Northern virginia Regional science and engineering … VIRGINIA REGIONAL SCIENCE AND ENGINEERING...

NORTHERN VIRGINIA REGIONAL SCIENCE AND ENGINEERING FAIR

MARCH 4-5, 2017

WAKEFIELD HIGH SCHOOL

ARLINGTON PUBLIC SCHOOLS

Arlington, VA

NORTHERN VIRGINIA REGIONAL SCIENCE AND ENGINEERING FAIR 2017 1

TABLE OF CONTENTS

(AS) Animal Science ............................................................................................ 2

(BE) Behavioral & Social Sciences ...................................................................... 13

(BI) Biochemistry .............................................................................................. 40

(CH) Chemistry ................................................................................................. 47

(EN) Engineering ............................................................................................... 99

(EV) Earth and Environmental Sciences ........................................................... 124

(MC) Mathematics and Computer Science ....................................................... 164

(ME) Medical and Health Sciences ................................................................... 180

(MI) Microbiology ............................................................................................ 207

(PH) Physics and Astronomy ........................................................................... 222

(PS) Plant Sciences.......................................................................................... 271


(AS) ANIMAL SCIENCE

7 AS 100

Coast, Eliza

George Washington

The Effect of Dorsal Fin Size on Betta Fish Aggression

Abstract:

The focus of this project is to observe which size fins on an enemy betta fish makes Betta fish

show the most aggression. The steps to perform my experiment is to first set up my camera and

record the tank for the duration of the trial. Next, I will hold up the betta cutout with the varying

size of fins on a string to the tank. After that, I will observe the betta fish’s aggression towards

the cut out by watching the recorded video. I will repeat these steps for each trial and for each

fish.


(AS) ANIMAL SCIENCE

8 AS101

Donovan, Katherine

Mary Ellen Henderson

Wild Wild Worms! How Does Glucose Affect the Regeneration Speed of

Planaria?

Abstract:

The purpose of this experiment was to investigate the effect of glucose on the regeneration

speed of Dugesia Tigrina. The hypothesis was if planaria were submerged in a solution of 1

gram glucose mixed with 23 milliliters of spring water, then they would regenerate the fastest

because of cellular respiration. The cells in planaria need glucose to perform cellular respiration,

which helps more cells grow, allowing the planaria to grow longer much faster than worms

without glucose. 5 60 x 15 millimeter petri dishes were set up and filled with 23 milliliters of

spring water. 6 Dugesia Tigrina were placed into each dish. The amount of glucose per solution

increased from 0 grams of glucose to one gram of glucose with a 0.25 gram difference between

each level. The worms were decapitated and left in their solutions. All of the worms in the 0.50,

0.75, and 1 gram dishes died the first night. All of the worms in the control group survived, while

the worms in the 0.25 gram solution died over time, leaving only one on day 17. The difference

between the original average length and the length of the worms on day 17 was 0.26

centimeters for the control group and that same measurement for the 0.25 gram group was 0.34

centimeters. The results were invalid because the measuring tools were imprecise and the large

number of toxic solutions caused lack of data in the top 3 levels.


(AS) ANIMAL SCIENCE

8 AS 102

von Eckartsberg, Rose

Williamsburg

The Effect of Different Temperatures of Water on the Heart Rate of

Daphnia

Abstract:

The purpose of this experiment was to determine the effect of different temperatures of water on

the heart rate of daphnia. The materials that were used in this experiment were Live Daphnia,

Daphnia food (algae or phytoplankton), 4 cavity slides, distilled water, light microscope, timer, 4

graduated cylinders (100ml), hot plate, 2 pipettes, data table on graph paper to write down

results.

It was hypothesized that if the temperature of the water increases then the heart rate of the

daphnia will increase. The hypothesis was supported because as the temperatures increased

so did the heart rate. To explore this relationship between different temperatures of water and

the daphnia heart rate, an experiment was conducted with 10 trials and 5 levels of IV.

The warmer the water the faster the heart rate got because (Khan, 2008) increased

temperatures increase the daphnia metabolism. If the daphnias metabolism reaches a certain

point it could die. The heart speeds up to support the metabolism. What was not predicted was

that at 35ºC the heart rate was slower than 20ºC water. But then at 45ºC the heart rate shot

back up again. There was no reason found on why it happened.

The real life application for this experiment is the impact of global warming on marine life. With

this experiment it is possible to see what will happen in the future to marine life as the ocean

and freshwater sources get warmer. This experiment could help the future of the planet.


(AS) ANIMAL SCIENCE

8 AS 103

Curran, Delia

King, Hayley

Williamsburg

The effect of polarity of magnetized water on hatch rate of brine shrimp

Abstract:

It has been proven in many studies that magnetic water has generally positive properties and

could greatly impact life on earth. Other studies reported that magnetic water has a positive

effect on germination of plants. This project was designed to test if magnetized water impacted

the hatch rate of brine shrimp, and which pole of magnetization would be most beneficial. In

this project, magnets were placed with different poles facing inwards on beakers (north/north,

south/south, north/south, and no magnets). About 450 brine shrimp were put into separate

ramekins, each containing different pole magnetized water. Over the course of two days, the

brine shrimp were photographed, and counted to see how many had hatched. It was

hypothesized that if the water was magnetized with two north poles facing inwards, then the

most brine shrimp would hatch. This hypothesis was supported. The difference between the

north magnetized water, the highest, and no magnetization, the lowest hatch rate, varied

significantly. Although south pole magnetization had a slightly higher hatch rate over

north/south, it was not as significant because the averages between the two were very close.

This project did prove magnetized water did help and if you were to use it, north/north would be

most effective. A future experiment could be testing the effect of polarity of magnetized water

on plants, and then possibly humans. This study is relevant to the real world because

magnetized water increases crop yields, which is extremely helpful for a growing nation.


(AS) ANIMAL SCIENCE

8 AS 104

Feist, Haylee

Dean, Piper

Williamsburg

The Effect of Drugs on Ghost Shrimp

Abstract:

Pharmaceutical (drug) pollution is a huge issue in freshwater environments such as water

supplies, rivers, lakes and other waterways. It has been observed that when drugs are

improperly disposed of, they can enter water sources and lead to negative effects on freshwater

environments. Palaemonetes paludosus (ghost shrimp) are important food sources to other

organisms, and commonly found in north american water sources. In this project, ghost shrimp

are being tested as a representative of freshwater organisms. This study was conducted to

discover the negative and positive effects of drugs on freshwater organisms. Three types of

drugs were tested, ibuprofen, diphenhydramine and caffeine, as well as a control of no drug. It

was hypothesized that caffeine would produce a higher heart rate whereas diphenhydramine

would slow the heart rate down. Ibuprofen was hypothesized to also slow the shrimp's’ heart

rate. Each shrimp tested was given a controlled dose of one of the drugs, and the heartbeat of

the shrimp was counted and recorded. The results of this experiment proved that when the

shrimp ingested caffeine, it’s heart rate sped up whereas when the shrimp ingested ibuprofen or

diphenhydramine it’s heart rate slowed down.


(AS) ANIMAL SCIENCE

9 AS 105

Comenetz, Benjamin

George Mason

The effect of amount and type of sugar on yeast growth

Abstract:

The purpose of this experiment is to find out what different types and amounts of sugars will do

to yeast. I cooked ingredients together to make a type of bread/muffin.

The experiment did not support the first hypothesis. The hypothesis was, If brown sugar is

added, the yeast will rise more than with other sugars. The cane sugar and the no sugar grew

the most. Cane sugar and no sugar grew to 45.25mm and everything else was less that that.

The next two tests did support the second and third hypotheses. The hypotheses were, if more

sugar is added, the yeast will rise more and If more yeast is added, the bread will rise more.

When more sugar was added, the muffins/breads did grow slightly more and when more yeast

was added the bread did grow more.


(AS) ANIMAL SCIENCE

9 AS 106

Rayome, Barclay

T.C. Williams

Plastic Predators: An Experimentation on the Biodegradation of Plastics

Abstract:

The purpose of my experiment was to find which type of plastic (high density polyethylene, low-

density polyethylene, and polystyrene) mealworms would consume. During this experiment, I

investigated a quality of mealworms recently revealed to the science community: a bacteria

strain within the gut of a mealworm that enables it to break down certain plastics. I hypothesized

that the mealworms would be able to consume polystyrene more than the other plastics based

on my research. In order to conduct my experiment, I used grocery bags, sandwich bags, and

styrofoam packaging to represent high density polyethylene, low-density polyethylene, and

polystyrene. From here, I tested to see which plastics the mealworms would consume, and I

measured the mass of the plastics every day for several weeks. By the end of my experiment, I

discovered that the styrofoam was less mass than the high density polyethylene and low-density

polyethylene in all twenty-one trials, showing that it had been consumed the most by the

mealworms. This meant that my hypothesis was supported; the mealworms did consistently

consume polystyrene more than the other plastics.


(AS) ANIMAL SCIENCE

10 AS 107

Waldman, Ethan

Washington-Lee

The Effect of the Gender of Songbirds on the Likelihood of Their Bearing

Ectoparasites

Abstract:

This experiment studied the effect of the sex of songbirds on the likelihood of the bird bearing

ectoparasites (e.g., lice, mites, and ticks). Ectoparasites can be passive, or extremely harmful

to birds (damaging feathers/bones, and restricting flight). The study used data collected by the

Northern Virginia Teen Birding Club via bird banding between 1985 and 1994 (“old data”) and

between 2002 and 2015 (“new data”). It was hypothesized that female songbirds would more

often bear ectoparasites because they spend more time in their nests incubating eggs, making

them an easier target for ectoparasites.

Using Chi-Squared tests, this experiment evaluated whether there were differences in the

percentage of: (1) female vs. male songbirds bearing ectoparasites in the combined dataset; (2)

female birds bearing ectoparasites in the “old data” vs. the “new data”; (3) male birds bearing

ectoparasites in the “old data” vs. the “new data”; (4) female vs. male birds bearing

ectoparasites in the “old data” only; and (5) female vs. male birds bearing ectoparasites in the

“new data” only.

The Chi-Squared tests yielded p-values of 0.65, 0.079, 0.198, 0.443, and 0.463, respectively.

While there were no statistically significant differences, it is important to note that the within-sex

comparisons of “old data” vs. “new data” were trending toward significance, suggesting a

possible decrease in the likelihood of birds bearing ectoparasites over the past 30 years. The

difference, if any, may be due to environmental changes, deforestation, or increased use of

pesticides, and warrants further study.


(AS) ANIMAL SCIENCE

11 AS 108

Bowers, Nicholas

Yorktown

The Effect of the Amount of American Oysters on the Rate of Change in

Turbidity in Water

Abstract:

The reason for performing this experiment was to discover how the turbidity of water changes

due to the addition of varying amounts of oysters. It was hypothesized that if the effect of the

amount of oysters is tested on the rate of change in turbidity in water, then the rate of change

will be a positive linear correlation that levels out at the amount of oysters capable of filtering

down to <5 NTU. The three levels of the independent variable were 10 oysters per tank, 20 per

tank, and 30 per tank, with three trials performed per level. For each trial of the experiment, the

certain amount of oysters were placed in a 10 gallon tank with bay water, and the turbidity was

recorded using a turbidity meter before and after 30 minutes of exposure to the water, and the

change in these measurements from new to original was recorded. The logarithmic NTU values

were used as such in the data tables and graphs, but these values were also converted into cm

of visibility values for a linear scale. After these nine trials were conducted, the data showed that

the amount of oysters did not have a significant impact on the rate of change of turbidity in the

water. Thus, the null hypothesis could not be rejected, and this was mostly due to varying

starting levels of turbidity caused by an artificial increase in turbidity (addition of fine soil to the

water in the later trials of the experiment).


