%0 Journal Article
%A Peña Martínez, Juan
%A Beltrán-Martínez, Jessica
%A Cano Ortiz, Ana
%A Rosales Conrado, Noelia
%T Teaching the nature of science through biodiesel synthesis  from waste cooking oil: a literature review with experimental insights
%D 2025
%@ 2673-4079
%U https://hdl.handle.net/20.500.14352/120753
%X This work reviews the use of biodiesel synthesis experiments in science education, emphasising their potential for explicit nature of science (NOS) teaching. Through a literature review and experimental insights, it highlights how transesterification of waste cooking oil (WCO) with a basic catalyst can serve as an educational tool. While biodiesel reaction conditions are well-documented, this study presents them in a pedagogical context. Simple viscosity and density measurements illustrate empirical analysis, while a design of experiments (DoE) approach using a Hadamard matrix introduces systematic optimisation and scientific reasoning. By integrating biodiesel synthesis with explicit NOS instruction, this work provides educators with a framework to foster critical thinking and a deeper understanding of scientific inquiry. Additionally, this approach aligns with green chemistry principles and resource efficiency, reinforcing the broader relevance of sustainable chemistry.
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