Nitrates from Reservoirs to Your Faucet

Overview

Objectives/Goals My objective was to discover the drinking water source with the highest nitrate level. I hypothesized that Lake Hodges would have the highest nitrate level due to the fact that its sole source of water is run-off. Methods/Materials Three local water sources were tested, 21 trials each, using a nitrate color chart test kit bought at a local fish store. I took a sample of water and added nitrate test powder. The test powder reacted with the nitrates in the water and changed the color of the water if nitrates were present. I compared the color of the water to the color chart to determine the nitrate level. This process was completed over a two week period. Results Results showed that Lake San Vicente had the highest level of nitrates. Its nitrate level was 7.5 ppm. Tap water had the lowest nitrate level with 2 ppm. Lake Hodges had a 5 ppm nitrate level. For water to be drinkable, the nitrate level must be no more than 10 ppm. Conclusions/Discussion The results of this experiment did not support my hypothesis. In conducting this experiment, I learning about the affects of nitrates on people and nature.

Awards (1)

• Category Award

Competition history

• CSEF 2005 Earth Sciences/ Planetary Sciences/ Physical Environments · Entry J0606

Resources

• CSEF project summary ↗

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