Alter the rate of flow of water to measure change in electrical resistance

[erckle]

Homework Statement

Hi

I need help with designing an apparatus to test my aim.

Aim: Does the speeding up/slowing down of the rate of flow of water affect its electrical resistance.

I need to create an apparatus in which I can alter the rate of flow of water and test the electrical resistance of that water while it is flowing.

Obviously I will test the resistance of water while stationary but I am yet to devise a way to change the rate of flow and measure it empirically.

The materials I have at my disposal are those of a general high school science lab.

The Attempt at a Solution

I thought that perhaps if water was flowing at a steeper gradient, this might make it flow faster...is this correct.

Also, someone suggested something using a height difference and pressure gradient. I am not enitrely sure what that is. If someone could explain that concept and how it might be applied that would be good too.

Thanks

 

[anathema]

Hello,

Thank you for sharing your aim and your materials with us. Designing an apparatus to test your aim will require some careful planning and consideration. Here are a few suggestions for your apparatus design:

1. Flow Rate Control: To alter the rate of flow of water, you can use a pump or a valve to control the flow of water. A pump will increase the flow rate while a valve can be used to decrease the flow rate. You can also use a flowmeter to measure the flow rate of water and make adjustments accordingly.

2. Electrical Resistance Measurement: To measure the electrical resistance of the water, you will need a multimeter. This can be connected to the water circuit to measure the resistance while the water is flowing.

3. Height Difference and Pressure Gradient: As you mentioned, a height difference and pressure gradient can also be used to change the flow rate of water. This can be achieved by using a column of water with different heights at each end. The water will flow from the higher end to the lower end due to the pressure gradient. You can then measure the flow rate and the electrical resistance at different heights to see the effect on the resistance.

4. Control Variables: It is important to keep all other variables constant while conducting your experiment. This includes the temperature of the water, the type of water used, and the distance between the electrodes used to measure the resistance.

I hope these suggestions help in designing your apparatus. Good luck with your experiment!