Science projects are more than just educational. At upper levels, projects may lead to the development of products that serve a valuable purpose for society or even foster new knowledge that aids in the advancement of a particular science discipline.
Computer Project
Due to the high frequency circuitry in a computer, these machines unintentionally radiate RF (radio frequency) energy. Computer manufacturers address this problem by including some RF shielding inside computer cases, but there is still some RF leakage. Determine the magnitude of RF energy that surrounds a computer, checking all sides, top and bottom, for RF radiation. Do this by placing a computer in the middle of a room on a small table and turn it on. Use a handheld AM radio tuned to a spot on the dial where no stations can be received. Walk around the computer and hold the radio above and underneath it. Note the volume (magnitude) of hum or buzz in the radio, indicating RF radiation. Draw a three-dimensional map showing the relative magnitude of RF radiation at various locations and distances around the computer.
Botany Project
Green plants use carbon dioxide (CO2) in a process that produces simple food. Enclose a dozen different types of potted plants in clear plastic bags and seal them to prevent CO2 and oxygen from entering or leaving the plants' immediate environment. Place the plants in a sunny window. Devise a way that water can be given to the plants without unsealing the bags. Discover which plants survive the longest with CO2 deprivation.
Earth Science
Winds can transport airborne sand particles over great distances. This process can cause erosion in one area and a buildup of sand in another area. Along seaboard coastlines, a buildup of sand dunes is desirable to act as protection against storms. "Wind breaker fences" are fences made with 1- to 2-inch-wide slats with a space between them. A similar fence, a "snow fence," is used in areas where snow needs to be collected to prevent highway buildup. These fences reduce the velocity of the wind so that sand (or snow) particles traveling in the wind will fall out of the wind and be deposited by the fence. Through experimentation, determine the optimum width of slats for a windbreaker fence and the optimum spacing between each slat.
Environmental Science
Determine if clothing made from synthetic materials (such as polyester and rayon) hold up better than clothing made from natural fibers (such as cotton and wool). Accelerate or simulate "wear and usage" by cutting materials into strips, and place some outside, where they will be exposed to weather elements, and bury others in the ground. After several months, evaluate the test strips and compare them to a set of strips that have remained indoors at room temperatures and out of sunlight.
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