How to do electrical conductivity tests?

In summary, the conversation discusses a lab assignment where the students have to test the electrical conductivity of various substances. However, the materials provided only include an "electrical conductivity tester" and the textbook mentions a "conductivity apparatus". The students are unsure of how to use the tester and whether they should put the substances in water before testing. One student suggests that the tester might be a DVM.
  • #1
Cheesycheese213
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<< Thread moved from a technical forum, so no HH Template is shown >>

Our teacher gave us a lab, and we have to write a procedure on how to test the electrical conductivity of multiple substances. However, on the materials, all that was written was "electrical conductivity tester", which I'm not sure what it is since we have not learned about it at all, and in the textbook it says "conductivity apparatus".
The things we were given include salt, candle wax, toothpaste and sand.
Should we be putting them into water and then sticking it in, or just by itself?
Thanks!

p.s. In one of the questions, it asked about standing in a puddle with salt or sugar, so I am guessing it is in water, but how would that work for something like wax or sand?
 
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  • #2
Cheesycheese213 said:
"electrical conductivity tester"
That's probably just a DVM. have you used a DVM in your labs before?
 

Related to How to do electrical conductivity tests?

1. What is the purpose of an electrical conductivity test?

An electrical conductivity test is used to measure the ability of a material to conduct an electrical current. This can provide information about the material's composition, purity, and overall quality.

2. How is an electrical conductivity test performed?

An electrical conductivity test is typically performed by applying an electrical current to the material and measuring the resulting voltage. The results are then compared to known standards or benchmarks to determine the material's conductivity.

3. What types of materials can be tested for electrical conductivity?

Almost any type of material can be tested for electrical conductivity, including metals, liquids, and even gases. However, the method of testing may vary depending on the type of material being tested.

4. What are some common factors that can affect the results of an electrical conductivity test?

The results of an electrical conductivity test can be affected by a variety of factors, such as the temperature, pressure, and moisture content of the material being tested. The presence of impurities or defects in the material can also impact the results.

5. What are the potential applications of electrical conductivity testing?

Electrical conductivity testing has a wide range of potential applications, including quality control in manufacturing, material identification, and analysis of geological and environmental samples. It can also be used in the development of new materials and in research and development projects.

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