Conductivity of Saltwater: The Effect of Concentration
Recommended for grades 6–12.
Introduction
If an ionic solid is dissolved in water, ions are released and the resulting solution will conduct electricity. Dissolving solid sodium chloride (table salt) in water releases ions according to the equation
In this experiment, you will study the effect on electrical conductivity of increasing sodium chloride concentration. Electrical conductivity will be measured as the ion concentration of the solution being monitored is gradually increased by the addition of concentrated NaCl drops. A Conductivity Probe, attached to a computer, will be used to measure electrical conductivity. Conductivity is measured in microsiemens (μS/cm).
Objectives
In this experiment, you will
- Measure conductivity.
- Record data.
- Graph this data.
- Use the data and graph to make conclusions about conductivity.
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 Physical 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.