Objectives
To observe the settling behavior of a solid object in a fluid and simulate the process of
sediment deposition.
To understand how particle weight, size, and shape influence the rate of sedimentation in
water.
🧰 Apparatus/Materials Used
Transparent basin or container
Clean water
Stopwatch
Coins (preferably different sizes and weights)
Ruler (optional, for measuring water depth)
Notebook and pen (for recording observations)
Towel or cloth (for drying hands and cleaning spills)
⚠️ Safety Precautions
Handle coins with clean hands to avoid contamination of the water.
Avoid splashing water to prevent slips and accidents.
Keep the experiment area dry to avoid electrical hazards if using electronic devices nearby.
Do not ingest or place materials used in the experiment near your face or mouth.
Wash hands thoroughly after completing the experiment.
🧰 Observation and Interpretation
Upon dropping the coin into the basin of water, ripples were initially formed on the surface due to the
disturbance. The coin then began its descent, gradually slowing down due to resistance from the
water. Depending on the size and weight of the coin, the time it took to reach the bottom varied
slightly. The coin settled directly at the bottom with minimal lateral movement, simulating a particle’s
journey in a body of water.
This process represents how sediments behave in natural environments. Heavier and denser particles
settle faster than lighter ones, forming sediment layers over time. This is evident in riverbeds, deltas,
and ocean floors, where the force of gravity, combined with water resistance, dictates how sediments
