Annex A - Group Research Proposal (Science)

Research Proposal (Draft 1)
SCHOOL OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY, SINGAPORE
INVESTIGATIVE SKILLS IN SCIENCE


Names: Ivey Erika (3)
             Nurul Hannah (5)
             Puteri Nur Huda (6)
Class: S2-01    
Group Reference: Group D
1. Indicate the type of research that you are adopting:


Measure a function or relationship: Experimental research (II)
2. Write a research proposal of your interested topic in the following format:
Title: Investigation of the stationary waveforms in non-newtonian fluids due to different sound frequencies.
A. Question or Problem being addressed
Non-Newtonian fluids have been shown to react differently from normal fluids. A mixture of cornstarch and water can form shapes when sound waves are sent to travel through the substance. Can a Cornstarch and Water mixture (non-newtonian fluid) be directly manipulated  to move the way we want it to using soundwaves?
B. Goals / Expected Outcomes / Hypotheses
Hypothesis :
We are able to control the movement and form of the Non-Newtonian fluid by using different sound frequencies. However the shapes formed are limited.
Dependent Variable:
The non-newtonian fluid.
Independent Variable:
The different sound frequencies.


Constant:
Concentration & amount of the Non-newtonian fluid

C. Description in detail of method or procedures (The following are important and key items that should be included when formulating ANY AND ALL research plans.)
- Risk and Safety: Identify any potential risks and safety precautions to be taken.    
- Data Analysis: Describe the procedures you will use to analyze the data/results that answer research questions or hypotheses.
Equipment List:
1) Function Generator
2) Speaker
3) Plastic Layer
4) Water
5) Corn Starch
6) Container
7) Spoon
8) Casio ZR-100 High speed camera
Procedure
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.
Risk Analysis
The non-newtonian fluid must be handled while wearing gloves. (To ensure purity of the fluid)
Ensure that the plastic layering between the fluid and speaker cone is held tightly over the speaker and does not have any holes. (To prevent leakage)
Ensure that the fluid does not leak out of the cone and onto any electronic devices such as the MacBooks and Speaker. (To prevent damage to electronic devices)
Data Analysis
We are to record the movements of the fluid and use the pictures taken for comparison. With each different sound frequency tested, a picture should be taken and be used for comparison with other pictures of the fluid using different sound frequencies. These pictures will be used as data collection.
D. Bibliography: List at least five (5) major references (e.g. science journal articles, books, internet sites) from your literature review. If you plan to use vertebrate animals, one of these references must be an animal care reference. Choose the APA format and use it consistently to reference the literature used in the research plan. List your entries in alphabetical order.


1) Non-Newtonian Fluid (2013, July 16)http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Non-Newtonian_fluid
2) Oracle Thinkquest (2013, July 16)


3) Flite Media (2013, July 16)
4) Signal Generators and Function Generators

5) GE (2009) http://www.ge.com/press/scienceworkshop/docs/pdf/Non_Newtonian_Fluid_with_Standards.pdf




Research Proposal (Draft 2) 

School of Science and Technology, Singapore
Investigative Skills in Science (ISS)
Research Proposal


Names:  1) Ivey Erika Armani (3)

              2) Nurul Hannah (5)
              3) Puteri Nur Huda (6)

Class: S2-01    

Group Reference: Group D

1. Indicate the type of research that you are adopting:
[    ] Test a hypothesis: Hypothesis-driven research
e.g. Investigation of the anti-bacteria effect of chrysanthemum


[    ] Measure a value: Experimental research (I)
e.g. Determination of the mass of Jupiter using planetary photography


[ X ] Measure a function or relationship: Experimental research (II)
e.g. Investigation of the effect of temperature on the growth of crystals


[    ] Construct a model: Theoretical sciences and applied mathematics
e.g. Modeling of the cooling curve of naphthalene  
[    ] Observational and exploratory research
e.g. Investigation of the soil quality in School of Science and Technology, Singapore


[    ] Improve a product or process: Industrial and applied research
e.g. Development of a SMART and GREEN energy system for households


Title: Investigation of the stationary waveforms in non-newtonian fluids due to different sound frequencies.

A. Question or Problem being addressed

Can we directly manipulate Non-Newtonian Fluid using sound waves?

Non-Newtonian fluids have been shown to react differently from normal fluids. It has both fluid-like and solid-like properties. A mixture of starch and water can form shapes and patterns when sound waves travel through the substance. Its unique properties show that it is a versatile substance yet it currently does not have a significant purpose to it.

We want to further understand the properties of this fluid, while at the same time, finding out if we can manipulate it to move and form patterns the way we want it to by using sound waves. We are going to do this by generating sound waves through the Non-newtonian fluid by placing the fluid in a speaker cone then playing music with the speaker and observing the motions and forms that it creates. We will be making our own sound track to be played through the speakers so that we can monitor what kind of sound frequency is being used. Therefore, our MacBook will be acting as a signal generator in this experiment.

By being able to manipulate this substance through sound waves, we further understand the properties of it and we can thus apply it to different situations. At the moment, the Non-Newtonian fluid’s ability to form shapes and patterns is used for merely recreational purposes. From our observations and research, Non-newtonian fluids are only being used in small-scale experiments carried out by ordinary people and its possible uses have not been explored enough. We believe that we can further expand the usage of this versatile substance, with its unique properties, using it maybe to build structures or using it for defense. We may even be able to use it to manipulate ocean waves.

B. Goals / Expected Outcomes / Hypothesis

Hypothesis: 
Our hypothesis is that at higher frequencies, the Non-Newtonian Fluid will display a more complicated pattern.