(AS) ANIMAL SCIENCE

11 AS 109

Harris, Fiona

H-B Woodlawn

Temporal, Seasonal, and Lunar Influences on the Singing Patterns of

Regional Ensifera Species

Abstract:

The singing patterns of sixteen Ensifera species, specifically cricket and katydid, were observed

as the year progressed from autumn to winter. The purpose was to track the changes in cricket

songs, such as sonic and temporal frequency, in relation to the time of year, temperature, moon

phases, and localized environmental differences. Every variation of song that was heard during

the observation was recorded. There were several hypotheses. These included that low

temperatures would result in fewer songs heard, closer proximity to water would increase songs

heard, and the sonic frequency of the songs would be higher at greater temperatures. However,

the project evolved as it progressed, leading to shifts in the process and hypotheses early in the

experimental process, such as the added observation of the moon phases. The IV levels were

the passage of time, the temperature, and the phase of the moon. The DV levels were sonic

frequency of the songs, total number of species singing, and number of specimens heard, both

within a species and overall. Observations were made over approximately 30 to 40 minutes,

between 7:30 pm and 8:30 pm, for each evening that data was gathered. Two locations were

visited: one close to a stream and one far from it, but within a quarter mile of each other. The

field width was around 150 feet in diameter for each location and the area for where

observations could be made was kept constant. Observations began on September 21st and

ended on December 17th.


(AS) ANIMAL SCIENCE

12 AS 110

Blanton, Lex

Bishop O'Connell

THE EFFECT OF COEFFICIENT OF INBREEDING ON THE INSTANCE

RATE OF CANINE HIP DYSPLASIA AND OSTHEOARTHRITIS

Abstract:

Canine Hip Dysplasia (CHD) and Osteoarthritis is one of the most common skeletal and genetic

diseases found among the canine population. Recent scientific studies have advised breeders

to submit hip radiograph images to the Orthopedic Foundation of Animals for review, and only

breed dogs who are phenotypically free from CHD. This breeding strategy has the potential to

greatly reduce breeding population, especially for breeds with high CHD instance rates, or an

already small gene pool. This study hopes to determine if an increase in the coefficient of

inbreeding (COI%) has any effect on the instance rate of CHD. Results of this study aim to aid

breeders in determining which breeding strategies will better preserve the health and integrity of

the breeds they work with.


(BE) BEHAVIORAL & SOCIAL SCIENCES

7 BE 200

Bonner, Kaia

H-B Woodlawn

how music effeacts your haertrate

Abstract:

I picked this experiment because one day I was in the kitchen with my dad. He was in a bad

mood and his favorite song came on and he cheered up. That’s when I realized my science

experiment was right before my eyes. At first, I was going to do how music effects your mood

but you cant really measure mood so I thought that heart rate was the closest thing. My

hypothesis was that classical music would make your heart rate go down and rock would make

it go up but it was the opposite, which was interesting.



7 BE 201

Leblond, Mathilde

H-B Woodlawn

Fake vs Real: Who is Better at Telling the Difference Between Natural and

Artificial Flavors?

Abstract:

In Mathilde Leblond's experiment, Fake vs Real: Who is Better at Telling the Difference

Between Natural and Artificial Flavors?, Mathilde hypothesized that girls would do better, thanks

to their more refined sense of taste. Mathilde conducted an experiment testing twelve test

subjects from each gender, and giving them three products: butter, maple syrup, and lemonade.

Each product had its artificial equivalent given to the test subjects as well. Mathilde’s results

were quite interesting, because the boy’s results were more consistent than the girl’s results, but

if Mathilde would have just tested the butter and lemonade products, the girls would have been

way better than the boys. The boys only used the “both” or “none” option twice, compared to

three times with the girls, leading Mathilde to conclude that boys were more sure of their

decision, therefore, they knew for sure that they were picking the natural flavor.



7 BE 202

Love, Hannah

H-B Woodlawn

What is the Effect of One's Personality on Cat or Dog Preference

Abstract:

I chose this experiment because I could either confirm or disprove some stereotypes about cat

people and dog people. My research question was “What is the Effect of One’s Personality on

Their Preference for Cats or Dogs?” My hypothesis was that cat people would be mostly

introverted, observant, thinking, and judging, while dog people would be mostly extroverted,

intuitive, feeling, and prospecting.. My reasoning for this was that dogs themselves tend to be

curious, playful, and extroverted while cats tend to be less social and more solitary. I tested my

hypothesis by asking 25 seventh grade students to take a Myers Briggs test and recorded their

preference for cats or dogs. My results were that dog people, cat people, and people who had

no preference for cats or dogs were mostly extroverted, intuitive, feeling, and prospecting. A

higher percentage of cat people were introverted, observant, thinking, and judging than dog

people, which led me to conclude that the personality traits extroverted, intuitive, feeling, and

prospecting are generally more common, but cat people are more likely to have the opposite

four traits.



7 BE 203

Connor, Ephraim

Snavely, Cole

H-B Woodlawn

Coke Vs. Pepsi: The Effect of Suggestion on Taste

Abstract:

The experiment is called Coke vs. Pepsi: the Effect of Suggestion on Taste. The hypothesis is

that the test subjects could not tell that Coke was inside of both the Pepsi and Coke bottle.

Background information supports the hypothesis because Jimmy Kimmel did an experiment like

this and not many people could tell that they were the same. This is called the Placebo Effect.

The Placebo Effect is when someone thinks they are getting medication but the medication is

fake. However, the patient thinks it's real and they get positive results. This can affect the world

so that people can be aware when you are under a hoax and improve studies using Placebos.

First a from was made for subjects to write their age, gender and preference. Next Coke was

poured into the Pepsi bottle and refrigerated. To test the subjects, the subjects drank the Coke

and “Pepsi” and recorded their preference. After testing 35 people, only 7 people, or 20%, said

that they tasted the same liquid. Out of 24 girls tested, 5, or 21%, figured out they were the

same, and out of 11 boys tested, 2, or 18%, figured out they were the same. Everyone tested

was 12 or 13 years old, except one person who was 26. To improve the experiment, testing

more people and having an equal amount of subjects from each gender would further the

experiment. However, the experiment did a good job of showing that the power of suggestion

definitely affects taste.



8 BE 204

Almand, Kiernan

Hammond

A Walk Down Memory Lane

Abstract:

The purpose of performing this experiment was to find out if age affected Serial Position Effect.

Serial Position Effect is the combination of Primacy Effect and Recency Effect. Primacy

Effect is the phenomenon that, when encountered with a list, people tend to remember words at

the beginning of the list over those in the middle. Recency Effect is that, when faced with a list,

people are inclined to remember things at the end of the list over things in the middle. The

hypothesis of this experiment was that people in the age range of 25-29 would do the best at

remembering words from the list in general and also that they would best demonstrate Serial

Position Effect. To test the hypothesis, 30 people of 15 different ages listened to a recording of

15 random words then were asked to recite as many of the words as they could recall. To keep

the experiment as constant as possible, all of the subjects were tested using the same script.

Once all of the examinees had undergone the experiment, the data showed that, not only did

the subjects of the age group 25-29 remember the least amount of words but they also showed

the least amount of Serial Position Effect. The information collected did not show that Serial

Position Effect was affected by age and, if further experimentation of this topic were to be

conducted, a new question could be “Does the length of the list effect Serial Position Effect?”.



8 BE 205

Dhakal, Abby

Jefferson

What is the effect of different fonts on a choice?

Abstract:

Psychology plays a huge role in the choices made. Research states that there is a relationship

between psychology and type fonts. The research objective of this experiment was to find the

effects of different fonts on a choice. This experiment was designed to test the hypothesis that

the Serif font would be the most selected font. Five advertisements were designed with the

same placement, slogan and picture, but with different fonts. Then thirty five adult test subjects

were asked, which font they prefer out of the group of advertisements. It was found that thirty

four percent of the total test subjects preferred the Serif font. The research hypothesis was

accepted, as it was concluded that the Serif font is the most preferable font based on its

legibility.



8 BE 206

Gamboa, Sophie

Gunston

The Effect of Age on Trust Perception

Abstract:

Often times adults assume teenagers are not trustworthy. As a result teens are often dismissed

or ignored in general conversation. This project was performed to find out if it was simply teens

that were considered untrustworthy. The goal of the project was to find out whether there was a

prejudice, based on age, when first meeting someone. Each volunteer was asked to fill out a

questionnaire, rating each subject. The project was based around the idea of first impressions,

because of this each volunteer only got to watch each subject once. Based on the data, young

girls and teen girls are considered least trustworthy, with the average scores being 5.3 and 5.7

(out of 10) respectively. Older women are considered the most trustworthy, with the average

score of 7.9. Contrary to what the predetermined idea was, teen boys were relatively average in

terms of score, all scores being approximately 6.55. The objective to find out if there was

prejudice towards a specific age group. Experiment both supported the hypothesis, and also did

not. The original hypothesis that teens are least trustworthy was not supported. However the

hypothesis that older women are considered the most trustworthy was supported. The

experiment could have been more accurate, if a larger age range was used in the test group.

This project could be used in multiple demanding markets. If expanded upon, and made into a

larger experiment, this research could shed much needed light on the possibility of an age

based prejudice.



8 BE 207

Gibbon, Georgia

H-B Woodlawn

Which Political Advertisements are More Persuasive: Positive or Negative?

Abstract:

My project is titled “Which Political Advertisements are More Persuasive: Positive or Negative?”

I was inspired by the recent election to test this experiment. There has been lots of questions

surrounding the legitimacy of political advertisements aired on TV, radio, and the internet quite

often recently. There has been accusations and observations on the type of advertisements

each candidate decided to air, and why. In this experiment, I wanted to see whether positive or

negative advertisements are more convincing, and to understand more why politicians air the

ads they do. My hypothesis was that negative advertisements are more persuasive, because

they shed light on certain flaws of the opposing candidate and make people more suspicious

towards them. In order to test my hypothesis, I make six 30-second advertisements for a fake

election, Candidate A versus Candidate B. Candidate A’s ads were all positive about herself,

and Candidate B’s ads were all negative towards A. I compiled all of the advertisements

together and instructed my test subject to quietly watch the ad compilation. After each test

subject viewed the advertisements, they would vote. My data disproved my hypothesis, as

Candidate B received approximately 36% of the votes, and Candidate A received 64%. In

conclusion, my subjects tended to be more swayed by positive ads, because they found them

more comforting and sincere. This experiment could be applied to real life to help somebody

running in any sort of election know which advertising tactics help people trust and support them

more.



8 BE 208

Humphrey, Mia

George Washington

The Evolution of Dynamics and Loudness Range in Popular Songs from

1960 to 2009

Abstract:

This investigation studied the evolution of loudness range (LRA) in the top ten most popular

songs from each decade from 1960 to 2009. The hypothesis of the investigation stated that if

the loudness ranges of the most popular songs of each decade are analyzed, then data will

show the LRA of the songs will decrease with time. To test this theory, the top ten most popular

songs from each decade from 1960 to 2009 were put through a sound editing and analysis

program (Hindenburg Journalist PRO) that measured their LRA.

The data did not support the hypothesis. The data shows that the average LRA of the 1960s

was 5.1 Loudness Units (“LU”). The 1970s had an average LRA of 6.8 LU, the 1980s had a LRA

of 6.9 LU, the average LRA of the 1990s was 7.1 LU, and the average LRA of the 2000s was

5.22 LU. This meant LRA increased and then decreased instead of gradually decreasing.

The LRA evolved this way because of the differences in the genres of music that were popular.

The data showed that from 1960 to 1999, there was an increase in the number of songs that

expressed emotion. These songs typically have a larger LRA. In contrast, songs that have very

repetitive chord progressions and rhythmic patterns typical used in many pop, rock, dance and

rap songs have smaller dynamic ranges. This became evident in the 2000s, when pop and rap

music became popular and LRAs decreased.



8 BE 209

Olson, Lucinda

H-B Woodlawn

What Are the Top 3 Stressors for H-B Woodlawn 8th Grade Students?

Abstract:

I'm interested in the effects that stress has on teens and what factors stress teens the most. My

research question is, “What is the top stressor for 8th graders at H-B Woodlawn?” My

hypothesis is that school would be the top stressor. I tested my hypothesis by creating a google

survey that asked each participant what their top three stressors were, in order from least to

greatest. The categories that they chose from were school, life at home, self-esteem, peers and

social life and other. The data confirmed my hypothesis, that eighth graders’ most common

stressor was school related - tests, homework and grades. The second and third most common

stressors were peers and social life, and self-esteem.



