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Investigating Nappy Absorbency

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Discussion…

  • What are nappies and what is their purpose?
  • Recap the concept of absorbency and why it is important for nappies - link learning back to the famous scientist Kiara Nirghin and her superabsorbent polymer.
  • How do consumers decide which brand/type to choose: what are the key requirements/options? (e.g. price, recycled, washable, long-lasting etc).

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Today we’re going to explore super absorbent polymers by investigating nappies!

Begin by watching the clip:

How Diapers Work -- Chemistry for Kids (youtube.com)

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Task 1: Explore the super absorbent polymer

Follow the instructions in the clip to extract and observe the super absorbent polymer. You could use a microscope to look more closely!

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Task 2 - Now plan and carry out a fair test to compare the absorbency of different brand nappies!

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You will explore the absorbency of different brands of nappies by conducting an experiment to measure how much liquid each nappy can hold.

  • Begin by predicting which brand of nappy you think will be the most absorbent and why.
  • Follow the steps of the experiment in groups and record your measurements:
    • Weigh each dry nappy and record the weight.
    • Slowly pour a measured amount of water into the nappy until it starts to leak.
    • Weigh the wet nappy and calculate the amount of water absorbed by subtracting the dry weight from the wet weight.
    • Record the amount of water each nappy can hold.

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  • Your group might decide to conduct repeat readings for reliability?
  • Remember the importance of accurate measurement and recording in scientific experiments.

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Data Collection table

Nappy Brand

Dry Weight (g)

Wet Weight (g)

Water Absorbed (g)

Brand A

50

200

150

Brand B

45

190

145

Brand C

55

210

155

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Data Collection and Analysis

  • Each group will now share their results with the class.
  • Create a class data table showing the absorbency of each brand of nappy.
  • Use the data to create graphs (bar graphs are a good choice for this experiment) showing the absorbency of each brand.

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Conclusion

Discuss the results as a class. Which brand of nappy was the most absorbent? Was this in line with your prediction?

  • Discuss any factors that might have affected the results (e.g., how the water was poured, the consistency of the nappies).

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  • Reflect on the key findings of the experiment.
  • Reinforce the importance of absorbency in nappies and how this experiment can help consumers make informed choices.

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Just because we can, should we?...