Goo-Be-Gone: Cleaning Up Oil Spills Project

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reshmamohindra
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Joined: Mon Feb 26, 2018 1:33 pm
Occupation: Parent

Goo-Be-Gone: Cleaning Up Oil Spills Project

Post by reshmamohindra »

Hi
My daughter (3rd grade) is interested in this project for her science fair. We have a few questions:
1. Is it ok to use motor oil to make it more "real" or is it advisable to stick with vegetable oil?
2. In order to save time, should we use multiple coffee filters instead of washing the filter after each reading? What size should we get?
3. Can we parallel process all four sorbents at the same time?
Thanks
Reshma

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EmmaGriffiths
Student Expert
Posts: 43
Joined: Sun Jul 28, 2019 11:20 am
Occupation: Student

Re: Goo-Be-Gone: Cleaning Up Oil Spills Project

Post by EmmaGriffiths »

Hi Reshma,

I’m happy to hear about your daughter’s interest in this project! It’s definitely important to start thinking about the environment at a young age.

I’d stay away from using motor oil, which can be very dangerous if ingested. For a younger student, vegetable oil should get the job done with minimal risks.

I don’t see why multiple filters would be a problem, but if you use multiple different ones, be sure to use identical filters so the results are more accurate. I do encourage you to stick to reusable models (which are more eco-friendly). As for the size, I don’t think it matters as long as you are consistent. The ones I have seen online are generally the same size, give or take an inch or two.

As for your last question, I’d say that you can carry out the procedure however you see fit, but remember that your results may be effected depending on how you change the given directions. I wouldn’t test all four in the same cup at the same time, but there is no problem with testing all four in separate cups at the same time.

Thank you so much for your patience, and good luck with your project!

Emma
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