8 BE 210

Peche, Kimberly

Jefferson

What is the effect of different test forms on completion speed?

Abstract:

The research goal of this experiment was to find the effects of different test forms, paper and

iPad, on completion speed of a nine question math quiz. The experiment was conducted by

timing ten Algebra One Intensified students on how long it took them to finish nine math

questions on paper, then on an iPad. They would take the iPad quiz first with a calculator, then

they would take the iPad quiz with the same questions. The students were timed with a

stopwatch on an iPad and the time was converted into seconds. It was found that students

would finish faster on the paper quiz and take longer on the iPad quiz. It was concluded that

students will finish quizzes or tests faster on paper and not om an iPad.



8 BE 211

Rapazzo, Laura

Jefferson

The Effect Of Different Types Of Peppermint Flavored Hard Candies On

How Well Someone Can Complete A Timed Math Quiz

Abstract:

The research objective of this experiment was to investigate the effect of different types of

peppermint flavored hard candies on how well someone can complete a timed math quiz. It was

hypothesized that, if a test subject is given a starlight peppermint flavored hard candy while they

complete a math quiz, then the test subject will correctly complete more questions than other

peppermint flavored hard candies. This experiment is important to the world and can improve

the lives of many because, education is important and if there is a way to improve it, like eating

peppermints while taking a test, it will improve people's lives. This project was chosen because

the experimenter's elementary school principal gave the students peppermints before their

SOLs and read an article about how peppermints help you concentrate and do better on a test.

In the experiment, test subjects were given a peppermint candy to eat while taking a math quiz.

Then their test score was recorded. The experimental results did support my hypothesis,

although, the data was very spread out and did not hold a pattern. It was concluded that that

peppermints help you focus and do better on tests, but more and better tests would be needed

to find out if it was really effective.



8 BE 212

Shvedova, Leah

Kenmore

The Effect of Indirect Outside Influence on Personal Opinion

Abstract:

The experiment was conducted to test the effect of peer pressure on personal opinion. The

purpose of the experiment was to see the effect of influence on opinion. It was hypothesised

that If there is an indirect outside influence, then the influence will affect the opinion positively or

negatively depending on the social status of the influence . The experiment was conducted as

follows. A survey was created with seven choices to list color preference from greatest

preference to least preference and a question asking what attracted the participant to the top

three. Another survey was created ranking the influence from 1-5. The participants were tested

and the results were analyzed. Students came back in a week and were tested again, this time

they were influenced. The participants took the survey ranking the influence. The results of the

experiment showed that 7/13 people rejected the peer pressure, 4/13 didn't react, and 2/13

accepted the peer pressure. The hypothesis was rejected.



8 BE 213

Kruger, Ilene

Brown, Elizabeth

H-B Woodlawn

False Memory and the Power of Suggestion

Abstract:

The experiment was done because the experimenters believed that this was a phenomena that

may affect both court cases and psychology, they wanted to see how peer pressure affected

people on a larger scale than their daily experiences. The research question was: How does

deliberate suggestion affect recollection of specific details in an image? The hypothesis was that

most people would change their answer in response to the suggestion. Because the

experimenters thought that if the subjects believed that everyone in the group was telling exactly

what they saw, that they would trust the group more than themselves, therefore keeping the

data as accurate as possible. The hypothesis was tested by running the experiment and

examining the results, which showed that our hypothesis was somewhat supported. Most

people did change their answers, but not everyone changed their answers to the ones that we

deliberately suggested. In conclusion, the results were inconclusive, and more testing is

required to draw any concrete conclusions. However, it was learned that suggestion was a

viable interference, and people’s memories can be changed with something as simple as word

choice.



8 BE 214

Sassin, Danielle

Jamison, Elizabeth

Gunston

The effect of color on the perception of taste

Abstract:

Big companies are always adding artificial color to food and beverages to make the product

more appealing to the consumer’s eyes. The purpose of this experiment was to see how the

color of a drink affects people’s opinions on taste. The testing that was done shows how these

colorful dyes really do affect people and what they purchase and taste. The goal of the project

was to find the effect of color on the perception of taste. 60 participants tried six drinks each,

then were given a questionnaire to answer asking what flavor they thought each drink was and

what their favorite drink was. The trick was that all of the drinks were the exact same soda,

simply dyed 6 different colors including the control, which was the original drink without any food

dye. After experimentation the scientists concluded that only 14 people were able to tell that the

drinks were the same, leaving 36 that were not. The experiment that was done is very important

to not only the scientific community but anyone who has ever purchased anything with artificial

coloring. The scientists did meet the objectives of the experiment because we learned that color

does affect taste.



8 BE 215

Wu, Rebecca

Pollock, Ainsley

Gunston

The Effect of Presence on Honesty

Abstract:

The experimenters observed that the honor system has declined in use and wondered why. To

figure this out, an experiment was created and it looked at the effect of presence on honesty. A

table was set up in the cafeteria with a bin filled with mints for people to take to conduct the

experiment. It was found that when there were two people at the table saying “Take one”, an

average of 17.4 people took one mint, 6.6 took more than one, and 1 took less than one. This

shows that people will do as asked when reminded to. When the experimenters were not paying

attention to the subjects, an average of 13.8 people took one mint, 10.4 took more than one,

and 0.8 took less than one. The variable of the student government table beside the mints stand

showed an average of 9.2 people taking one mint, 15.8 taking more than one, and 0 taking less

than one. When there was no one at the table, an average of 3.2 took one, 21.6 took more than

one, and 0.2 took less than one. This shows that when people feel there are no consequences,

they do whatever they wish. The data supported the hypothesis and it will be useful to have

when someone wants to use the honor system. People will be able to use these findings to

judge whether or not they believe the honor system is effective.



9 BE 216

Bahl, Anika

Washington-Lee

The Effect of Background Noise on Cognitive Ability

Abstract:

Sounds that humans hear can deeply affect the way their brains process things. The purpose of

this experiment was to determine the respective effects of different types of sounds on cognitive

problem solving ability and mathematical performance. The hypothesis stated that if background

noise was playing then participants would have worse mathematical performance as all sounds

travel across the auditory nervous pathway to prefrontal cortex, which would hinder problem

solving performance.

Data was collected in five different experimental groups (control, nature sounds, Mozart, pop

music, conversation) in which separate human subjects were timed taking the same test. For

the purpose of data analysis, the two separate variables of time and score were contained to a

single number which could then be analyzed. This number was the ACP (time divided score).

The collected data indicated distinct differences between experimental groups with the control,

nature sounds, Mozart, pop music and conversation groups performing best to worst in that

order. Using an ANOVA test involving the ACPs, the null hypothesis was rejected and the

hypothesis supported. However, to conclusively confirm any findings, additional research would

need to conducted through an improved experiment in order to retest and further validate the

hypothesis.



9 BE 217

Baker, Josie

H-B Woodlawn

The Effect of Audible Cell Phone Notifications on Reading Comprehension

Abstract:

With all of the sounds in regular life today, among the most distracting to teens are frequent

notifications from cell phones. The purpose of the experiment was to determine whether high

school students were able to retain information with the distraction of constant cell phone

notifications. Students were asked to read a short, nonfiction text and answer five questions

about the reading immediately after. For the project, there were three groups: a control group,

which had no notifications during reading and answering questions; group two, which had

notifications during reading only; and group three, which had notifications during both reading

and answering questions. The hypothesis was that the control group would have the highest

retention while group three would have the lowest retention. Preliminary results support the

hypothesis. Initial data indicate a 20 percentage point difference between the control group and

group three, with the control group answering the highest percentage of correct answers at

60%, compared to 48% for group two, and 40% for group three. The implications of this study

could be valuable to students, teachers, and parents when determining the effects on teens of

distractions while reading and studying.



9 BE 218

Buckley, Alice

Arlington Tech

The Effect of Various Genres of Music on Cognitive Ability

Abstract:

In “The Effect of Various Genres of Music on Cognitive Ability,” tests were given to 30 human

participants to determine if and what type of music affected the brain’s cognitive abilities. It was

hypothesized that tests taken while classical music played would have the highest scores

because studies show that music with lyrics is distracting to people trying to read/write.

Three balanced-gender age groups of 10 participants each were arranged for this study: 7-10

years, 11-19 years, and 20-75 years. Participants took three written tests, each with different

questions but similar intensity levels. The tests were created using 5 math questions and 5

reading comprehension questions from released Virginia SOL tests. The 7-10 age group took

third-grade tests; the 11-19 age group took sixth-grade tests; and the 20-75 age group took

tests with ninth-grade math questions and twelfth-grade reading questions.

Participants took the first test in complete silence. For the second test, a pre-assembled

selection of classical music played. For the final test, pop songs played. Tests were scored as

correct answers out of 10. The scores for all age and gender groups were calculated, averaged

and graphed.

The age groups each yielded different results. Both the oldest and youngest age groups

disproved the hypothesis, while the middle age group supported the hypothesis. The oldest age

group worked best in silence; the middle age group worked best to classical music; and the

youngest age group worked best to pop music. There were no significant differences in results

by gender.



9 BE 219

Young, Rio

George Mason

The Effect of Birth Order on Myers-Briggs Personality Type

Abstract:

The Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) is a popular means of categorizing personality which

can also predict preferred learning styles, job performance and expected behavior. Tailoring

teaching to the preferred learning style of a student can improve academic outcomes. We

investigated the interaction between birth order and the Myers-Briggs personality indicator of

169 high school students and found that certain personality traits were prevalent in particular

birth order groups. Our findings suggest that educators and parents can use birth order as an

indicator of MBTI. Using birth order as a proxy for MBTI may help improve choices of methods

for communicating with, caring for and educating children from an early age. We collected birth

order information and Myers-Briggs test results from students at George Mason High School in

Falls Church, Virginia. Birth order was separated into ‘oldest’, ‘youngest’, and ‘only child’

categories, with a final ‘middle’ category for all children who did not belong to the other

categories. The data suggested the surprising finding that ‘youngest’ children are

disproportionately introverted; 52% of ‘youngest’ children are introverts.

‘Middle’ children had the highest percentage (92%) of “feeling” individuals than the other birth

order groups. The ENFP combination was over-represented among the ‘oldest’ children and the

MBTI types for ’only’ children were spread quite evenly. These significant differences across the

birth order hierarchy suggest that birth order is correlated to personality type, at least before we

experience the adult world for ourselves.



10 BE 220

Gormley, Angela

Yorktown

The Effect of Type of Clothing on First Impressions

Abstract:

The purpose of this experiment is to test how clothing affects first impressions given off to

others.

Procedures: Draw pictures in black ink of the outfits being tested (dress, t-shirt/jean shorts, tank

top/short-shorts, dress shirt/jeans, hoodie/leggings) and label them. Type a survey asking the

question, “Rank the outfits from 1-5 (5 is highest, can’t repeat numbers) based upon which of

the wearers you think would be the most __________”, three times, filling in the blank with self-

confident, intelligent, and fun-loving. Give the survey to the test subjects along with the pictures

for reference.

Quantitative data was collected by having female students rank five outfits from 1-5 based upon

which which of the wearers were the most confident, intelligent, and fun-loving. The means

showed that the dress was the most confident, the dress shirt/jeans was the most intelligent,

and the tank top/short-shorts was the most fun-loving. This was supported by the medians, and

mostly by the modes.

An ANOVA test was performed on the data. The p-values were 0.000008227059113 for

confidence, 0 for intelligence, and 0.02310488574 for fun-loving; therefore, the null hypothesis

was rejected. There is a statistically significant difference in the data.

The dress was ranked as the most confident because it attracts attention and is revealing. The

dress shirt/jeans were ranked as the most intelligent because the outfit is formal and practical.

The tank top/short-shorts were ranked as the most fun-loving because they are worn outdoors

when doing activities.



10 BE 221

Sawyer, Allison

Yorktown

The Effect of Age on Short-term Memory

Abstract:

The purpose of this experiment was to test the effect of age on short-term memory. Since the

brain’s volume and blood flow decrease with age, this experiment was to show if adults over the

age of 30 had a worse memory than high school students. This is an important study because it

could show adults that they can not rely on their memory 100% of the time to remember

important information or tasks.

