You have read that scientists can identify an unknown compound by using chemical reactions. This process is very useful if an unknown dangerous chemical is discovered in a local body of water. Scientists can perform tests to discover what the unknown compound is, and then they can find ways to clean the polluted water.
Write a report about how scientists can test water for pollutants and dangerous chemical compounds. First, conduct research on the topic. Here are some questions to guide your research:
What are some ways by which scientists can test water quality?
What pollutants can contaminate Earth's waters?
What steps do scientists take to identify unknown compounds?
Why is identifying unknown dangerous compounds a useful process?
Are you ready? Begin by visiting the Web sites in Step 2. Look for answers to the questions above, and write down what you learn in the note-taking boxes.
With teacher supervision, you may use search engines to research other Web sites. You also can research water testing at the library. When you are ready, follow Steps 3 and 4 to write your report.
Step 2. Research
Research answers to the questions you were asked in Step 1. Visit these Web sites. Take notes about them on this page, too!
Toolbox Tip: Click here to learn how to copy and paste information from a Web page into a new file.
