Overview
- Major Topics Explored:
- In-depth study of optics, light, and wave physics.
- Complex chemical reactions and thermodynamics.
- Electricity and magnetism, with practical applications.
- Chaotic systems and forces in motion.
- Form Factor of Lab Session:
- Advanced experiments requiring critical thinking and analysis.
- Structured group activities with students leading segments of the session.
- Use of more precise and technical equipment, fostering deeper inquiry.
Session 1: Advanced Waves and Light
- Ripple Tank: Explore advanced wave phenomena, including interference patterns and standing waves, linking these principles to real-world examples like noise-canceling technology.
- Infinite Mirror: Delve into the principles of optics and reflection, analyzing how light behaves in complex systems like periscopes or cameras.
Session 2: Complex Systems and Energy
- Domino Chain Reactions: Study the math and physics behind complex systems, exploring how small changes can lead to large outcomes (chaos theory, butterfly effect).
- Self-Organizing Structures: Study spontaneous order, molecular self-assembly, and chaos theory in more depth.
Session 3: Advanced Chemical Reactions
- Fire in Water (Sodium Reaction): Study the thermodynamics of exothermic reactions, including gas production, oxidation states, and chemical stability.
- Elephant Toothpaste: Dive into enzyme catalysis, reaction rates, and chemical equilibrium, linking these reactions to biological processes.
Session 4: Physics of Motion and Forces
- Newton’s Cradle: Explore energy conservation and complex motion, analyzing real-world applications like automobile safety and sports.
- Doubly Suspended Pendulum: Study chaotic systems and how small differences in starting conditions can lead to vastly different outcomes, linking to chaos theory.
Session 5: Sound and Resonance
- Rijke Tubes: Discuss acoustic resonance in pipes and its applications in heat engines and musical instruments.
- Lichtenberg Patterns: Further study of electricity, conductivity, and insulation, focusing on high-voltage physics and electrical breakdown.
Session 6: Optics and Illusions
- Disappear in Lenses: Study how lenses manipulate light and focus, with connections to medical imaging, astronomy, and microscopy.
- Spirograph: Explore the geometry of reflected light, connecting this to real-world applications like laser cutting and light shows.
Session 7: Fluid Dynamics and Black Holes
- Levitating Balls: Study how fluid dynamics applies to flight, lift, and air pressure.
- Black Holes: Discuss advanced gravitational fields and black holes, connecting these to Einstein’s theory of general relativity.
Session 8: Electricity and Advanced Materials
- Liquid Nitrogen: Show how superconductors work at low temperatures and the principles of supercooling.
- Electromagnetism: Explore advanced concepts in electromagnetism, including inductive charging and the role of electromagnetism in modern technology.
Session 9: Pattern Recognition and Geometry
- Hex Games: Focus on advanced geometry, spatial reasoning, and logical deduction, with an emphasis on real-world problem-solving.
- Drawing with a Single Line: Explore more complex geometrical shapes and fractals, focusing on how continuous motion creates intricate designs.
Session 10: Student Demonstration Day
- DIY Demonstrations: Students select and present their favorite demonstrations, solidifying their understanding and enhancing public presentation skills.