To perform this experiment, you need two decks of cards. The first must have twenty different

cards. The second must have ten that are the same as the first deck, and ten that are different

than the first deck. To administer the test, show the participants the first deck of cards for thirty

seconds. Next, show them the second deck, one by one, having them answer yes if the card

they are seeing was in the original deck and no if it was not. Record their responses out of

twenty possible correct answers.

Overall, high school students did much better than adults in all sections of the test. In seventeen

of the twenty individual trials, the high school participants got more correct answers than adults.

For this experiment, the T-test was used to test the data to see if it is statically significant. The

T-test proved the data was significant with a p value of 0. In the end, the hypothesis was

proven correct.



10 BE 222

O'Brien, Samantha

Hans, Madeline

Yorktown

The Effect of Hair Color and Hairstyle on Perceived Intelligence

Abstract:

The purpose of the experiment was to find the effect of hair color and hairstyle on perceived

intelligence. The experiment was completed by selecting a picture of a man and photoshopping

the picture to have black, blonde, brown, red, and unnatural hair colors. The pictures were put

on a survey that sixty people completed. Each participant completed the survey by rating each

person in the pictures on a scale of one to ten, one having no intelligence and ten being genius

level. The participants then followed the same procedure, rating four pictures of a man with a

buzz cut, long, man bun, and short hairstyle. After the survey was completed, the ratings were

used to calculate averages and put into graphs. This experiment is important in order for

stereotypes to be recognized and avoided. The results for the hair color variable show that the

black hair was perceived to be most intelligent with a rating of 7.00. The blonde hair was

perceived to be least intelligent with a rating of 5.38. The results from the hairstyle variable

show that the short hair was perceived to be most intelligent with a rating of 7.23. The man bun

was perceived as least intelligent with a rating of 4.20. If the experiment were to be repeated the

experimenters would improve it by testing a larger quantity of people, placing test participants in

individual rooms, testing more hair characteristics, and improving the quality of the pictures.



11 BE 223

Hall, Jacob

H-B Woodlawn

The Effect of Highway Font Type on the Readability of Text Under Blurred

Conditions

Abstract:

This experiment is meant to compare typefaces that are used on major highway systems

around the world by testing how well they can be read under blurred conditions. To test this, an

online survey tool was created to collect demographic information about the participant, then

present them with a randomly blurred selection of words in a given typeface, and then ask them

to type what they see. The data collected will then be analyzed to determine which fonts

perform the best under blurred conditions, and a conclusion will be drawn on whether there are

fonts that perform better under such conditions and if there are certain characteristics that set

those fonts apart. These findings will help governments and other authoritative organizations

decide which fonts to use on signage, and possibly in other scenarios as well, such as forms or

websites.



11 BE 224

Filon, Jacob

Manzanares, Emely

Thurston, Megumi

Wakefield

The effect of gender on susceptibility to peer pressure

Abstract:

The purpose of the experiment was to find out which gender (male or female) was more

susceptible to peer pressure. This topic was chosen because in a high-school environment,

adolescents deal with peer pressure daily.

The hypothesis of the experiment was that adolescent boys would be more susceptible to peer

pressure than adolescent girls. To test the hypothesis, twenty co-ed groups consisting of five

11th graders were presented a five-question multiple choice test. The students were asked to

compare the length of a geometric line to four other lines, and say which of the four was the

same length as the original. The test was designed so that the answer should have been

obvious to the participants. In each group, the first four participants were instructed to give the

same wrong answer, with the fifth person being the actual subject of the test. Ten male and ten

female subjects were tested. The results showed both genders were equally susceptible to peer

pressure. Twenty-percent of the subjects (two males and two females) followed the four people

in the group and provided the same wrong answer given by the first four. Since males and

females equally conformed to their group’s answers even though clearly wrong, it was

concluded that gender has no effect on susceptibility to peer pressure.

The project could have been improved with more trials, and by using test subjects who didn’t

know each other. However, the findings help create a better understanding of gender

differences and conformity.



11 BE 225

Shamsuddin, Syeda

Shah, Sunam

Wakefield

Testing Wakefield's Kindness on Diversity

Abstract:

The purpose of this experiment was to investigate, whether or not, adolescents from Wakefield

High School convey kindness to their fellow diverse classmates. The scientists wanted to know

if the various types of ethnicities are accepted among the students. This experiment was

important because it could inform the community as a whole, about the possible racial injustice

that might exist in their public schools. The information found from this study can be utilized in

the resolution of the abolishment of traumatic inequalities that are continually materializing in the

mentality of adolescents. The hypothesis for the experiment was if a student witnesses another

peer dropping their materials that belong to an ethnic majority then they are more obligated to

help that peer out. The reason is due to the fact that in society, Caucasians (especially males)

have been superior throughout history and have been given the utmost respect whilst other

ethnic groups were shown less than the average regard. Although laws have been created in

order to prevent inequality regarding racism, prejudice and stereotypes continue to preexist.

After that, participants were gathered and instructed to drop materials in a semi-crowded

hallway and a camera-woman was placed to record the experiment, the other students were

asked why or why not they provided succor or expressed apathy .The results of the experiment

were unexpected, but the majority of the data stayed consistent. It did not completely support

the hypothesis due to the unexpected results found in the observed data of the African

demographic.



12 BE 226

Johnson, Cobie

T.C. Williams

Hierarchy In The Classroom: Effects of Race and Gender on Frequency of

Classroom Participation

Abstract:

Educational innovators all over the country continue to search for both the roots and the

solutions of the achievement gap: the disparity in academic achievements between students

based on gender and race. With distinct focus on the stereotype threat and its effect on

academic achievement, this project aims to see how this gap manifests in a classroom context

by tracking the effects of race and gender on frequency of classroom participation. Through an

observational study in eleventh grade AP English classes, participation rates were recorded for

15-minute increments and broken down by race and gender, with an additional group included

for students whose race or gender could not be determined. The number of students in each

demographic group was also recorded and then used to produce a rate of participation for each

demographic group. Analysis yielded a conclusion that students possessing some degree of

societal privilege (white students, males) dominated every observed classroom discussion,

whereas those who were not in a privileged group (women of color) did not dominate a single

data set. Furthermore, it was observed that in most cases, contributions made by white women

and men of color (subdominant groups) tended to be made by only a few members of the

demographic group, whereas contributions by white men tended to be more spread out within

the group. This allowed for a conclusion that possession of societal privilege increases

likelihood and frequency of classroom participation among high school students.


(BI) BIOCHEMISTRY

7 BI 300

Koury, Kelly

George Washington

Bioplastics the future

Abstract:

The focus of the project is to show that bioplastics are better than conventional plastics for the

environment. The experimental procedure shows that bioplastics can be made at home and

used to make excellent products like a container. The experiment to make a bioplastic has four

ingredients: cornstarch,water,glycerin and vinegar. The hypothesis is that if the proportion of

each ingredient changes the attributes such as strength and flexibility will change. The

ingredients are stirred in a pot on the stove and placed on a low burner. Once the mixture

thickens and is clear it is done. Place the mixture on a cookie sheet and let it dry for a week.

Repeat this four times varying the proportion of the same ingredients. This is round one of the

experiment. Compare the attributes of the bioplastics such as strength,flexibility and stiffness

and determine which ones can be a usable container. The round 2 experiments (6 in total)

were performed to see if better results could be found. The results of the data collection

showed that the attributes did change as the proportion of the ingredients changed. The

experiments with the most water were the strongest and made usable containers. The

experiment that had the most glycerin was the only one with no cracks, no shrinkage and was

flat. The experiment with the most cornstarch had the most cracks. There were only two

experiments that could not be folded in half without breaking. Both experiments had the same

amount of glycerin and vinegar.


(BI) BIOCHEMISTRY

7 BI 301

Miller, Grant

Swanson

The Rot Race; An Experiment on the Rate of Rot on Oranges, Apples and

Bananas

Abstract:

Have you ever wondered how long it takes fruit to rot? The experiment titled “The Rot Race”,

explores how fast a banana, an orange, and an apple rot. The purpose of this experiment is to

examine the effect of type of fruit on the speed at which it rots. The hypothesis was if the type of

fruit is changed then oranges will rot fastest because they have higher juice concentration. To

conduct this experiment 10 pieces of each fruit (65 g in mass) were sealed in plastic bags and

stored in a drawer at room temperature for 10 days. A centimeter grid was used to calculate the

percentage of the fruit covered in mold. The hypothesis was supported by the data. Oranges

rotted fastest with an average of 60% of each fruit covered in mold. Apples were second with an

average of 36% of each apple slice covered in mold. Bananas had an average of only 26%

mold growth per fruit. Upon analyzing the data, it appears that the reason the oranges rotted

faster is because their higher juice concentration facilitates mold spore growth and

decomposition. By contrast, the juice content in the apples and bananas is much lower and

therefore did not aid in mold growth and rotting of fruit.


(BI) BIOCHEMISTRY

8 BI 302

Rizkallah, Peter

Hammond

Strawberry Exraction

Abstract:

The purpose of this experiment is to determine if age interferes with the amount of DNA a

strawberry will contain after extraction. If the age of the strawberries increases, the amount of

DNA will decrease. If the strawberries are fresh, I believe that more DNA will be visible because

the cells are respiring. If the strawberry is one week old, it will still contain DNA because the

cells are still working due to supply of oxygen, but the cells are dying and the cells will soon stop

supporting the organism, and this is why this strawberry will have less DNA. If the strawberries

are 2 weeks old, I believe the DNA will not be visible during the extraction because the cells lack

oxygen and have died. The Strawberries were smashed and put in a jar. Then alcohol was

poured on the mixture. I gently picked up the DNA with a toothpick to place it in a jar to observe

how much DNA each strawberry contained. The Fresh Strawberry had the most DNA, the One

week old strawberry had some DNA, but not more than the Freshest, and the Two Week old

strawberry had no DNA at all.


(BI) BIOCHEMISTRY

9 BI 303

Nickelsburg, Leah

Jones, Kelly

T.C. Williams

The Effects of Different Laundry Detergents on Grass Growth and Stain

Removal

Abstract:

The purpose of this experiment was to find out if laundry detergents marketed as

environmentally friendly are actually better for the environment and whether or not

environmental friendliness affects a detergent’s ability to remove stains. A homemade detergent

was also tested to see if it was environmentally friendly and if it could remove stains. The

hypothesis was that our homemade detergent would not be as harmful to plants as

environmentally friendly or regular commercial brands and would remove stains just as well.

The harm that detergents caused to plants was tested by watering grass seeds with small

amounts of the different laundry detergents and measuring the average height of grass blades

over time. The stain removal was tested by soaking cloths in coffee and then washing them with

different detergents, then recording the saturation and brightness of pixels on pictures taken of

the cloths to determine how much of the stain color was left after washing. The results were that

all grass watered with laundry detergent mixed in with its water grew less than grass watered

with just water. The homemade laundry detergent allowed the grass to grow taller than the

commercial brands, and the grass with the third highest growth had been watered with a

detergent that was marketed as environmentally friendly. All laundry detergents removed the

stains similarly. This supported the hypothesis of the experiment. Homemade detergent can be

made and used with less potential harm to the environment and an equal stain removal effect.


(BI) BIOCHEMISTRY

10 BI 304

Davis, Matthew

Yorktown

The Effect of the Type of Nut on the Amount of Calories in a Food Sample

Abstract:

The purpose of this experiment was to find the effect of the type of nut on the amount of

Calories in a food sample. Approximate Calorie counts allow people to structure their diets

according to their specific nutritional needs. The hypothesis was that if the type of nut was a

macadamia, the number of Calories would be greatest. Other experiments have shown that

macadamias have a higher per-gram Calorie count and ratio of fat to total mass than cashews,

walnuts, or almonds. When burned to heat water in a homemade calorimeter, macadamia nuts

heated the water more than any of the other nut types, followed by cashews, walnuts, and

almonds. The hypothesis that macadamia nuts would have the greatest number of Calories

was accepted. The high fat content of macadamias likely contributed to this result. The p-value

of this experiment was <.001%, thus the null hypothesis was rejected. There were significant

differences in Calories between all the nut groups except between macadamias and cashews.

