Determination of Conductivity of Water – Lab Experiment
Electrical conductivity is an important parameter used to measure the ability of water to conduct electricity. It depends on the presence of dissolved ions such as salts, minerals, and other inorganic substances in water.
The higher the concentration of dissolved salts in water, the greater the conductivity. Therefore, conductivity measurement is widely used to evaluate water quality and the level of dissolved impurities.
Aim
To determine the electrical conductivity of a given water sample using a conductivity meter.
Apparatus Required
- Conductivity meter
- Conductivity cell or probe
- Beakers
- Distilled water
- Water sample
- Tissue paper
Theory
Electrical conductivity is defined as the measure of the ability of water to carry an electric current. It occurs due to the presence of dissolved ions such as sodium, calcium, magnesium, chloride, and sulfate.
Conductivity is usually expressed in microsiemens per centimeter (µS/cm) or millisiemens per centimeter (mS/cm). Pure distilled water has very low conductivity, while wastewater generally has higher conductivity due to dissolved impurities.
Procedure
- Switch on the conductivity meter and allow it to stabilize.
- Rinse the conductivity probe with distilled water.
- Pour the water sample into a clean beaker.
- Immerse the conductivity probe into the water sample.
- Wait until the reading becomes stable.
- Record the conductivity value displayed on the meter.
Observation
| Sample | Conductivity (µS/cm) | Remarks |
|---|---|---|
| Water Sample | ______ | ______ |
Result
The electrical conductivity of the given water sample was determined using a conductivity meter.
Conductivity of the sample = ______ µS/cm
Precautions
- Calibrate the conductivity meter before use.
- Rinse the probe with distilled water before and after measurement.
- Avoid touching the probe with bare hands.
- Ensure the probe is fully immersed in the water sample.
Conclusion
The conductivity test helps determine the amount of dissolved salts and impurities in water. Higher conductivity indicates a higher concentration of dissolved ions and possible contamination in the water sample.
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