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Analyzing Select Hydrosphere Protocols on Seasonal Samples of Microplastic Concentrations Amount the Southeast's Rouge River

Organization(s):Crestwood High School
Student(s):Nour Abu Alayna, Sally Nasserdine, Huda Yaseen
Grade Level:Secondary School (grades 9-12, ages 14-18)
GLOBE Teacher:Diana Rae Johns
Contributors:Ms. Tracy Ostrom
Report Type(s):International Virtual Science Symposium Report
Protocols:Air Temperature, Conductivity, pH, Water Temperature, Water Transparency
Presentation Poster: View Document
Optional Badges:I make an Impact, I work with a STEM Professional, I am a STEM Storyteller
Language(s):English
Date Submitted:03/06/2024
Microplastics
This research investigates the potential effects of seasonal changes on concentrations of microplastics and the influence of microplastic concentration on select hydrosphere and atmospheric parameters. Three samples were taken from the Parr Wayside site located in the Middle Branch of the Rouge River. This site was selected due to its proximity to various urban outlets, such as an elementary school, suburban communities, and public parks. Select parameters included conductivity, pH, turbidity, and water and air temperature. The Vernier series helped analyze conductivity, water temperature, and air temperature. In addition, the Hach 2100N turbidimeter and Hach Phenol Red kit were used to measure turbidity and pH, respectively. The researchers findings concluded that turbidity and conductivity are inversely proportional microplastic concentrations. Though pH levels did increase with every sample taken, the correlation was modest. In the future, the researcher hopes to expand the research to include additional hydrosphere parameters and multiple sites along the Lower Branch of the Rouge River to establish possible sources of microplastics in the Rouge River. Increasing the level of understanding in these areas is essential if to develop appropriate policy and management tools to address this emerging issue. Thus, to extend the scope of this research, the researchers hope for the implementation of regulations to monitor the impacts of microplastics as they are still poorly understood.



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