The average efficiency of the calorimeter across all trials was 40.85%, so there was a high

degree of error in the Calorie measurements. Possible sources of error could have included

burning part of the nut away before it actually caught fire and soot buildup on the bottom of the

small can blocking the nut fire from heating the water. Future experiments could be done with

larger amounts of water and nuts to find the feasibility of nuts as a fire fuel.


(BI) BIOCHEMISTRY

10 BI 305

Diamantopoulos, Kalista

T.C. Williams

How Does Preservation Method Affect the Calorie Content of Peas?

Abstract:

Vegetables are vital due to their nutritional value. However, they are perishable so it is

necessary to preserve them to extend their shelf life by either canning, freezing, or drying

methods. Depending on how it is preserved, a vegetable may have more or less calories and

nutrients. This problem is critical to society because with this information, consumers can make

healthier dietary choices and more financially conscious decisions concerning canned, frozen,

and dried vegetables, manufacturers could use this information to market their produce

according to its nutritional value, and this information is also useful in determining what

preservation method is better suited for providing food to people in developing countries that

may lack refrigeration and means to cook. This project calculates and compares calorie content

in canned, frozen, and dried peas. Fifteen canned, frozen, and canned peas were tested with a

calorimeter made from a small soup can filled with water, suspended in a larger coffee tin. The

temperature of the water was recorded before and after burning the pea. This information was

used to find the calorie content in the equation Q = mc (Final temperature-Initial temperature).

My data supported my hypothesis which was that if the pea was dried, then it would have a

higher calorie content. My data can also allowed for the comparison between nutrient value and

calorie content showing that certain preservation methods result in more nutrient retention than

others. Overall, the dried peas had more calories but the frozen and canned peas retained more


(BI) BIOCHEMISTRY

10 BI 306

Elby, Maya

Jones-Vincent, Mikayla

Washington-Lee

The Effect of Non-Chemiluminescent Forensic Blood Tests on Substances

Known to Render A False Positive Result under the Luminol Test

Abstract:

The purpose of this experiment was to investigate the effects of 2 common non-

chemiluminescent forensic blood tests, Phenolphthalein and Hemastix, on substances known to

render false-positive results under the luminol test. Although luminol is the most widely used

presumptive blood test at crime scenes, it can be highly inaccurate. In the past, indicative

chemiluminescent reactions have been triggered by a variety of substances.... fruits,

vegetables, varnishes, and condiments, to name a few. So the aim of this experiment was to

determine if one or both of the non-chemiluminescent tests could serve as a more suitable or

accurate alternative to luminol for forensic investigators. It was hypothesized that these 2 tests

would, in fact, be less susceptible to false positivity than luminol is, because their reagents are

generally less sensitive to iron compounds. 5 substances were used on the three blood tests

(luminol was used as a control). Both the raw beef and the bleach samples rendered false-

positives at a rate of 100%. Turnips came in at 50%, with bananas close behind at 23%.

Horseradish was the only substance to never fool any of the 3 presumptive tests, with a final

false positivity rate of 0%. In addition to the trial substances, the three tests also had significant

variance in false positivity rates. Luminol had a total rate of 64%. Hemastix came up with 60%.

The Phenolphthalein was by far the most accurate of the 3. Its false positivity rate was a mere

40%.


(CH) CHEMISTRY

7 CH 400

Bjorklund, Annika


Paint Dries? The Length of Time it Takes for Different Types of Paint to Dry

Abstract:

The purpose of this experiment was to find out what type of paint, in this case acrylic, tempera,

and watercolor paint, dried fastest. The time was measured every 30 seconds, except for the

first test where it was measured after a minute. Using a syringe, 1 cc of paint was collected and

then placed on poster board in a drop. To flatten the paint without using different pressures, a

200-gram weight was placed on the drop for 5 seconds and then lifted again. Every time the

paint was tested for dryness, a piece of printer paper was placed on the trial, quickly followed by

the 200 g weight. After 5 seconds of the weight being placed on the paint, the weight and paper

were lifted and the paper checked for the presence of paint.

The results found that watercolor paint dried fastest followed by tempera paint, and then acrylic

paint. This is because the solvent, or base, of the watercolor paint is water whereas in the other

two paints the solvent is oil. A paint with a water solvent, which dries through the evaporation of

the solvent, takes a lot less time to dry than oil paints which dry through a chemical reaction

bonding films together. The results found in this experiment were the expected outcomes of the

experiment.


(CH) CHEMISTRY

7 CH 401

Frank, Daniel

Kenmore

Testing the Mpemba Effect

Abstract:

My experiment was designed to replicate the Mpemba Effect. The Mpemba Effect is a

phenomenon in which hot water can freeze faster than cold water. While the Mpemba Effect has

never been fully explained, several explanations have been proposed, including evaporation,

convection, and the behavior of hydrogen bonds in water. In this experiment, 50 mL of distilled

water was placed in a covered beaker, heated to a specific temperature, and placed in a

standard freezer. The temperature of the water was checked at intervals until the water sample

read 0°C. This procedure was conducted for 10°C, 30°C, 50°C, 70°C, and 90°C. The 10°C

water reached 0°C the fastest, the 30°C reached 0°C the slowest (by a large margin), and the

50°C, 70°C, and 90°C reached 0°C in the same amount of time. Also, ice was observed in the

50°C, 70°C, and 90°C samples. The results of this experiment partially support the hypothesis.

The 90°C water sample reached 0°C faster than the 30°C water, but not faster than the 10°C

water sample. This also occurred with the 50°C and 70°C samples. This shows that hot water

can reach 0°C faster than cold water, but not always. There were interesting patterns in the rate

of cooling of the samples, which could validate two of the offered explanations- convection and

the hydrogen bond explanation. To better test the Mpemba Effect, it would be best to have more

temperature samples and a freezer that did not need to be opened.


(CH) CHEMISTRY

7 CH 402

Fried, Olivia

Jefferson

The Dangers of Painting

Abstract:

This experiment was performed to see which brand of paint had the the most volatile organic

compounds (VOCs). VOCs can be very harmful if exposed to in high concentrations. They are

not easily detectable; many people are exposed to VOCs in their own homes without knowing.

This experiment will inform consumers on which interior paint will be the safest to use.

Three different brands of paint were tested: Behr™; Glidden™; and Sherwin Williams™. In the

experiment the three brands of interior paint were painted onto a block of wood. All the pieces of

wood that were used were the same size. Once the block was painted, it was put into the

container connected to the Photoionization Detector (PID); the highest level of VOCs was

recorded within the time. As the results showed, Behr™ had the highest level of VOCs with an

average of 14.96 ppm. Glidden™ had the second highest level with an average of 3.86 ppm.

Sherwin Williams™ had the lowest level with an average of 1.65 ppm.


(CH) CHEMISTRY

7 CH 403

Gascon, Neil

Hammond

What Makes Ice Melt Faster?

Abstract:

This experiment scientifically is important in the winter, commonly the months of January and

February, with the chance of snow occurring in these months (example; city of NYC). These

chunks of snow can cause problems with delaying travel, and providing long hours of traffic.

This research is important for experiments like mine as it is beneficial and important to have the

right scientific information or the correct facts of anything to solve thought-provoking

questions.The research helps to give the best educated guess a person can make, meaning a

hypothesis, so the research helps to make that guess and educated one. My research question

was to determine which added material will make ice melt fastest, salt, sugar, and sand, or if

they could slow down the melting. My hypothesis (this was before any research was done) was

that sugar would melt the ice cubes in the bowls the fastest. The procedures mainly is putting

three ice cubes each into four different bowls, then three out of the four bowls will be sprinkled

with either sand, salt, or sugar. The bowls will be taken out for measurements, preferably using

a table to record the information, when one of the ice in the bowls becomes half melted. The

information will record the percentage of ice melted. The results will also record the amount of

ice that remained and the total amount; there are also no safety risks that can occur unless the

person possibly has an allergy to the substances used.


(CH) CHEMISTRY

7 CH 404

Parekh, Varun

Hammond

What Flammable Liquid Acts as the Best Propellant for Bottle Rocket?

Abstract:

I always wanted to know what propellant is best for a bottle rocket. So I decided to test different

flammable liquids of its volatility to find the the best propellant for bottle rockets.

For my experiment, I took 5 common flammable and combustible liquids. Liquids that have flash

point below 100 ℉ are considered flammable and those with flash points above 100 ℉ are

considered combustible. A flash point is the boiling point at which a flammable or combustible

liquid changes to vapor. Since it was not possible to measure how high the rocket goes, instead

I measured the distance traveled horizontally. I performed the experiment at a nearby park.

For the experiment, I built the bottle launcher. Next, I poured the test propellant in the bottle,

shook it and poured it all out, leaving the propellant vapor inside. Then I placed the bottle rocket

on the launcher and pressed ignition. Propellant vapor inside the bottle which was volatile,

ignited to create the pressure for the bottle to launch. I measured the distance the bottle

traveled from the launcher, and repeated the steps 5 times for each propellant.

The bottle with gasoline traveled a distance of 35 feet from the launcher, with rubbing alcohol it

went 31 feet and with nail paint remover it went 25 feet. The kerosene and Goof Off didn’t

launch as both are combustible.

To conclude, my hypothesis was correct that the gasoline will act as the best propellant for

bottle rockets.


(CH) CHEMISTRY

7 CH 405

Shumsky, Hannah

Swanson

Its all about the base

Abstract:

The purpose of the experiment was to determine the effect of which fruit or vegetable used to

make pH paper will cause the paper to be the most vibrant when tested. The independent

variable was the fruit or vegetable used to make pH paper, and the dependent variable was the

vibrance of that paper when tested. Homemade test strips were created by making a mixture

out of each fruit or vegetable and dipping coffee filters into it. The investigator used a variety of

liquids, all with different pH levels, such as vinegar (acidic), baking soda dissolved in water

(basic), and milk (neutral). The strips were tested and shortly afterwards judged on a five-point

rating scale, leaving little time to dry, be exposed to other chemicals, or lose color. The

investigator thought that if cabbage was used to make pH paper, then the paper would be, on

average, the most vibrant. The hypothesis was not supported. Cranberry performed the best

with an average vibrance of 2 ⅔, grape performed the worst with an average of 1, and cabbage

was in the middle with an average of 2. This may have been because cranberries have more

anthocyanin than the cabbage or grape causing more of the anthocyanin to react. This in turn

made cranberry paper the most vibrant.


(CH) CHEMISTRY

7 CH 406

Westfall, Caroline

Gunston

The Effect of Different Surfaces on Baking Cookies

Abstract:

Tired of scrubbing difficult residue off the pan after baking cookies? Want to make your cleaning

more efficient and make it easier to remove cookies from the pan? Well this experiment was

chosen to test what baking surface will prevent residue best after baking cookies. The surfaces

used for this experiment were an aluminum pan, a Teflon pan, a silicone mat, and parchment

paper. Three cookies were placed on each surface and baked for the same amount of time.

After the cookies were baked, the thickest part of the residue/grease spot was measured. The

hypothesis for this experiment was if silicone is used, then it will prevent residue best. The

results for this experiment did not support the hypothesis. The aluminum pan prevented residue

best with an average of 4.2cm, rather than the silicon mat. The silicone mat prevented residue

least with an average of 2.8cm. Parchment paper and Teflon tied at an average of 3.8cm.

Although the hypothesis was not supported the objectives for this experiment were met, and the

best surface to prevent residue was found. This experiment will provide a resource to help make

your baking and cleaning decision easier.


(CH) CHEMISTRY

7 CH 407

Williams, Fiona

Jefferson

What is the effect of temperature on the nutritional value of eggs?

Abstract:

The purpose of this project was to test how temperature affects the nutritional presents of eggs.

The hypothesis for this experiment was, if the temperature of eggs at room temperature is

raised to 220 degrees Fahrenheit, then the nutritional presents in the eggs will decrease,

because when eggs are baked for approximately 40 minutes, they lose about 41% of their

former nutritional presents. During the experiment, the temperature was raised for 9 eggs by

100 degrees, 160 degrees, and 220 degrees. The three nutrients used to test the nutritional

value of the eggs were lipids, glucose, and starch. To test the presents of the nutrients in the

eggs, three different solutions were placed in three different test tubes. One egg at a time was

placed in a muffin tin for three minutes. Then they were removed from the oven and 30

millimeters were taken from the egg, and evenly divided into the three test tubes. The scientist

used a chemical scale that explained the significance of the colors of the mixtures identifying the

different nutritional values. This project proved that increased temperature decreased the

nutritional value of glucose in eggs, but increased temperature does not affect the presence of

lipids and starch in an egg.


