Sample Lesson Plan for UTA RET
Blake Wade
Kennedale High School
Dispersion Models
Objective
To teach high school chemistry students how dispersion models, more especially kineticmolecular theory, are not only a vital part of chemistry but that they also use these
concepts in other fields of science especially engineering.
Outcomes and Potential Results
There are three outcomes and potential results from this lab that are of importance.
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
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Understanding of qualitative and quantitative results based on laboratory
procedures and numerical values obtained.
Evaluation of a laboratory process; How can the lab be better performed?
Comparing how Kinetic-Molecular theory and Dispersion Modeling can
and are related.
Key Concepts and Important Facts
What is Kinetic-Molecular Theory?
This theory is based on the idea that particles of matter are always in motion.
How many states of matter are there?
There are four states of matter, of which we only use three in the laboratory. There are
solids, liquids and gas states available for use in the laboratory. The fourth state of matter
is generally found only in nature and generally not on earth but in the universe within the
masses of stars that are undergoing nuclear reactions.
http://www.nasa.gov/images/content/147515main_phases_large.jpg
Sample Lesson Plan for UTA RET
Blake Wade
Kennedale High School
Dispersion Models
What is a Dispersion Model?
Dispersion modeling uses mathematical formulations to characterize the atmospheric
processes that disperse a pollutant emitted by a source (www.epa.gov). A pollutant can be
anything, but the RET study is primairly focused on hazards to the common public
whereby not knowing this dispersion can cause serious health damage to the surrounding
public.
How do we relate the Kinetic-Molecular Theory with a Dispersion Model?
We can relate the Kinetic Molecular Theory with a dispersion model through a chemistry
lab and discussion with the use of various solids, liquids and gases. The easiest way to
understand how dispersion models interact with the theory is through experimentation.
Today’s lesson plan will use show how the two are related. When adding external
variables such as wind currents or varying amounts of humidity we can possibly change
the way the solids, liquids and gases interact with one another. This experiment can not
only be qualitatively assessed but can also be quantitatively assessed as we are using real
numbers to show how differing variables change the outcome of the experiment. Through
the use of dispersion models we can potentially map an area and based on the
mathematical and hazard inputs determine which area in the metroplex is at the most risk
of disaster.
Tests and Experimental Data Collection
Through the production of chlorine gas we can show how molecules in liquid states
interact with one another based on a replacement interaction between Chlorine and other
halogens, such as fluorine, bromine and iodine. We can also show a pH change when the
chlorine gas is created.
This idea is very similar to a Dispersion Model when someone with a great smelling
cologne or perfume walks into a room, and you don’t smell them right away based on
your proximity to them. However, as time goes by you can smell them because the
molecules have had ample time to reach you. The amount of time it takes for the
interaction with your nose to occur can be quantified based on the amount of gas present
initially.
In regards to what we are using the data for with RET, this type of lab experience for the
kids can easily be adapted to them not only understanding how gases interact with the
environment around them but how these gases can be dispersed using the real-world
scenario of What If? What if we let off a gas on top of a building in Arlington with the
wind blowing south at 15 mph, 75% humidity, UV in the range of 6 and the density of the
molecule released below 1 g/cm3? All of this information can be quantified and now
understood by students because of the experiment that they performed.
Sample Lesson Plan for UTA RET
Blake Wade
Kennedale High School
Dispersion Models
How does this experiment relate to TEKS?
§112.45. Chemistry
(2)(A) plan and implement investigative procedures including asking questions,
formulating testable hypotheses, and selecting equipment and technology
(2)(B) collect data and make measurements with precision
(2)(D) organize, analyze, evaluate, make inferences, and predict trends from data
(3)(C) evaluate the impact of research on scientific thought, society, and the environment
(4)(B) analyze examples of solids, liquids, and gases to determine their compressibility,
structure, motion of particles, shape, and volume
(7)(A) describe interrelationships among temperature, particle number, pressure, and
volume of gases contained within a closed system
(15)(B) relate the rate of a chemical reaction to temperature, concentration, surface area,
and presence of a catalyst
In Conclusion….
Kinetic-Molecular Theory and Dispersion Models can be integrated to form one
continuous model by relating how molecules interact when put into natural environments.
These natural environments must be studied and quantified to the most extent possible
due to the implications at hand should a hazard or terrorist event take place anywhere in
the Metroplex. These ideas can be applied anywhere in the world as long as we can know
both the environmental factors and topography of an area. We could potentially allow law
enforcement to prevent a possible hazardous situation or know where to move people to
should something disastrous occur.