Ecology: Dissolved Oxygen and Water Pollution

Discover how the dissolved oxygen concentration of water is affected by pollution.

Motion Sensors

Watch the dissolved oxygen concentration decrease as the water temperature increases, mimicking thermal pollution. Then, investigate other variables and discuss how polluted water effects organisms that depend on dissolved oxygen for survival. Enlarge graph.

Lab Summary:

In this exploration, students will use a dissolved oxygen sensor to examine the effect of three common types of water pollution -- thermal, biodegradable, and chemical -- on dissolved oxygen levels.

Download Free Lab  (PDF, 436 KB)

(student version)

Method:

Use the Dissolved Oxygen Sensor to examine the effect of three common types of water pollution -- thermal, biodegradable, and chemical -- on dissolved oxygen levels.

Here's What You Need:

Probeware

Other Materials

  • Clean, opaque containers with lids, (2)
  • Clean containers with lids
  • Beaker, 250-mL
  • Pipet with bulb
  • Balance
  • Hot Plate
  • Wash bottle and Waste container
  • Labels and labeling pens
  • Water, 5.0 L
  • Elodea or similar plant, 1 sprig
  • Liquid Fertilizer, 3 drops
  • Soluble solid fertilizer, 3.5 g
  • Soil sample, 5.0 g
  • Sodium Sulfite (Na2SO3), 2.0 M, 3 drops

Lab Manual:

This activity is included in Explorations in Biology (PS-2807), complete with Teacher Information pages, student instructions and handouts, and sample data for a total of 25 probeware-based labs. For your convenience, we offer bundles which provide the probeware necessary for the activities in the manual. For more information on these resources and bundles, click here.