Document Type

Article

Publication Date

2024

Publication Title

Journal of Virginia Science Education

Volume

16

Issue

1

Pages

45-51

Abstract

Extracting and creating biofuels from algae is an exciting area of development for renewable energy. There is a lack of protocols for high school students that feature lipid extraction from algae, largely due to the safety considerations and equipment used in industry. Biology standards include the chemistry and function of macromolecules, and biofuels are an engaging, authentic case study for high school students. This paper describes the development of an imperfect lipid extraction method that is safe for the high school classroom. Through the lab and related activities, students develop their understanding of the characteristics of macromolecules, practice developing their own experimental design, and make connections to how this information is tied to the creation of biofuels. This protocol is not perfect and may ultimately result in students making emulsions of nonpolar solvents and thinking they are lipids. However, we have identified and implemented a first step towards bringing biofuel extractions to the high school class. Given the solvents used and safety precautions required to implement this activity, we recommend that this be used in honors/advanced Biology or AP Biology classroom.

Rights

© 2024 The Virginia Association of Science Teachers (VAST), incorporated in Virginia as a charitable, scientific, and educational organization.

All rights reserved.

Included with the kind written permission of the copyright holders and the author.

ORCID

0000-0001-8560-779X (Smith-Mutegi)

Original Publication Citation

Adrian-Tucci, C., Adrian, A., Beam, S., & Smith-Mutegi, D. (2024). Macromolecular gold: Navigating biofuel extractions in a high school class. Journal of Virginia Science Education. 16(1), 45-51.

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