and inconsistent filtration process. The coffee filters may have impeded the flow of water, potentially resulting in a slower filtration rate and allowing contaminants to remain in the water for a longer period before passing through. Additionally, the differing rates of filtration could have led to variations in pH levels, skewing the overall results for the coffee filter medium.
-
Another factor to consider is the size and nature of the contaminants present in the polluted water. Different filtration media may target specific sizes and types of particles, influencing their effectiveness. For instance, sand has a greater surface area and can trap more particles compared to cotton balls, which may also explain the variance in pH levels after filtration.
-
In future experiments, it would be beneficial to standardize the amount and type of pollutants in the water sample and to ensure that all filtration media are secured properly to avoid inconsistencies. Implementing a more controlled approach could yield more reliable data on the effectiveness of each filtration method.
-
Ultimately, while our hypothesis about cotton balls being the most effective was proven incorrect, this experiment provided valuable insights into the relative effectiveness of different filtration methods. The results suggest a need for further testing and optimization of filtration systems, especially in contexts where water purification is essential. The findings also highlight the importance of experimental design in achieving accurate and meaningful results.