(CH) CHEMISTRY

7 CH 408

Rozen, Stephen

Bauer, Evan

Swanson

Graffiti removal

Abstract:

The independent variable was the type of removal substance, and the dependent variables

were the speed of removal and amount of liquid required for it. The hypothesis was if rubbing

alcohol is used, then graffiti will be removed quickest while using the least amount of solvent. To

carry out the experiment, the metal was first sprayed with spray paint and left to dry, then

solvents were applied to a cloth which was used to remove the paint, adding liquid as needed.

The removal speed was timed and liquid consumption was measured. “Goof Off” (a graffiti

removal product), worked best to remove spray paint, using significantly less time and liquid

than the other substances we used. Taking significantly more time and liquid were rubbing

alcohol and Palmolive oxy degreaser. Finally water yielded no results, regardless of how much

we used. These results likely occurred because Goof Off is sold as a graffiti removal product

meaning that it is tailored to do exactly this task. The oxy degreaser and rubbing alcohol are not

meant to remove graffiti but contain cleaning properties and certain chemicals akin to those of

the goof off. Water contains no acidity or chemicals giving it no removal power. To improve our

experiment the scrubbing force could’ve been measured to ensure accuracy. The experiment

could’ve also been attempted on more surfaces and using a wider range of solvents. We it's

learned difficult to remove spray paint if not using proper resources.


(CH) CHEMISTRY

8 CH 409

Brill, Rachel

Gunston

Counting Calories: The Amount of Energy in Different Foods

Abstract:

Calories are a necessity to everyone. It is important to have an awareness of the number of

calories you intake to maintain a healthy weight. The purpose of this experiment is to compare

the number of calories of natural food to the number of calories in processed food. The

hypothesis for this experiment was that compared to a natural snack, nuts, various processed

foods had more calories. The experiment consisted of building a homemade calorimeter, a

device used to measure the calories (energy) from burning food. The food was burned,

weighed before and after, and the temperature of the water was measured before and after the

burning. The changes in weight and temperature were used to determine the number of calories

per gram of that food item.

The results showed that the nut actually had more calories per gram than the processed foods.

The data showed that on average, the pecan had 3.65 calories per gram, the goldfish had 1.39

calories per gram, the potato chip had 1.7 calories per gram, the crystallized ginger had 0.9

calories per gram, and the marshmallow had 1.22 calories per gram. These results indicate that

processed foods, which often have less nutritional value, also tend to have fewer calories than a

natural snack like nuts.


(CH) CHEMISTRY

8 CH 410

Buzby, Grace

Kenmore

PH Change In Dog Park Water

Abstract:

Is dog park water really that clean? Have you always wondered what your dog is drinking? Well

me too! My project is finding out the PH level of dog park water, after a dog drinks out of the

bowl. My hypothesis is that after one dog drinks, the PH level would go down and after the next

dog the PH level would keep going down. I thought the PH level would keep getting smaller, and

more acidic.I took a normal PH test of tap water and that turned out to be a PH of seven. My

results found that the PH level stayed mostly the same and nothing changed dramatically. As a

conclusion I found that a dog’s saliva doesn't affect the PH level of dog park water.


(CH) CHEMISTRY

8 CH 411

Chalfont, Luke

Swanson

What is the most effective ice preventative?

Abstract:

I decided to do this experiment because I wanted to figure out the fastest way to melt ice, so if

there is another blizzard I can efficiently melt the ice that will form on my drive way. To complete

this experiment I melted ice with 10 ML of three different preventatives, salt, sand, and deicer.

All of these are used on roads to counter ice. I predicted that the salt would be the most

effective product to use. My hypothesis was supported because the salt melted the ice

significantly faster than the other variables. The liquid deicer was the second fastest, the control

was the third fastest, and surprisingly the sand was the slowest. If I wanted to melt ice to 50%

the liquid deicer would be the most effective, the salt would be the second fastest, the sand was

the third fastest, and unsurprisingly the control was the slowest.


(CH) CHEMISTRY

8 CH 412

Cooper, Reina

Kenmore

The Effect of Different Piping Materials on Daphnia magna

Abstract:

The experiment was conducted to test which piping material killed the most Daphnia magna.

The purpose was to see which piping material (copper, PEX, or CPVC) had the greatest effect

on the daphnia, symbolizing the effects different piping materials can have on water and the

water toxicity. The hypothesis was that copper would have the least amount of Daphnia magna

dead. The Daphnia were placed into glass jars with different piping materials. Every 24 hours for

four days the amount of Daphnia magna dead was recorded. All of the Daphnia in the copper

jars were dead by the first 24 hours. Because of this, additional testing was done and the pH

was tested of each jar. The water in the copper jars were more acidic. The amount of Daphnia

dead in the CPVC and PEX jars was too close to the average of the control to make to

determine accurate conclusions. The hypothesis was rejected.


(CH) CHEMISTRY

8 CH 413

Hill, Rosemary

Jefferson

Does Temperature affect the Acidity of Orange Jouce

Abstract:

The pH scale is used to test acidity. A 7 on the pH scale is neutral, below that is acidic, and

above that is basic. The body functions best at a pH of about 7.4, but if the body’s pH is too

acidic, it can lead to many bad outcomes like cancer and diabetes. Orange juice has an average

pH of 3.5 but it can vary. It was observed that lower temperatures raise the pH of orange juice

and vise versa. The purpose of this experiment was to investigate the acidity of orange juice at

different temperatures and it was hypothesized that temperature will have an effect. In this

experiment the acidity of orange juice was tested at 3 different temperatures, 1 degrees F in the

freezer, 39 degrees F in the refrigerator, and 71 degrees on the kitchen counter. For each of

these levels there were 4 trial. Four fluid ounces of orange juice were measured out into 4

plastic containers and then put either in the freezer, refrigerator, or on the kitchen counter. After

an hour, the orange juice was taken out and tested with pH paper. The average pH of the

orange juice in the freezer and refrigerator was the same which was 4.5. The average pH of

orange juice on the kitchen counter was a 4.2. From the results it is shown that the pH did

change so the hypothesis was accepted.


(CH) CHEMISTRY

8 CH 414

Islam, Akila

H-B Woodlawn

Recharge!

Abstract:

Electrolytes are crucial to the survival and well being of human beings. For that reason

replenishing the amounts of electrolytes in one’s body is important. Electrolytes are replenished

through the foods and liquids that are consumed. In this experiment Tropicana orange juice,

Gatorade, Powerade, and Pedialyte were compared against distilled water, which has very little

amounts of electrolytes, to find the drink with the highest amount of electrolytes.

I hypothesized that orange juice would contain the highest amount of the electrolytes, this was

formulated with results from previous studies which have shown that orange juice, when

compared against fruit juices, contains the greatest amount, as well that when we fall ill we are

recommended to drink plenty of orange juice.

Electrolytes are charged ions that when dissolved, create solutions that can conduct electricity.

Conductivity is proportional to the concentration of electrolytes, which is found by dividing the

measurement of current (amps) by the voltage. To find the current, the liquid with the assistance

of a conductance sensor, and a nine volt battery was used to make a circuit, and the current

was measured with a multimeter.

The results of this study show that the hypothesis was correct, orange juice contained the

highest amount of electrolytes with 140.8 microsiemens. The data collected from this study will

allow consumers to be aware of what they consume, and from this the average person will gain

knowledge about which drinks contain the greatest amounts so replenishing will be quicker and

more efficient.


(CH) CHEMISTRY

8 CH 415

Lanman, Katheryn

Jefferson

Skin Deep

Abstract:

Tattoos are something that has been around for centuries. Today, people are obsessed with

inking their skin, whether it be sticking needles in their body or just marking on it with pen.

However, there is a common myth that if you do as much as write on your skin, you are at risk

of ink poisoning. This experiment was designed to test the effect of different brands of pens and

markers, on how deep the ink would absorb into pig skin. The hypothesis was made that if

different brands of ink were used to mark on pig skin, then the Sharpie pen ink would sink the

farthest. The four different brands used were Sharpie, Paper Mate, BIC, and Crayola. Also

needed for the tests was pig skin. Squares of pig skin were cut, and then marked on with each

brand of pen. Later, after fifteen minutes, each square was cut in half and the results were

collected by measuring with a ruler. When the results were measured the Sharpie marker had

the highest penetration on average. It is to be noted that the BIC pens did not leave any mark

on the skin, so the results of those trials are invalid. Not counting the BIC pens, the Paper Mate

pens’ ink was absorbed the least. Because the Sharpie ended up with the highest results, it can

be concluded that the Sharpie ink sunk the farthest into the pig skin. Therefore, the hypothesis

was accepted.


(CH) CHEMISTRY

8 CH 416

Lin, Ju

Jefferson

The Vitamin C in Fruits & Vegetables

Abstract:

The purpose of this experiment was to test the effects of different fruits and vegetables on the

milligram of vitamin C each fruit or vegetable contains. Vitamin C is the ascorbic acid in foods

that help protect cells from damage, which is caused by free radicals, compounds that is formed

when the body converts the food everyone eats into energy. It was hypothesized that red

peppers would have the highest milligram of vitamin C. To do this experiment, the experimenter

has to find the average milliliter of iodine titration solution to titrate 20 milliliters of vitamin C

standard solution and the milliliter of iodine titration solution to titrate 20 milliliters of fruit or

vegetable juice. After all the fruit and vegetable juices are titrated, the experimenter has to solve

a proportion to find the milligram of vitamin C of each fruit or vegetable by plugging the average

milliliter of iodine titration to titrate the vitamin C standard solution over 20 milligrams of vitamin

C standard solution that is equivalent to the milliliter of iodine titration solution to titrate the juice

sample over the milligram of vitamin C. For the result, the range of milligram of vitamin C for

most fruits and vegetables were apart by about 1.5 milligrams, but some fruits and vegetables

range are 0 milligram, and there was one vegetable with the range of 0.64 milligram. The

hypothesis that red peppers would have the highest milligram of vitamin C was accepted.


(CH) CHEMISTRY

8 CH 417

McBride, Alana

Kenmore

The Effect of Magnetic Strength on Oil Extraction using Nanoparticles

Abstract:

It was hypothesized for this experiment that the stronger the pull of the magnet, the more

nanoparticles and more oil it would extract from the water. The control for the experiment was

the neodymium magnet at room temperature (22.0°C) -- the temperature of the magnets

normally observed. The independent variable and levels of the independent variable were the

temperature to which the magnets were subjected: the magnet was placed in dry ice (-78.5°C).

The dependent variable was the amount of oil and nanoparticles extracted from the water. The

constants in the experiment were the ruler, magnetic compass, the table surface, the location,

the placement of the magnet for sixty seconds in each trial, and the air temperature surrounding

the ruler and magnet. As well as the amount of oil, water, and nanoparticles in each Petri dish,

as well as the graduated cylinder. The hypothesis was accepted. More oil was extracted when

the magnet had greater strength.


(CH) CHEMISTRY

8 CH 418

McGwier, Lynn

Kenmore

The effect of different developing agents on the color contrast of black and

white photography

Abstract:

The purpose of the experiment was to see which fuel or fuel combination would produce the

longest run time. The hypothesis was that the fuel or fuel combination with the highest energy

density would be the fuel that would produce the longest run time. The fuel combination that

was hypothesized was half kerosene and half gasoline. The different fuels or fuel combinations

were tested in a four cycle generator engine. The runtimes were recorded and the data was

analyzed. The results showed that, the 30 percent kerosene and 70 percent gasoline

combination produced the longest runtime. The hypothesis was rejected.


