The diagram below illustrates an experimental set-up in soil analysis. Study it carefully and answer...
The diagram below illustrates an experimental set-up in soil analysis.Study it carefully and answerthe questions that follow.
(a) State the aim of the illustrated experiment.
(b) Name the part labelledI,II,III andIV.
(c) A fresh sample of soil weighed 60g. A container weighing 35g was used to dry the soil. If both the soil and the container weighed 80 g after the experiment, determine the:
(i) weight of the dried soil;
(ii) weight of the water lost from the soil;
(iii) percentage of water lost from the soil.
(d) Listthree forms in which water exists in the soil.
Explanation
(a) Aim of the illustrated experiment
Determination of moisture content of a soil sample or organic matter content of the soil.
(b)Labelled parts in the illustrated experiment
I - Evaporating dish/ crucible
II - Soil
III - Tripod stand
IV - Bunsen burner
(c) (i)Weight of dried soil
Weight of empty evaporating dish = 35g
Weight of dish + dried soil = 80g
Weight of dried soil only = (80 - 35)g
= 45g
(ii)Weight of water lost from the soil
(60 - 45)g
= 15g
OR
(95 - 80)g
= 15g