A Water Field Study
Recommended for grades 5–8.
Introduction
When finding water quality, there are many measurements that can be made. In this experiment, you will measure water temperature, conductivity, and pH. Water temperatures in streams can range from 0°C in the winter to above 30°C in the summer. Cooler water in a stream is generally considered healthier than warmer water. Problems generally occur when changes in water temperature are noted along one stream on the same day.
Objectives
In this experiment, you will
- Use a Temperature Probe to measure water temperature.
- Use a Conductivity Probe to measure the conductivity of water.
- Use a pH Sensor to measure the pH of water.
- Make visual observations at the test sites.
- Compare water quality.
Sensors and Equipment
This experiment requires each of the following Vernier sensors and equipment (unless otherwise noted):
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 computer-based data collection
- List of materials and equipment
Note: The experiment preview of the computer edition 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 Middle School Science with Vernier »
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.