Variables

Independant
Dependant
Constant
  • The different sound frequencies.
  • Type of starch used (eg. tapioca, corn, potato)
  • The shape of the non-newtonian fluid.
  • Concentration of the Non-newtonian fluid
  • Amount of Non-Newtonian Fluid
  • The speaker used



C. Description in detail of method or procedures (The following are important and key items that should be included when formulating ANY AND ALL research plans.)

Equipment List
No.
Quantity
Item Description
1.
1
MacBook Pro (A substitute for a Signal Generator)
2.
1
Speaker cone (10-inch diameter)
3.
1
Speaker cone (6-inch diameter)
4.
2
Measuring Jar (Plastic, 1 litre)
5.
2
Beaker (Plastic, 250ml)
6.
3
Packets of Potato Starch
7.
3
Packets of Tapioca Starch
8.
3
Packets of Corn Starch
9.
3 litres
Water
10.
1
Small bottle of Red Food Colouring
11.
1
Small bottle of Blue Food Colouring
12.
1
Small bottle of Green/Orange Food Colouring
13.
1
Camera
14.
1
PVC Board ( 60cm by 60cm)
15.
1
Mixing Bowl
16.
1
Mixing Spoon


Diagram

• Procedures: Detail all procedures and experimental design to be used for data collection

1) Secure the speaker cone to the PVC board. Ensure that the speaker cone will not detach from the board during the experiment.

2) Secure the plastic layering tightly over the speaker cone, ensuring that there are no holes or gaps in between.

3) Connect the speaker to the amplifier, and then connect the amplifier to the signal generator which is the MacBook.

4) Put 1.5-2 parts potato starch 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.

5) Repeat 4) with both the corn and tapioca starch, using different colours of food colouring each.

6) Check if it is the right texture by applying pressure to the surface of the mixture by applying pressure to the surface of the substance. If it solidifies on hard impact and liquefies on soft impact, it is the right texture.

7) Pour the Non-Newtonian Fluid into the speaker cone until it takes up a third of the cone’s capacity.

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

9) Start recording using the camera.

10) Send sound waves through the non-newtonian fluid by playing the sound track through the speaker using the signal generator software on the MacBook.

11) Change the sound frequencies by adjusting it on the signal generator software on the MacBook.

12) Ensure that the camera is capturing the movements of the Non-Newtonian Fluid as different sound frequencies are being tested.

13) Take down screenshots of the waveforms on the MacBook’s signal generator software which will later be used for discussion.

• Risk and Safety: Identify any potential risks and safety precautions to be taken.

In our experiment, we are making use of electricity and fluid. This combination is very hazardous and may cause electrocution if we are not careful. Electrical devices must not be in direct contact with the fluids. The electric devices should also be plugged in properly and the wires cannot be exposed. Plastic layers can be placed between the fluids and the speaker to prevent leakage and thus preventing electrocution. As Non-newtonian liquid is merely cornstarch and water, which are regular household items, they are safe and therefore, gloves are not required.

1) Having holes or gaps between the plastic layer and speaker, causing the non-newtonian fluid to leak through to the speaker. It may cause the speaker to short-circuit, which can be dangerous as we may get electrocuted while handling it. Ensure that the plastic layering between the fluid and speaker cone is secured tightly over the speaker and does not have any holes or gaps.

2) There is also the risk that the fluid will leak out of the cone, causing electrocution. Ensure that the fluid does not leak out of the cone and onto any electronic devices such as the MacBooks and into the Speaker.

3) Wires that are not properly plugged in may end up as a hazard. We must ensure that all wires are properly plugged in and are not left unattended. Power source should be shut off when devices are not being monitored.

4) Since cornstarch can only dissolve in warm water, the water will be at a warm temperature. We may scald ourselves or even get electrocuted when mixing the two substances together. We must handle this water  carefully without spilling.

5) Electrocution may happen when water comes in contact with electronic devices. To ensure our safety so that no one gets hurt, make sure all electronic devices like MacBook and wires are not anywhere near water.

• Data Analysis: Describe the procedures you will use to analyze the data/results that answer research questions or hypotheses

We are to record the movements of the fluid and use the pictures and videos taken for comparison. With each different sound frequency tested, a picture should be taken and be used for comparison with other pictures of the fluid using different sound frequencies. We also take “Screenshots” on the Oscilloscope using the “hardcopy” button, and transferring the data to a USB drive. These pictures will be used for our discussion.

D. Bibliography: List at least five (5) major references (e.g. science journal articles, books, internet sites) from your literature review. If you plan to use vertebrate animals, one of these references must be an animal care reference. Choose the APA format and use it consistently to reference the literature used in the research plan. List your entries in alphabetical order.

Flite Media (n.d.). The physics of Non-newtonian fluids.

General Electric Company. (2009). Non-newtonian fluid.

Helmenstine, A. M. P. D. (n.d). How to make oobleck.

Hollis, B. (n.d). Physics of sound.

Intelligent Sound. (n.d). Features and uses of power amplifiers .

Oracle Thinkquest (n.d.). The Physics of Sound

The Physics Hypertextbook. (n.d). Standing waves.
Retrieved July 4, 2013 from http://physics.info/waves-standing/

Wikipedia. (nd). Audio power amplifier.

Wikipedia (n.d). Non-Newtonian Fluid
Retrieved July 16, 2013 from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Non-Newtonian_fluid

Wikipedia. (nd). Signal generator.

ZTEC Instruments (n.d.). Signal Generators and Function Generators

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