Science project
Oil-Absorbing Polymer
On the information level, this experiment serves to acquaint students with the current work in the field of polymer chemistry and some of the practical applications which have been developed in cleaning up our environment. A major step has been in the development of polymers which serve to remove crude oil and other varieties of oils, efficiently and effectively from waters contaminated by oil spills, thereby restoring our environment and safeguarding our wildlife.
On the level of experimenting, this science fair experiment also serves to acquaint students with the essential processes of sciencing such as the importance of the use of a control, of identifying dependent and independent variables, of data collection, of pictorial and graphic presentation of data and of being able to make better judgments as to the validity and reliability of their findings. They take on the role of scientists and in the process they learn to act as one.
Problem:
How effective are polymers in cleaning up an oil spill and thereby protecting the environment?
Materials:
- A polymer designed specifically to remove oil from water
- Motor oil
- Hydraulic oil
- 4 jars or beakers
- 2 graduated cylinders
- Paper towels
- Plastic gloves
- Safety goggles
- Apron
Procedure:
- State the problem you are going to investigate in this science fair project.
- Create the data sheets you will use to record your observations.
- Gather all your materials.
- Put on your rubber gloves, safety glasses and apron.
- Prepare two samples of a mixture of motor oil and water and two samples of Hydraulic oil and water. Use the same amounts of water and oil in earth of the four samples. Note that the oils and water do not mix since oil is not soluble in water.
- Label one of each of the samples as a control. Label the other s as motor oil plus water and hydraulic oil plus water.
- Put your controls aside. Add the same amount of the polymer to each of the oil plus water samples as directed on the package.
- Observe the reactions.
- Compare the samples treated with the polymer with the controls.
- Record the results.
- Take photos of both the controls and the resultant products.
- Prepare your report and include all of the following: a clear statement of the problems, your hypothesis, list the materials used. Include the safety precautions taken. Describe the procedures used. Include all the data that were gathered. Include all charts. Formulate your conclusions. For dramatic value, you may include photos of the materials used or of you in the process of conducting this investigation as well as the results. Be sure to include a bibliography of sources you used. You may wish to assess what you did and describe what you would do differently if you were to do this project again.
Education.com provides the Science Fair Project Ideas for informational purposes only. Education.com does not make any guarantee or representation regarding the Science Fair Project Ideas and is not responsible or liable for any loss or damage, directly or indirectly, caused by your use of such information. By accessing the Science Fair Project Ideas, you waive and renounce any claims against Education.com that arise thereof. In addition, your access to Education.com's website and Science Fair Project Ideas is covered by Education.com's Privacy Policy and site Terms of Use, which include limitations on Education.com's liability.
Warning is hereby given that not all Project Ideas are appropriate for all individuals or in all circumstances. Implementation of any Science Project Idea should be undertaken only in appropriate settings and with appropriate parental or other supervision. Reading and following the safety precautions of all materials used in a project is the sole responsibility of each individual. For further information, consult your state's handbook of Science Safety.
Related learning resources
