National Standards for Grade Levels 9-12
 
In Physical & Chemical Resources of the Ocean, students examine salt, the most obvious property of seawater, and one of its most valuable resources. In four experiments students learn methods for measuring salinity and explore how salt can be removed from seawater. Experiments include: Determining Salinity by Evaporation, Determining Salinity Using a Hydrometer, Desalination by Freezing, and Desalination Using a Solar Still. Students learn about the amazingly uniform composition of seawater and how varying salt concentrations play a role in the creation of ocean currents. Allow five class periods for experimentation. Designed for 24 students work in groups of four.
 
Required, not included:
refrigerator or freezer
hot plate
balance (x .01g)
chloride/salinity test kit
and laboratory glassware