FAQ

1. Q: What is the purpose of our project?
    A: The purpose of our project is to improve previous models of solar distillation units. We plan to do this by decreasing the air pressure inside of the box. This will lower the boiling point of the water, therefore, increasing the rate of evaporation.

2. Q: Why is this project important?
    A:  According to a joint study by UNICEF and the United Nations, 11% of the world's population does not have access to clean water.

3. Q: Who will use the product?
    A: This project is directed towards communities in sub-Saharan Africa. IRIN Reports that these countries would have to spend 3.5% of their GDP to meet their clean water needs.

4. Q: What will the end product be?
    A: Our group will produce a solar still prototype. An ideal design will also be described because we do not have access to the best materials. If our product was going to be mass produced, the ideal design would be used.

5. Q: How does distillation of water work?
    A: Distillation is used to purify water. It works by using heat to vaporize water and separate it from contaminants that were in the original water source. Water is heated, usually by the sun's rays, which causes it to vaporize and collect in a separate area via condensation. The unwanted debris remains in the input area of the still.