HOUSEHOLD CHEMISTRY RESEARCH ASSIGNMENT
Description:
Homes are filled with many types of chemicals that are used for a variety of
purposes. They range from simple disinfectants such as isopropyl alcohol to extremely
caustic solutions such as oven cleaner. However, most products do not list their
ingredients and only provide warnings for their use.
Your job is to individually create an “info guide” on a household product that would help
a curious consumer (Mrs Stelling or Mr Liptay for example) make an informed choice
about buying and using that product.
This can be presented in one of several ways:
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A short (5 min) video
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A slide show with images (powerpoint or google slides)
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A word document with images
You should include the following information in your “consumer guide”:
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The common or trade name of the product (eg Clorox)
A list of 2-3 main ingredients and their formulas and chemical structures (if
possible)
An explanation of the overall purpose of the product
An explanation of (the science of) the role of each of the 2-3 main ingredients
A description of the precautions and safety hazards of the product
A description of any environment issues associated with the product
(manufacturing the product, disposal of the product, etc)
An explanation of a safer or more environmentally friendly option to use in place
of this product
Your final recommendation: based on what you now know, do you think
consumers should continue using this product? Should its use be encouraged?
Limited? Banned? Support your recommendation with evidence from your
research.
Possible Topics (feel free to choose a household product outside of this list, it is just to
give you some ideas):
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oven cleaner
window and glass cleaner
drain cleaner
insecticides or insect repellants
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bleach
laundry/dishwashing detergent
cosmetics
pet flea and tick treatments
furniture stripper varsol
oil-based or latex paint
drain cleaner
windshield washer fluid
antifreeze
Mildew and mold removers
Rug and upholstery cleaners
Air fresheners
Mothballs
Ant or rodent poisins
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