Search for Science Fair Projects

1000 Science Fair Projects with Complete Instructions

Investigating Dissolved Oxygen

Investigating Dissolved Oxygen

Medium
Share this Science Project:
This page contains full project details. For the summary, please see the Project Summary.

Science Fair Project Description

While most of us do not give much thought to water quality, serious aquarists are keenly aware of the importance of maintaining water quality. But while aquarists are careful to maintain ph, nitrates, and ammonia levels, many do not give the same attention to the level of dissolved oxygen (DO). An understanding of the relationship between temperature and DO is the subject of this science project. With the understanding gained from this experiment, you will have insight on how tropical and cold water fish are able to survive in their respective environments.
Complexity level:5
Time required:Does not include time required to obtain a water quality kit, which may be purchased online or at an aquarium shop.
Safety concerns:This science fair project involves an electric aquarium heater and water as well as chemicals contained in the water quality kit. Appropriate care should be taken to avoid injuries.

Overview

Sub-atomic particles are more active at higher temperatures, resulting in oxygen atoms breaking their molecular bonds. Water is composed of one hydrogen atom and two oxygen atoms. Once the atomic bond is broken, the oxygen atoms break free, resulting in there being less oxygen in the water. At cooler temperatures, there is less activity at the atomic level; hence, oxygen is retained in the water. At the other extreme, all oxygen is lost when water is boiled. Some warm water fish species have adapted to lower levels of oxygen in water, by obtaining additional oxygen from the atmosphere.

Scientific Terms

Dissolved oxygen

Materials

  • Three large jars
  • Aquarium heater
  • Water quality kit
  • Refrigerator
  • Paper
  • Pen or pencil
  • Thermometer

Procedure

  1. Prepare three large jars or beakers of with water and label the jars A, B, and C. Check the DO level using the water quality kit.
  2. Record the DO level for each jar on a piece of paper.
  3. Set jar A in a safe place and let it sit for five days at room temperature.
  4. For jar B: Place the aquarium heater and set for 80 degrees Fahrenheit (27 Celcius.). Maintain the temperature for five days.
  5. For jar C: Place the jar in the refrigerator for five days. The temperature within the refrigerator should typically be at 35-38 degrees Fahrenheit (2-3 degrees Celcius.)
  6. At the end of five days, check the DO level for all three jars.
  7. What changes can you observe in the DO of each of the three jars?

Related videos

Hey there! Here are some awesome videos about this science project that we think you'll really like. They're not only super fun, but they'll also help you learn more about the science behind the project. So sit back, relax, and get ready to have some fun!!
Share this Science Project:

Related Science Fair Project Ideas

Investigating River Pollution
Let's find out if the water upstream is cleaner than the water downstream!
Medium
The Effects of Gasoline Fumes on Plants
Can gasoline fumes kill plants? Find out in this science project!
Medium
The Effect of Detergents on Plants
Can detergents really kill plants? Find out in this experiment!
Medium