Are ping-pong balls hydrophobic?

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  • Thread starter Thread starter 333cory333
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SUMMARY

This discussion centers on the hydrophobic properties of ping-pong balls, which are made from cellulose. The inquiry specifically explores whether coating the balls with substances like sesame oil or grease alters their hydrophobicity. Participants emphasize the importance of conducting experiments to determine the effects of these coatings and suggest measuring techniques to assess hydrophobic characteristics. Engaging in hands-on experimentation is encouraged to derive conclusive results.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of hydrophobicity and surface tension
  • Familiarity with cellulose material properties
  • Basic experimental design and measurement techniques
  • Knowledge of oil and grease interactions with surfaces
NEXT STEPS
  • Conduct experiments comparing uncoated and oil-coated ping-pong balls
  • Research methods for measuring hydrophobicity, such as contact angle measurement
  • Explore the chemical properties of cellulose and its interaction with various coatings
  • Investigate the role of surface tension in determining hydrophobic behavior
USEFUL FOR

Students, educators, and researchers in physics and materials science who are interested in surface chemistry and hydrophobicity. This discussion is particularly beneficial for those conducting experiments related to material properties and interactions.

333cory333
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Hello, everyone!
I'm conducting an experiment in a lab
and while setting parameters, this question came to my mind.
Are ping-pong balls hydrophobic? (They are made out of cellulose)
And if sesame oil or grease is coated on the surface, do they become hydrophobic?
Thanks, as always :approve:
 
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Hi 333cory333! Welcome to Physics Forums!

What experiments have you already tried? Have you tried comparing the balls with and without oil or grease yet? How can you measure if a ping-pong ball is hydrophobic or not? No one here will spoon-feed you information if you haven't even tried experimenting yourself first. Click on "Rules" above. After you do your experiments and testing, post your results here, along with any of your questions or doubts. Members here are always ready and willing to assist a true searcher trying to learn science.

Cheers,
Bobbywhy
 
Deleted
 
Deleted.
 
CWatters said:
Deleted

Wait! What! Was that image wrong?

It is burned into my brain!

bad at chemistry dyslexics :cry:
 
Deleted because I thought I was making it too easy for you :-)
 
I still haven't found out a certain answer, but I'm surely progressing!
Thanks for your consideration :)
 

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