ISS S209 Group B: Introduction

INTRODUCTION

We are adopting a hypothesis-driven research based on the big topic, Chemistry. The title of our experiment would be: The Factors that Affect the Intensity of the Soap.

Our Hypothesis : Does the molecular weight and vapour pressure affects the intensity of the soap fragrance? We want to know this as we can use our results and find out how which ingredients can create the most effective and strong fragrance. We also want to find out the cause of why some perfumes and soap smell stronger/ weaker than others in relation with molecular weight and vapour pressure.

As our hypothesis, we will expect that the molecular weight will affect the intensity of the soap as the heavier the molecule of the ingredients of the soap, the lower the intensity of the soap. Heavy molecule, it will take a longer time for it to diffuse out. Whereas, we will also expect the vapour pressure to affect the intensity of the soap. With a higher vapour pressure, the higher the the rate of diffusion, hence the fragrance of the soap will diffuse quickly, making the fragrance strong.

The constant variables:

(a) The amount of soap base used to make the fragrant soap

(b) The amount of soap applied on our arms for panelist to smell

Before we start the experiment, we did some basic research of what we were going to be using.

Weight of Molecules: Molecular Weight is the molar mass of a Covalent compound. The common unit to measure it is u or Da.

Vapour Pressure: Pressure exerted by vapour during thermodynamic equilibrium, which means when it is not volatile, or undergoing any phase changes at a given temperature. Measured in pascal (Pa), which converts one pascal to one newton per square meter.

We plan to collaborate with International Flavors and Fragrances (IFF) to help us guide and supply the required apparatus as they also require such information.