Dr. Nolan F. (2014) "Multivariate Factor Analysis of a Rocky Mountain Lichen Set," Journal of Undergraduate Research: Vol. 2014: Iss. 1, Article 1093.
Available at: https://scholarsarchive.byu.edu/jur/vol2014/iss1/1093