I enjoyed this project because it allowed me to research a molecule that I often use. I was able to learn and understand the different aspects to ethanol. Before this project I probably would not have done much research on ethanol, or even study the molecule in such depth.
The most interesting thing that I learned about ethanol is how it is an exceptional alternative for gasoline, and how it helps eliminate greenhouse gases. Large emissions of carbon dioxide and other harmful chemicals are constantly being released into the atmosphere, therefore any beneficial alternative for this occurring issue is highly accepted. Some challenges I faced in completing this project were trying to balance the work that went into this project along with my other studies. A lot of time went into doing research, which actually is a benefit because it enhanced my skills in being a diligent researcher. I also struggled with some of the calculations, but prevailed in the end! It was interesting how the material for the emolecule project matched up with the material being covered in lecture. This project allowed me to not only study my molecule but also relate it to the material and calculations being done in class. It helped me understand Hess’s Law better, and how to calculate the formation of enthalpy! |
Chemistry is LIFE! Molecules constantly surround us even though we cannot see them! This project enabled me to fully comprehend the laws of chemistry and how the mathematics is incorporated in a step-by-step process. I was able to understand the chemical and physical properties of ethanol.
One thing I would like to know more about ethanol is how it will effect the environment long term. I noticed there was an abundant amount of studies done on ethanol and how its properties allow it to be a better alternative than gasoline. Today, the environment is deteriorating fast due to fossil fuel emissions, which are constantly being released from cars and big industrial plants. If ethanol could be a solution to help cease these emissions, it would be an interesting concept for scientists to consider and change the world. One experiment that I would like to do is to build an ethanol-fueled rocket. Ethanol is a grain alcohol and extremely flammable. Therefore, when it burns, it gives off a lot of energy. Ethanol coats the inside of a 2 liter bottle and excess ethanol is poured out, leaving only the ethanol and the air to react. A flame is lit and place near the opening of the bottle. As the flame is introduced to the opening, the combustion happens inside the container, the gases are ejected allowing the bottle to shoot backwards. Overall, this project was interesting and was a great way to enhance researching skills. I enjoyed learning about ethanol and how it related to my field of study, which is the formulation and development cosmetics! I have obtained plenty of knowledge on the molecule but there is so much more information that I am eager to research. |
Sources
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