A Pollution Study
Introduction
The study of environmental problems is an important component of an environmental science course. Some of the environmental problems that can be conveniently studied using probeware are: acid deposition (pH Sensor and Conductivity Probe), heat islands and temperature inversion (Temperature Probe), indoor air pollution (CO2 Gas Sensor), soil salinization (Conductivity Probe), and water pollution (Conductivity Probe, Dissolved Oxygen Probe, pH Sensor, Temperature Probe, Turbidity Sensor, and other sensors).
Because there are many different sensors that you might choose to use in this experiment, the sequence will differ from the usual sequence in that you will choose a researchable question prior to the Preliminary Activity.
Objectives
In this experiment, you will use reference sources to find out more about environmental problems, choose a researchable question, do the Preliminary Activity, and then you will do your research.
Your teacher will suggest a procedure for your Preliminary Activity that is tailored to your needs based on your chosen research question, the sensor(s) you will use, and your previous probeware experience.
Sensors and Equipment
This investigation requires each of the following Vernier sensors and equipment (unless otherwise noted):
Stainless Steel Temperature Probe (optional)
Relative Humidity Sensor (optional)
Soil Moisture Sensor (optional)
pH Sensor (optional)
Conductivity Probe (optional)
Dissolved Oxygen Probe (optional)
Turbidity Sensor (optional)
CO2 Gas Sensor (optional)
Additional Requirements
You may also need an interface and software for data collection. What do I need for data collection?
Download Experiment Preview
The student-version preview includes:
- Step-by-step instructions for the Preliminary Activity
- List of materials and equipment
Note: The experiment preview of the Preliminary Activity does not include essential teacher information, safety tips, or sample data. Instructions for Logger Pro and other software (such as LabQuest App or TI handheld software, where available) are on the CD that accompanies the book. We strongly recommend that you purchase the book before performing experiments.
Standards Correlations
See all standards correlations for Investigating Environmental Science through Inquiry »
Experiment 34 from Investigating Environmental Science through Inquiry Lab Book
Included in the Lab Book
Vernier lab books include a CD with word-processing files of the student instructions, essential teacher information, suggested answers, sample data and graphs, and more.