Students investigate how semiconductors can be used as photocatalysts to degrade harmful organic pollutants in water. Using the degradation reaction of methyl orange by irradiated TiO2 nanocrystals, students will use UV-Vis spectroscopy to verify the reaction. Through this investigation, students connect chemical analysis techniques with real-world environmental applications such as water purification.
This resource can be used alongside the Crystals, Unit Cells and X-ray Diffraction lesson.
Grade Levels: 9-12
Educational Standards
NGSS:
HS-PS1-3; HS-PS1-4; HS-PS1-5; HS-PS2-6
Topics: Chemistry, Environmental Chemistry, Semiconductors
Contributor: Kirstin Blase, Villa Duchesne Upper School
Acknowledgements: The contents of this curriculum were co-developed with Principal Investigator Professor Bryce Sadtler in Chemistry at WashU and funded by a grant from the National Science Foundation (Imaging Nanoscale Heterogeneity in Single-Atom Catalysts with Single-Molecule Fluorescence Microscopy; Chemical Measurement & Imaging, Macromolec/Supramolec/Nano MPS CHE-2404415). These contents do not necessarily represent the policies of the National Science Foundation, and you should not assume endorsement by the federal government.