(CH) CHEMISTRY

8 CH 419

McHugh, Ella

H-B Woodlawn

The Effect of Vegetable Pigment on Vitamin C Content

Abstract:

The purpose of this experiment was to find the effect of a vegetable’s color on the amount of

Vitamin C it contains. Determining which color vegetables have the most Vitamin C is

important, because this vitamin provides so many health benefits. This experiment looked at the

Vitamin C content of a green vegetable, kale; a red vegetable, tomato; and an orange

vegetable, pumpkin. The hypothesis for this experiment was that kale will have the most Vitamin

C, because it has a dark green pigment and it is also known to be very nutritious. In order to test

this hypothesis, small samples of tomato, kale, and pumpkin were put onto a spot plate along

with two drops of starch. Then iodine was added to each sample until its color changed to a

dark purple. Vegetables with a higher Vitamin C content required more drops of iodine for a

change in color. On average, the kale and tomato required 1.75 drops of iodine to turn purple

and the pumpkin required 2.5 drops. The experiment showed that pumpkin had the highest

Vitamin C content. This result did not support the hypothesis.


(CH) CHEMISTRY

8 CH 420

Meek, Melena

Jefferson

Vitamin C in Drinks

Abstract:

The purpose of the experiment was to determine the effect of the type of liquid on how much

iodine-water solution was needed to titrate the set amount of said liquid, which indirectly

measured the vitamin C content. This experiment was chosen because of a thought on whether

orange juice really is the best source of vitamin C. In this experiment, the independent variable

was the type of juice; lemon juice, lime juice, orange juice, and vitamin C standardized solution.

The dependent variable was how much of the drink was necessary to drink to get the daily value

of vitamin C, measured in mL. There was no control.


(CH) CHEMISTRY

8 CH 421

Meng, Lily

Jefferson

Bubbly Drinks

Abstract:

Each brand of soda has different amounts of phosphoric acid in it. It was researched that Coca-

Cola had a pH of 2.37, Pepsi’s was 2.39, and Dr. Pepper had a pH of 2.88. Soda companies

use phosphoric acid, to give it that acidic taste and it's also known to remove rust. The purpose

of this experiment was to study the effect of different brands of soda, on the amount of rust on

the nail. In this experiment, 15 nails were used to see how much rust formed when it was placed

in a cup with soda in it. They were kept in there, for three weeks to see if any rust formed. The

hypothesis was Coca-Cola would cause the least amount of rust, since it had the lowest pH

meaning it could have more phosphoric acid in it. At the end of the experiment, Coca-Cola and

Pepsi had a median of .5, while Dr. Pepper had a median of 1. Also, when conducting the

experiment, the color of the nails got darker if the brand of soda had less phosphoric acid in it.

In this experiment, the hypothesis was accepted since Coca-Cola did indeed have the least

amount of rust on the nail. If this experiment were to be done again, the brands of soda would

be changed like using sprite, and the amount of time the nail would be kept inside the cup

seeing if these changes would affect the amount of rust being formed.


(CH) CHEMISTRY

8 CH 422

Rahman, Mahia

Kenmore

The effect of different water purification methods on pH

Abstract:

The project studies the effect of different water purification methods on pH. Water purification is

the process by which undesired materials and contaminants are removed from water. Three

different water purification methods used were filtration, distillation, and solar disinfection

(SODIS). pH is a figure expressing the acidity or alkalinity of a solution. The hypothesis was

that if the method of filtering is used to purify water, the pH level will become more neutral

compared to the other methods. For the method of filtration, stream water was put into a filter

that contained porous media and the water was purified as it moved through the filter. For the

method of distillation, stream water was put into a pot with a glass bowl on top of a plastic bowl

while it was heating. The lid of the pot was put upside down and ice was put on top of the lid.

For the method of SODIS stream water was put into fifteen PET water bottles and holes were

poked through the bottle caps so that thermometers could go through them. They were left

outside for about eight hours. The difference in pH was tested after experimentation was

completed. The pH was collected with litmus paper after every experiment and each method

was repeated fifteen times. The SODIS method made the pH more neutral compared to the

other methods. The hypothesis was rejected.


(CH) CHEMISTRY

8 CH 423

Sedehi, Miranda

Hammond

Liar, Liar Pants on Fire

Abstract:

The purpose of this experiment was to test the flammability of different fabrics, to determine

which fabric was the most and least flame resistant. Fire is “the phenomenon of combustion

manifested in light, flame, and heat.” I chose this topic to help increase the safety of those in a

fire. For this project I hypothesized that the thinner the material the more flammable it would be,

which led me to predict silk would burn the quickest. To test my hypothesis I held five different

fabrics over an open flame and recorded the time it took for each fabric to completely burn. In

order to account for any inconsistencies I tested each fabric three times.The results to my

experiment were as expected. The silk burned the quickest and the wool the longest. My

hypothesis had been partially correct. The silk did burn the quickest, partially because of its

thickness, but that is not the only reason. A fabrics flammability is based off of its molecular

structure, and its surface’s weave, thickness, and roughness. My project merely tested how long

it takes for something to burn, but a future application of this project would include testing to see

how much energy is required for different fabrics to sustain fire.


(CH) CHEMISTRY

8 CH 424

Brodsky, Sofia

Peddie, Ella

Swanson

The Candle Experiment

Abstract:

This experiment was conducted in order to find out if the color of a candle affects how long it

lasts. Four different colors of candles were used. The first independent variable, the constant,

was white and there were also green, red and orange candles. First 4 candles (one of each

color) were measured, in height and mass, and placed on plates. Then the candles were lit and

as soon as they were lit, a timer was set for five minutes. After five minutes the candles were

tipped upside down, in order to let all of the melted wax drip out, and then the height and the

mass were measured again. Then the difference between before and after the candles were

burnt was recorded on the data table. These steps were then repeated nine more times to

complete all ten trials. In the end the data showed that the hypothesis was not supported. The

hypothesis was “If we change the color of the candle, then the white candles will have the

greatest decrease in mass and height between before burning and after burning, because the

white candles have less substance to them.” The results showed that the orange candles had

the greatest difference in height and the red candles had the greatest decrease in mass.


(CH) CHEMISTRY

8 CH 425

Khalil, Nawal

Achugamonu, Stephanie

Gunston

The Effect of Different Temperatures on the Diameter of Cookies

Abstract:

Ever wonder how to make the biggest cookies? This experiment was chosen to see if

temperature affected the overall size of a cookie. The purpose of this investigation was to

determine which degree of heat in Fahrenheit will make the diameter of cookies increase. In this

experiment, 5 trays each holding three cookies, were baked at different temperatures in three

separate ovens. The ovens were preheated to temperatures from 300 degrees to 400 degrees

in increments of 25. It was baked for 12 minutes then cooled down. The diameter of each cookie

(dependent variable) was measured with the same ruler. This experiment resulted in an

unexpected outcome. The results did not support the hypothesis because the hypothesis for this

experiment was that at 400 degrees, the diameter of the cookies would expand the most. The

data, however, showed the opposite. The cookies baked at 400 degrees Fahrenheit were on

average the smallest in diameter with a shocking 5 cm while the cookies baked at 300 degrees

Fahrenheit were on average the largest in diameter with 6.5 cm. These trials were targeted to

bakers. Now people can’t assume that the higher the temperature the bigger the cookie.


(CH) CHEMISTRY

8 CH 426

Marston, Katherine

Rosman, Emma

Swanson

The effect of type of liquid on voltage

Abstract:

In this experiment the effect of type of liquid on voltage was tested. The hypothesis was that if

the type of liquid was changed then the electrolyte water would have the highest voltage

because the electrolytes are specifically added as a selling point for athletes. A circuit was set

up with zinc and copper electrodes connected to a multimeter and 20 trials were performed for

each liquid (tap water, electrolyte water, Glacier Cherry and Orange Gatorade and orange

juice). The pH of each liquid was also tested. The hypothesis was not supported by the data as

the orange juice had the highest mean of voltage and the most acidic pH level and the tap water

had the the lowest mean and purest pH level. It was shown that the pH of the liquid directly

correlated with the voltage of the liquid where the more acidic or basic, the higher the voltage.

This experiment was performed and investigated with the goal of discovering if all of the sugar

and chemicals in sports drinks are worth the electrolytes, or if just drinking water is enough to

replenish after sweating. It is hoped that this information would be helpful for future investigation

into how electrolytes are related to voltage and their benefits for humans.


(CH) CHEMISTRY

8 CH 427

Simmons, Rachel

Waller, Maeve

George Washington

The Effect of Sodium Citrate on the Diameter of Calcium Alginate Shperes

Abstract:

When most people get a small cut on their skin it bleeds for a while, and then stops bleeding.

The entire process in which the bleeding stops is called hemostasis. An essential part of

hemostasis is coagulation of the blood. When a liquid, like blood, turns into a solid or semisolid

substance, the process is called coagulation. For blood, this process is specifically called blood

clotting. There are such prescribed drugs, called anticoagulants, that cause blood to not clot.

There are also anticoagulants that are found in nature, like in leeches. Some people also have a

blood disorder where they have natural anticoagulants in their blood. This can be very

dangerous, as the person could lose too much blood. The process of coagulation is very

important to life.


(CH) CHEMISTRY

8 CH 428

Youkeles, Samuel

O’Brien, Michael

Swanson

Flaming Firewood! Does Wood's Density Affect the Heat it Produces and its

Burn Time?

Abstract:

In this experiment, the independent variable was the density of the wood used (cedar, pine,

poplar, and oak wood, in order from least to greatest density). The dependent variables were

the amount of heat produced and the wood’s burn time. The hypothesis was that the oak wood

would produce the most heat and have the longest burn time, because oak had the highest

density, meaning it had the highest energy content. The procedures for this experiment included

setting fire to three pieces of kerosene-dipped wood under a pot of water. To measure the heat

produced, the temperature of the water was taken every 30 seconds. To measure the burn time,

a stopwatch was started when the wood caught on fire, and stopped when the fire went out. The

results of the experiment were that the wood with the second greatest density (poplar) produced

the most heat and had the greatest burn time, while the wood with the second least density

(pine) did the opposite. The hypothesis was proven wrong, and these results could have been

caused by oak wood being too dense for the chemical reaction to occur, while poplar had a

lower density, and enough chemical reaction space. An improvement for this experiment would

be to test everything in one day, so the initial water temperatures would not change due to

outside temperatures. Something learned from this experiment was that although oak is the

preferred firewood, it is not the most efficient in starting and maintaining a fire.


(CH) CHEMISTRY

9 CH 429

Bermudez, Kai

Yorktown

The Effect of Temperature of Vinegar When Mixed With Sodium

Bicarbonate on the Height a Rocket Travels

Abstract:

The purpose of this experiment is to improve school lessons which use acetic acids and sodium

bicarbonate, by having better visuals of how atoms form sodium acetate, water, and CO2. The

results of the experiment can be useful in classrooms, when teachers need a better visual to

show an example of an acid-base reaction. Additionally, this experiment will show which

temperature of vinegar will produce CO2 the fastest, and propel the rocket the highest.

Preceding the experiment, materials were collected, and the launch site was set up. First, the

vinegar was chilled to 10℃, and the baking soda was placed in the rocket. A camera was set up

away from the test site, and the vinegar was placed into the rocket. The rocket launched, and

the height was recorded. This was repeated 3 more times with 10℃ vinegar, and then repeated

4 times each with 21, 60, and 100℃ vinegar. Data revealed that the rockets which had 100℃

vinegar were able to travel the highest in the air. An ANOVA and a post-hoc test was

completed. The ANOVA test revealed the P-value of the experiment was <.0001, and the null

hypothesis was rejected. The post-hoc test showed the data was significant. The overall trend of

the data was as temperature of vinegar increased, height the rocket reached also increased.

Improvements to the experiment consist of more trials, and to change the test site so it is closer

to the stove. These improvements would have made the experiment’s results more accurate.


