Product Summary
The PASPORT Ethanol Sensor measures the concentration of gaseous ethanol up to 3%. In biology and environmental science labs, students can learn about anaerobic respiration by measuring the production of ethanol by bacterial or yeast fermentation. Physics and chemistry students can begin to explore combustion and thermodynamics. Connect your students to the study of respiration and alternative energy sources with the PASPORT Ethanol Sensor.
Note: This is a gas sensor - it should not be submerged in liquids. If exposed to gases with ethanol concentrations above the recommended maximum of 3% the sensor element will be depleted.
Setup
Calibration Technique (see instruction manual)
For accurate measurements, first calibrate the sensor. You will need a solution of 1% ethanol in water. The solution should be at the same temperature as the solutions to be measured.
Calibration data is stored in the sensor’s memory and it persists until the sensor is calibrated again, even if the sensor is unplugged from the interface.
- Connect the sensor to an interface as described in the manual.
- Place the probe above the 1% ethanol solution (depending on how it will be used for later measurements).
- Observe the ethanol concentration reading in software or on the datalogger.
- Wait until the reading stabilizes.
- Press and hold the 1% CAL button on the sensor for 4 s.
Immediately after a successful calibration, the sensor’s output reads 1%, and the button is illuminated.
Precautions
Do not expose the probe to a gas containing more than 3% ethanol, including the gas above alcoholic beverages. Higher ethanol concentrations will deplete the sensing element. Note that the gas above a liquid contains about the same concentration of ethanol as the liquid itself.
Ensure that the membrane is installed and intact before immersing the end of the probe. The membrane prevents the sensing element from getting wet. If the sensing element accidentally gets wet, rinse and dry it quickly. Note that the probe may be degraded or destroyed if the membrane is ruptured or compromised.
Do not immerse the probe. The membrane (if it is in good condition) will protect the probe in case of accidental immersion. However, the probe is designed for use in gas only.
Applications
- Monitor yeast activity by monitoring ethanol production at different temperatures, with different concentrations of sugar, or with different types of sugars.
What's Included
- 1x Probe
- 1x Sensor electronics amplifier
- 1x PTFE tape for membranes
Product Specifications
| Range | 0% to 3% gaseous ethanol |
| Accuracy | 20% of reading |
Data Collection Software
This product requires PASCO software for data collection and analysis. We recommend the following option(s). For more information on which is right for your classroom, see our Software Comparison: SPARKvue vs. Capstone »
Interface Required
This product requires a PASCO Interface to connect to your computer or device. We recommend the following option(s). For a breakdown of features, capabilities, and additional options, see our Interface Comparison Guide »
Buying Guide
| Recommended Accessories |
P/N |
Price |
|
EcoChamber
To collect and analyze data on cellular respiration or fermentation with yeast using an Ethanol Sensor, an EcoChamber is recommended along with a magnetic stirrer.
|
ME-6667 |
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|
Magnetic Stirrer
|
SE-7700 |
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Experiment Library
Perform the following experiments and more with the PASPORT Ethanol Sensor.
Visit PASCO's Experiment Library to view more activities.
Advanced Placement / Biology
In this lab, students determine the ability of yeast to use different types of carbohydrates—sucrose and starch—for fermentation and monitor the reaction using an ethanol sensor to differentiate this process from respiration.
Advanced Placement • High School / Biology
Students use an ethanol sensor to determine the ability of yeast to use different types of carbohydrates—sucrose and starch—for fermentation.
