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How to Do a Jar Test

The jar test is an experiment that emulates the effectiveness of water treatment. It simulates, on a significantly smaller scale, what occurs during the water treatment process. You can use the results of a jar test to analyze what chemicals and dosages you need to remove particles from water and effectively treat it. You can perform a jar test at home without expensive equipment or a lab.

Things You'll Need

  • 2 graduated cylinders, 1.5 liters or greater
  • 10 grams alum
  • 1 liter distilled water
  • 4 liter raw water
  • 4 jars
  • Test tube
  • Stirring stick
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Instructions

    • 1

      Prepare a stock solution. Pour 1 liter of distilled water into a graduated cylinder with 10 grams of alum. The stock solution is the chemical you are testing for its effectiveness in removing particles during the jar test.

    • 2

      Pour 1 liter of raw water into each jar.

    • 3

      Label the jars 1, 2, 3 and 4.

    • 4

      Create a chart using a piece of paper. Write down each jar number. Next to each jar number, write the corresponding amount of alum you will be putting in the jar. For this example, put 1 mL in the first jar, 2 mL in the second, 3 mL in the third and 4 mL in the fourth.

    • 5

      Pour stock solution into the test tube according to the amount you wrote on your chart for the first jar. Pour the solution into the first jar.

    • 6

      Stir the solution for 15 minutes at a steady pace.

    • 7

      Repeat Steps 5 and 6 for each of the other three jars.

    • 8

      Examine the jars and record your results. Check for noticeable differences in the clarity of the water.

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