2. Methods

2.1 Scientific Methods

What is the Scientific Method?


The scientific method is a body of techniques for investigating phenomena, acquiring new knowledge, or correcting and integrating previous knowledge.[1] To be termed scientific, a method of inquiry must be based on empirical and measurable evidence subject to specific principles of reasoning.[2] The Oxford English Dictionary defines the scientific method as: "a method or procedure that has characterized natural science since the 17th century, consisting in systematic observation, measurement, and experiment, and the formulation, testing, and modification of hypotheses."[3]
 

The scientific method is a way to ask and answer scientific questions by making observations and doing experiments.
The steps of the scientific method are to:
 
1) Ask a Question
2) Do Background Research
3) Construct a Hypothesis
4) Test Your Hypothesis by Doing an Experiment
5) Analyze Your Data and Draw a Conclusion
6) Communicate Your Results

It is important for your experiment to be a fair test. A "fair test" occurs when you change only one factor (variable) and keep all other conditions the same.
While scientists study how nature works, engineers create new things, such as products, websites, environments, and experiences.
 
 
2.2 "Can we control the way a substance reacts to the sound wave travelling through it?"

Hypothesis: We are able to control the movement and form of the Non-Newtonian fluid by using different sound frequencies.
Dependent variable: The Non-Newtonian fluid
Independent variable: The different sound frequencies
Constant variable: Concentration & amount of Non-Newtonian fluid

2.3 Methods of experiment
 

1) Put 1.5-2 parts cornstarch and 1 part water and drops of food colouring (for visibility of fluid) into a container and mix well using a spoon until the mixture is tough to stir.


2) Check if it is the right texture by applying pressure to the surface of the mixture by poking it with your finger. If it solidifies on hard impact and liquefies on soft impact, it is the right texture.


3) Position the speaker box on its back such that the speaker cone is facing upwards.


4) Secure the plastic layering over the speaker cone.


5) Pour the Non-Newtonian liquid into the speaker cone taking up a third of the cone’s capacity.


6) Connect the speaker to the MacBook or Signal Generator.


7) Position the High Speed Camera to record the movement of the non-newtonian fluid in the   speaker cone. Start recording.


8) Send sound waves through the non-newtonian fluid by playing music using the Function Generator or Oscillator.


9) Change the sound frequencies by adjusting the Function Generator/Oscillator. Make sure to record the different shapes formed by the fluid caused by the different sound frequencies.


10) Repeat steps 8 and 9 trying out different sound frequencies and recording them with the High Speed Camera.

No comments:

Post a Comment