Abstract

Morocco strategically uses soft power to reinforce its sovereignty claim over Western Sahara, focusing on engagement with the United Nations and the broader international community. Through Morocco’s economic soft power in its phosphate industry, overpowering hegemony, and continuous autonomy proposals to gain sovereignty and international favor, Morocco has sought to legitimize its position globally while countering opposing beliefs. Western Sahara has experienced this control of soft power, emphasized through liberalism in UN external assistance, restricted development, and its pursuit of self-determination within the bounds of the United Nations. Through institutional frameworks, Security Council dynamics, and postcolonial control, the analysis draws on case studies of UN negotiations, international diplomacy, and Morocco’s outreach efforts. This paper highlights Morocco's soft power usage to influence international perspectives on Western Sahara and garner political and economic support, mirroring other conflicts worldwide.

Abstract

This paper aims to compare the concentration of microplastics in recycled and non-recycled toilet paper when tested in a shredded state under controlled laboratory conditions. The goal is to determine whether recycled toilet paper contains fewer microplastics than non-recycled toilet paper. By investigating the microplastic content in recycled and non-recycled toilet paper, this investigation aims to shed light on an often-overlooked source of microplastic pollution. The results will not only enhance the understanding of the environmental impact of toilet paper products but also guide consumers and manufacturers towards more sustainable practices in reducing microplastics in everyday items.

Investigating the presence of different catalysts and their effect on the rate of decomposition of hydrogen peroxide at various temperatures, analyzed through the change in oxygen volume in controlled laboratory conditions.

By

Evan Trinh

Supervisors: Kevin Trinh

November 2024

Abstract

The decomposition of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) is a vital concept in various engineering and environmental procedures. Catalysts such as MnO2, PbO2, and Fe2O3 can significantly influence the rate of reactions; temperature also plays a vital role in the effectiveness of these catalysts. This paper will explore the question of “How does the presence of different catalysts [MnO2, PbO2, Fe2O3] affect the rate of decomposition of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) at various temperatures (30°C, 60°C, 90°C) under controlled laboratory conditions”. By investigating the impact of different catalysts (MnO2, PbO2, Fe2O3) on the decomposition rate of hydrogen peroxide at various temperatures (30°C, 60°C, 90°C), this paper aims to provide insights into optimizing this reaction for practical applications in fields of chemical and mechanical engineering. Optimizing industrial reactions to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and minimize environmental impact. Understanding how different catalysts and temperatures affect the decomposition of hydrogen peroxide will help in designing more efficient catalytic processes and further expand my interest in chemical and mechanical engineering. The research and experimentation of these reactions allow me to further gain an understanding of my future profession in the optimization of reactions in my field of study.