Porosity and Permeability Lab Activity

How much water is in any place is determined by the porosity and permeability of subterranean material. Students will examine three different materials to determine the porosity and permeability of each.   Coupled with this activity is the creation of both confined and unconfined aquifers. Substrates are added to a cup and students will create a barrier out of clay to serve as the material shielding a confined aquifer. This will simulate deep underground water that is less impacted by modern pollution.   This lab activity can be linked to real world concerns. Chemical intrusion into the local water supply is common in many places. Students can take what they learn and apply the information to groundwater issues locally. The Gelman Plume is such a concern located near Arbor Scientific.