All science projects need to demonstrate an experiment, and considering the concerns revolving around the effect motor oil has on the environment, many eighth grade science fair projects also include a simulated oil spill. This doesn't always mean an oil tanker on the ocean. A spill can also happen due to road or train trouble, or even in an urban area if a pipeline or containment area fails. Students can experiment by exposing plants or water to different kinds of motor oil, measure the level of pollution and determine how the contaminated materials can be restored (if at all).
Studying the effects of oil on the environment is not just learning about industrial accidents and oil cleanup, although those are major factors. It is also about studying alternatives to conventional motor oil or finding safer and cleaner ways to produce and dispose of motor oil. Students can conduct experiments that consist of exposing healthy plants or clean water to both new and used motor oil and recording the effects. Other experiments can include more environmentally friendly methods of oil extraction and ways to reduce motor oil pollution on urban streets and waterways.
Eighth grade science projects can also look at certain problems from a commercial standpoint. There are several different kinds of motor oils available on the average body shop shelf, but what is the difference in composition and quality? Experiments for such questions can be as simple as testing and recording the viscosity and heat resistance level of two or three different kinds of motor oils. Students can supplement their experiments by researching consumer reports and industry standards.
Motor oil performs a specific and important function. It literally keeps the engines that drive our everyday lives running. However, it has a high toxicity level and can be difficult and dirty to dig from the ground. Students that study chemistry and have a basic understanding of our society's basic need for motor oil can build on these questions for a science fair project. A hypothesis for such a project could compare different kinds of motor oils, their viscosity, what they are used for and why, and their chemical compositions.