What is the estimated size of an oil molecule?

[Mackenzie Peterson]

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

Evidence - If put in water and baby powder, a patch of oil, a patch of oil spreads out across the water. The patch of oil is only a molecule thick therefore the thickness of the oil layer equals the size of the molecule. The volume of the drop and the area of the spread oil drop are recorded.

Explanation - Since the volume of the oil drop equals the area of the spread out oil times the height, one needs to solve for the height to get the size of the oil molecule. By taking measurements of the volume and the area, one can simply plug in the numbers and use basic algebra to solve for the height. 

Connection - This lab requires use of knowing how to calculate significant figures to accurately measure the oil, metric conversions, and scientific notation, all of which we learned about in this chapter. It also uses algebra to figure out the height of then oil molecule.

Communication - To help others understand the math behind this lab, the student should show the steps used to figure out the size of an oil molecule. By having the steps already written down or writing them down and explaining as he or she goes, the student can turn this chemistry lab into a math lesson. Math always makes logic sense, so it's something others can follow.

Reflection - Allie and I both learned to be precise and not to rush things when measuring, because it could mess up your whole lab if accurate measurements are not taken. Allie and I also agree on how to communicate the math to the class so they have a better understanding before they get into the lab.