GCSE Science Chemistry ISA Method Viscosity



Hypothesis

The viscosity of oil depends on its temperature.


Equipment


  • Vegetable oil in a test tube
  • Beaker
  • Thermometer
  • Pipette
  • White tile
  • Ruler 
  • Clamp stand, boss and clamp
  • Stopwatch
  • Hot water/kettle

Method

Boil some water in a kettle and pour it into a beaker. Place the test tube of vegetable oil into the beaker and a thermometer into the test tube. Wait a few minutes until the oil has reached the same temperature as the hot water. Angle a white tile so it's sloping downwards and is held securely by a clamp stand. Using the ruler mark a line 5 cm long going straight down the tile. Take the pipette and fill it with oil, releasing it on the top of the line on the tile. Using the stopwatch, time how long it takes for the oil to flow down the tile and travel 5 cm. Record this time. Let the oil in the test tube cool slightly and repeat for a range of temperatures.


Variables

Independent - temperature of oil
Dependent - time taken to flow down tile (the more viscous the oil, the longer this will take)
Control - Angle of tile, volume of oil, distance oil flows (5cm)


Risk assessment

This is a very safe experiment but care must be taken handling the hot water from the kettle. The risk is low but goggles should be worn when pouring hot water.

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