What is the estimated size of an oil Molecule?

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Zoe Elefterin

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Sep 30, 2012, 9:26:47 PM9/30/12

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

Evidence- In this lab, we were expected to calculate the size of an oil molecule using a flat container of water with a thin layer of powder on the surface of the water. We then proceeded to a 5mm drop of oil into the container. The oil started to spread so we could then calculate the volume of the oil drop which we concluded was .0654mm. Then we calculated the area of the spread oil drop which was about 19.63mm^2. Next, we calculated the thickness of the oil layer which was 3.69x10^-4mm, therefore the size of the oil molecule was 3.69x10^-4mm.

Explanation- We were able to conclude the volume, area, and thickness of the oil layer using mathematic equations. When calculating the volume of the oil drop we used the formula V=(4/3)πr^3. Then we calculated the area of the spread oil drop using the formula A=πr^2H and we ended up with 3.69x10^-4mm which was also the size of an oil molecule.

Connection- Doing a lab like this really shows the importance of nanotechnology. Scientists, engineers, doctors and others use this branch of engineering on molecular scales because at times, when dealing with medicine, environment, energy, information and communication, industry and consumer goods, these people have to be able to make sure that things are exact right down to the atomic level. From the manufacturing of sunscreen to the cell phone in your hand, nanotechnology fits into almost every facet of modern life.

Communication- I think the best way to communicate my newfound knowledge of nanotechnology is to take samples of everyday objects and watch in in-depth demonstration of how they are produced. Then, we will be able to see just how important it is to make sure that the calculations and amounts of particles that would go into the making of, for example, a medication. Just one nano-sized mistake could cause the failure of the production of some everyday items.

Reflection- While most of our results concluded to be quite similar, there was a variation in the other students and my own calculations. It really did come down to human error though. We didn’t have the type of technology to all have the same amount of water or powder in the container, nor did we all have the exact same amount of oil.