Processing Solid, Liquid, and Gaseous Waste
Lab Investigation
In this investigation you will examine, based on experimentation, the most efficient and
environmentally friendly methods of disposing of a few specific items of waste - an apple core,
a plastic bottle, a plastic bag, and an aluminium can. As you conduct the investigation, collect
data to indicate how the volume of the waste product is reduced, and any secondary waste
products produced by the methods selected. After you have investigated each of the possible
disposal methods for the waste items, research the health/environmental effects of some of
the secondary waste products produced. Use that information to help make your conclusions
about the best disposal method for each waste item.
Data
1st waste item
_________
Original
volume
(cm3)
Final volume
after processing
(cm3)
Secondary waste
produced from
process
Speed of
processing
Original
volume
(cm3)
Final volume
after processing
(cm3)
Secondary waste
produced from
process
Speed of
processing
Original
volume
(cm3)
Final volume
after processing
(cm3)
Secondary waste
produced from
process
Speed of
processing
incineration
decomposition
compaction
recycling
2nd waste item
_________
incineration
decomposition
compaction
recycling
3rd waste item
_________
incineration
decomposition
compaction
recycling
4th waste item Original
_________
volume
(cm3)
Final volume
after processing
(cm3)
Secondary waste
produced from
process
Speed of
processing
incineration
decomposition
compaction
recycling
Observations
Describe what happened as you attempted the various methods of disposal for each waste
product.
Health and environmental effects of secondary waste products
Describe, based on research, possible health or environmental impacts of the secondary waste
produced from any of the methods.
Conclusion
What was the most efficient and most environment friendly method of disposal for each of the
waste items?