This experiment will help us “see” air pollutionthe presence of substances above the natural level in the air Sources• https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK368034/... More. We will also be able to compare the air inside and outside. What do you think causes these differences?
EQUIPMENT:
- Tape and a marker to label
- 2 plastic containers
- Petroleum jelly
- Graph paper and a pencil
- Rubber gloves
- Magnifying glass (optional)
- Level: Moderate
- Theme: Outdoor air quality
- Entry evidence: To get credit for this activity, take a picture of your experiment results and have a grown-up submit the challenge form. Complete 3 challenges and we will plant a tree.
METHOD:
Step one
Using the marker and tape, label the two clear plastic containers. Label one “inside air” and the other “outside air.”
Step two:
Wearing rubber gloves, spread a layer of petroleum jelly on the bottom of each of the containers. Try to make an even layer.
Step three:
Place the “inside air” container somewhere in the classroom that won’t be disturbed. Make sure to keep the lid off and leave the jelly exposed to the air.
Step four:
Place the “outside air” container somewhere outside that won’t be disturbed. Try to avoid putting it under any trees or covered spaces. Make sure to keep the lid off and leave the jelly exposed to the air.
*Note: it is best to do this experiment when it is not supposed to rain or snow as this will disrupt the particles in the air.
Step five:
Leave the two open containers to collect particles from the air. After 2 days, check on the containers. Bring them back to the classroom and place them on top of graph paper. Use the graph paper to help count how many particles you can see per box. You can use a magnifying glass to help count the small particles. How many particles can you count in the “inside air” container? Is it more or less than the “outside air” one? Record observations and take pictures comparing your results.
