Measuring pH of Direct and Throughfall Rain

A Rising Tide Project for Grades 11 and 12

Main

Classroom Activities
   pH
   Ions

Resources and Links

Glossary

Main l Classroom Activity l Objectives l Standards Addressed l Background l Methods/Teacher Guide l Rubric l Resources

This activity was developed by Mrs. Rebecca Ward, a high school science teacher at Socastee High School in Socastee, SC and Heather Young, an undergraduate marine science major at Coastal Carolina University. It is based on their research with Dr. Jane Guentzel, a marine science professor at Coastal Carolina University. The activity was reviewed by Dr. Guentzel and revised after being tested in the classroom.

Focus Question:
Is there a difference in pH or Major ions between  rain samples that are collected in an open field compared to rain samples collected in a forest?

Activity Synopsis:
Students will:

1. Describe the problem; gather information about pH, precipitation, and acid rain; declare an hypothesis;  write an explanation for the reasoning of the hypothesis. 
2. Follow instructions to implement experimental design, calibrate a pH meter; measure and record data, construct data charts, implement mathematical concepts for data analysis, implement scientific concepts for proper measurement and recording of data, construct a bar graph. 
3. Interpret data and write a conclusion supported by scientific data. 

Time Frame:
Three 90 minute class sections.

Keywords:

Acid                                       Neutralization                                          
Acid Rain                              Leaching
Base                                        pH, pH scale, pH meter         
Calibrate                              Pollution
Deposition                            Precipitation
Hydronium ion                     Sulfur dioxide
Hydroxide ion                       Throughfall
Indicator