Oil molecule research discussion

[Jared McCully]

Scientifically oriented question-What is the estimated size of an oil molecule?

evidence- The first step we followed was the diameter of the oil droplet and that was 0.5mm. We then found the radius of that which was 0.25 mm.  After that we looked to find the volume of a sphere using length*width*height and we came to our answer of 0.035cm^3 , which was our volume of the oil droplet. Then we found the area of the oil on the powder using the formula pir^2 and got 1.13cm^2. To get the thickness of the oil layer we the divided 0.0565cm^3 by 1.13cm^2 which came out to 0.05cm and we eventually got the size of the oil molecule to be 0.05cm.

Explanation - The whole purpose of the lab was to find the size of the oil molecule. According to the results it appears that the thickness of the oil molecule is also the estimated size of the oil molecule. After using many formulas to find the area and volume of the oil we came out to the conclusion of the estimated size to be 0.05cm

Connection- This lab and the skills acquired through it could be used to help estimate the surface area an oil spill like the one in the gulf covered. The thickness or estimated size could be used as a way for emergency or cleanup workers to schedule their work around and possibly contain the oil spill. Another possible use of this lab is to understand the use of nanotechnology. Nanotech can be measured exactly like the oil molecule and with that knowledge a scientists can use nanotechnology to create medicines.

Communication-With acquired skill set with this lab, my group will now be able to help others  how to do it too through volume, area, and the other variables needed for the process in measuring a nano particle. We can also use the skills learned in other labs that need calculations. The best way to communicate the curriculum would be through more labs similar to this one to help solidify the techniques with the students.

Reflections- After comparing my results with other labs i have found that my results are very similar to the other groups but not exactly the same. I believe the lab should be repeated several times until reliable results are found and can be given credibility to study upon. The concept of measuring the size of a nano particle through calculations is simple and it appears through measuring the size of an oil molecule most of the students understand the concept.