Archived Content
Information identified as archived on the Web is for reference, research or recordkeeping purposes. It has not been altered or updated after the date of archiving. Web pages that are archived on the Web are not subject to the Government of Canada Web Standards. As per the Communications Policy of the Government of Canada, you can request alternate formats on the Contact Us page.
Activity Number 19 - An Experiment
Purpose
To Demonstrate The Effect Of UV On Newspaper.
Materials
- newspaper
- book
- clear glass bowl
- piece of plastic such as a pair of work glasses
Method
- On a sunny day in May or June, spread a newspaper out on a flat surface in the schoolyard early in the day. Place a book on the left side of the paper and invert the bowl on the right side. Place the plastic in the middle of the paper.
- Leave it exposed, untouched for at least 4 hours.
- After 2 p.m., remove the objects from the newspaper and note any differences in colour.
Observations
The exposed portion of the newspaper has yellowed. The part of the paper that was under the book is still white; the part under the plastic has coloured slightly; and the part under the glass bowl has yellowed even more but not as much as the totally exposed portion.
Conclusion
UV rays affect the colour of newspaper. Plastic blocks more UV rays than glass, but the book offered the most protection.
- Date modified: