Investigate how different soils influence the movement of contaminants. Related Resources Check out this link to see a Groundwater Flow Diagram. This is a link to a graphic of Goundwater Contamination from waste disposal sites. A list of Sources of groundwater contamination. Students will measure soil volume and make visual observations about water movement through soil.
Percolation is the downward flow or seepage of water through the pores of rocks and soil.
The following is a list of materials that should be distributed to each lab group participating in this activity. 4 Large Paper cups, sand, topsoil, gravel,4 plastic coffee can lids or similar objects, cheesecloth or nylon stockings, rubber bands,four 250 ml beakers, thumbtacks, stopwatch. Students should use a paperclip to poke several holes in the bottom and lower portion of each. Each cup should have the same number of holes located approximately in the same spots. Put a piece of cheese cloth over the bottom of each cup so that the holes are covered, and secure the cheese cloth with a rubber band.