Science Buddies: "Ask an Expert"

How much weight can eggshells gain if soaked for 1 day in water on average? And why do they gain weight? Thanks

Hi,

I'm a little confused by your question. Is this in regard to your science project? If so, what was the procedure and how did it involve eggshells? Were the shells whole, in pieces, ground up, dried, fresh? We cannot give you accurate information if you do not provide the details of how you did the experiment.

Please post again and explain why you need to know how much water eggshells absorb. Hopefully we can help you.

Sybee

Hi yes sorry. the eggshells are fresh , in pieces . I have also removed the membrane. Unfortunately I have lost my results and running out of time thank you very much

I wish i had an answer to your question, but i'm afraid that's something that depends on the egg shells--how thick they are, how fresh, how they were stored and maybe even whether they are brown or white. Also, what makes you think that an eggshell will absorb any water at all? Air can pass through the shell, but not water.

I would suggest that you do a quick experiment with some eggshells and a sensitive balance. You don't have to leave them in water for 24 hr. 12 hr would be long enough. I would test 5 pieces of shell so you can do statistical analysis on the weights. Also, weigh another 5 pieces and leave them in the air for 12 hr as your control.

You said you lost your results before. What did the results show?

Good luck,

Sybee