(CH) CHEMISTRY

9 CH 430

Butler-Christodoulou, Athena

Wakefield

The Effect of the Filter on the Concentration of Nitrate, an Environmental

Toxin

Abstract:

Nitrogen is an essential element for all living things. In its final oxidized form, nitrate, it is an

environmental toxin. Nitrates are naturally found in animal urine. Nitrates provide nutrients for

plants, but pollute the ecosystem when they reach groundwater. When nitrate-polluted runoff

reaches lakes or ponds, algae grow excessively, and deplete underwater ecosystems of oxygen

and sunlight. This project studied different materials as filters for removal of nitrates. A nitrate

solution, concentration of 1mg/mL was used. This concentration was one hundred-fold of the

acceptable EPA limit of nitrates in water. Silica, alumina, starch, acrylic acid polymer powder,

and charcoal slurries were packed into Büchner funnels using a vacuum hand pump. Next, the

filtration of distilled water (control) and the nitrate solution was carried out sequentially. The

conductivity of the water and nitrate solution was measured with a Vernier conductivity probe

before and after filtration. Conductivity is directly proportional to concentration of ions. This

measurement showed how many ions were removed by the filter or passed through. For each

variable (filter), 10 trials were conducted. It was hypothesized that acrylic acid polymer powder

would be the most effective filter for nitrates. The polymer powder absorbed any liquid that it

came in contact with, therefore no conductivity measurement was possible. Silica was the most

effective filter because the nitrate filtrate had the lowest conductivity. The hypothesis was

supported because acrylic acid polymer powder and silica were both effective in different ways.


(CH) CHEMISTRY

9 CH 431

Cohen-Suarez, Camila

T.C. Williams

Nowhere To Go: The Case of Stormwater Runoff

Abstract:

The purpose of this experiment was to determine more efficient methods to prevent stormwater

runoff than what is presently used. Stormwater runoff is the result of rainfall or snowmelt that

runs off of impervious surfaces such as concrete or asphalt. The runoff collects debris,

chemicals, sediment, and other pollutants that eventually make their way to bodies of water

such as rivers and streams. The hypothesis for the project is: if grass is planted along with other

materials in the soil, then the amount of soil collected in the stormwater runoff will decrease.

The experiment tested the efficiency and ability of different materials to decrease the effects of

stormwater runoff on the soil. The tests were conducted by placing three different materials:

grass, cork and gravel, in a container of soil, including a separate control, at a slanted height in

order to simulate a hill that would show their ability to prevent stormwater runoff. Throughout the

test, the control and cork containers had a lesser effect of decreasing the effects of stormwater

runoff while the grass and gravel had more of an effect. The hypothesis was correct since the

grass was able to decrease a significant amount of soil in the stormwater runoff.


(CH) CHEMISTRY

9 CH 432

Ernst, Olivia

T.C. Williams

Reversing Climate Change: Does Limestone Work?

Abstract:

The purpose of the project was to see if limestone removes carbon dioxide from ocean water.

The reason for doing this project is to possibly reverse the effects of global warming on the

oceans. I put three different amounts of limestone into cups filled with ocean water. I then used

a carbon dioxide test kit to test the water after the limestone was mixed in with the water in the

cup. The increased levels of limestone did help extract the carbon dioxide from the water. This

supports my hypothesis because the majority of trials took carbon dioxide out of the water.


(CH) CHEMISTRY

9 CH 433

Horner, Jessica

Yorktown

The Effect of Amount of Magnesium on Hydrogen Gas Production

Abstract:

Different amounts of magnesium were combined with a constant amount of hydrochloric acid to

see which quantity produced the most hydrogen gas. The results from this experiment could be

applied to the acidizing of oil wells. Finding the stoichiometric quantity of the hydrochloric acid

for each rock formation would prevent the acid from being wasted. First quantities of

magnesium and hydrochloric acid were measured. An eudiometer filled with water was inverted

into a water tub, and a tube connected to an Erlenmeyer flask was placed inside the

eudiometer. The magnesium and hydrochloric acid were poured into the Erlenmeyer flask. The

flask was immediately capped to make sure no hydrogen gas would escape. The amount of

water displaced was measured when the reaction stopped. Quantitative data was collected for

each independent variable level. An ANOVA and post-hoc statistical test was done after all data

had been gathered. The null hypothesis was rejected because the p value was less than 0.05

and showed significance. The post-hoc test showed that there was significance between all of

the groups except the two largest quantities. There was no significance between these groups

because the reaction had hit the stoichiometric quantity of magnesium for the constant amount

of hydrochloric acid. To improve this experiment the tube connecting the Erlenmeyer flask and

eudiometer should be made shorter. The tube was very long, which made it easy for molecules

to build up and block the hydrogen gas from entering the eudiometer.


(CH) CHEMISTRY

9 CH 434

Kopasz-Gemmen, Olivia

Yorktown

The Effect Of Whitening Toothpaste on Coffee Stained Teeth

Abstract:

This project tests which whitening toothpaste works best over a period of two weeks.

Teeth weren’t available to use during this experiment, so eggshells were used as an alternative

because of the similarities in coatings of an egg and in teeth. Five eggs were stained in coffee

for four hours. The eggs were were brushed with the toothpaste or with water (the control) for 90

seconds each day for fourteen days. The eggs were scored daily on a scale from one to five

rating how white the eggs were. The scale goes from one, the color of a coffee stained egg, to

five, the color of a perfectly white egg. On day fourteen, the end results were recorded from the

three trials of the experiment from each toothpaste type.

The hypothesis was if a toothpaste has whitening agents present, then it will whiten teeth the

best because according to the American Dental Association whitening agents whiten teeth.

Colgate worked the best. Crest was second best. These two toothpastes contain the highest

amount of whitening agents. Tom’s of Maine and Sensodyne were the third and fourth best

working toothpastes. Both did not contain as high amount of whitening agents as the two most

whitening. Sensodyne toothpastes are meant for sensitive teeth, which is why there were fewer

whitening agents. A Kruskal-Wallis test was conducted, which showed that the null hypothesis

was rejected. There was a p-value of .0096, making the data significant.


(CH) CHEMISTRY

9 CH 435

Pfeifer, Erin

Washington-Lee

Stain Removal. The Science behind it!

Abstract:

This experiment’s purpose was to find out how different chemicals and ingredients in stain

removers would affect a tomato sauce stain. The hypothesis was that Shout Triple Acting stain

remover would be the most successful in removing a stain. This hypothesis was formulated

based on the fact that Shout Triple Acting stain remover has three surfactants including

ethoxylated alcohol which is considered an active ingredient. Through my research I have

learned that surfactants are the key to removing stains with lipids like oils and fats which tomato

sauce contains. The experiment simulated what actually happens when you spill tomato sauce

on a white cotton T-shirt. Tomato sauce was poured on a T-shirt, then it was wiped off with a

paper towel, sprayed with stain remover and washed in the washing machine.

As a result of the experiment, Shout triple acting stain remover and OxiClean Max Force

removed all of the stains completely. That said, Seventh Generation Laundry Stain Remover a

plant derived cleaner worked well and removed most of the stains but not completely.

Alternatively, water and white vinegar were not as successful leaving red stains all over the

shirt. In conclusion, the independent variables with synthetic ingredients worked the best while

the stain remover with plant derived ingredients did not work as well.


(CH) CHEMISTRY

9 CH 436

Phillips, Thomas

Yorktown

The Effect of Temperature on Battery Performance

Abstract:

The purpose of the experiment, “The Effect of Temperature on Battery Performance,” was to

discover how the temperature of a AAA battery would affect its performance. Due to the many

battery types, there is misinformation on how temperature affects batteries. Four artificial

environments were created: -4°C, 10°C, 21°C and 50°C (a freezer, a refrigerator, a normal

room, and a hot lamp, respectively). The control is 21°C, resembling typical room temperature.

Single AAA batteries were placed in each environment for an hour, not serving as a power

source, and measured (“Hour 0”) using a voltage meter. The batteries were placed in flashlights

and measured once every hour for the remaining percentages. Numerical data (percentages)

was collected. ANOVA and linear regression tests were conducted; a scatterplot graph was

created from the final hour of data. A strong trend was found--as the battery temperature

decreased, the final remaining battery temperature also decreased. The majority of the decline

occurred in the first 1-2 hours, later becoming more gradual. The data was significant, with a P-

value of 0.000000430. The slope coefficient was 0.105--the remaining percentage increased by

about 1% for every degree. This trend supported research conducted by Energizer. In cold

weather, the diffusion inside the battery is less efficient due to slower molecular movement.

However, the exact degree of effect may vary. Adding more types of batteries, using other

devices, and including more extreme temperatures could have strengthened the experiment.


(CH) CHEMISTRY

9 CH 437

Splan, Victor

Washington-Lee

Acid rain’s effect on chemical reactions (forming of Iron Oxide) in metal.

Abstract:

This project’s purpose was to show how the acidity of acid rain affects metal. Acid rain is

becoming more common and increasingly acidic. This project varied from other relevant

experiments because it used several mixtures of water and sulfuric acid, a common chemical

found in acid rain.

The pH of each sulfuric acid independent variable group was similar to actual pH measures of

acid rain from several countries. This project investigated how the acidity of the sulfuric acid

mixtures (acid rain models) affects metal. The hypothesis was: if the pH of the sulfuric acid

mixture is lowered, then the temperature of the steel wool submerged in this mixture will

increase, because the decreased acidity will cause a chemical reaction to occur that will

generate heat.

Several safety precautions were taken since sulfuric acid was used. Gloves and goggles were

used and the experiment was done under a teacher’s supervision. The experiment was

conducted by submerging pieces of steel wool in sulfuric acid mixtures of different pH levels and

measuring the increase in temperature of the steel wool. The results showed the steel wool

submerged in the sulfuric acid mixture with a pH of 2, which was the lowest tested, had the

greatest increase in temperature. The data showed the ANOVA test had a p-value of less than

0.05, indicating a statistical difference between the groups. The objectives of the project were

met, and contributed evidence to support that the corrosive properties of acid rain increase with

greater acidity.


(CH) CHEMISTRY

9 CH 438

Pettit, Mara

Stell, Madison

Yorktown

The Effect of Different Additives on the Gas Production of Yeast

Abstract:

This experiment proved the effects of different additives (sugar and salt) on the carbon dioxide

gas produced 7.4 mL of yeast. The purpose of this experiment is to help people who are curious

about how additives will affect the density, or “fluffiness” of their baked good containing yeast.

To test this, an upside down graduated cylinder full of water attached to a beaker containing the

yeast, water, and additives. Connecting rubber tubing allowed the CO2 produced by yeast to be

measured in the graduated cylinder. The quantitative data (gas in mL) collected in this

experiment was a measure of the difference of the initial water level of the graduated cylinder

and the final level of water in the graduated cylinder. The data was put into a ANOVA test to

find the significance. The data was significant because the p value was 0.0001, rejecting the

null hypothesis. The trend is the data collected was the salt had a negative relationship with gas

production, and the sugar had a positive relationship with the gas production. Salt made the

environment too salty and as a result hypertonic to the yeast, causing the yeast to dehydrate

and struggle. Sugar increased the CO2 gas production because it gave the yeast extra energy

and food, allowing the yeast to transpire more and release a larger quantity of CO2 . It could be

expanded by including other additives different than salt and sugar to see the effect that those

have on the CO2 production of yeast.


(CH) CHEMISTRY

9 CH 439

Todd, Lilith

Negash, Ayda

Solokha, Nataliya

T.C. Williams

What Pain Relieving drug is most soluble in water?

Abstract:

This experiment was about seeing how long it took a common pain reliever such as; Aspirin,

Tylenol, and Advil, to dissolve in water. The reason for this experiment was to see which one

helped to deliver a solution for pain, faster. In this experiment, the 3 pain relievers were timed in

3 separate containers filled with water. After 20 minutes of time passed for each one, it was

stirred gently to help move the substance around because the organism with the pain reliever

moves around to and so should pain reliever. As the pain relievers started to dissolve it was

noticed that Tylenol dissolved at a much quicker rate and Advil dissolving at a much slower rate.

At the end of the experiment Tylenol averaged much lower at about an 1hour and 30minutes,

and Advil averaging over 2 hours. Tylenol costs on average $10.57, this price should be

lowered in impoverished countries to help relieve pain faster and have men and women get

back to working, doing what the love, and providing, protecting and enjoying life to the fullest

extent.


(CH) CHEMISTRY

10 CH 440

Campbell, William

Washington-Lee

The Effect of Oxygen Present during Fermentation on Carbon Dioxide

Released

Abstract:

The purpose of this experiment was to see the effect of oxygen present and absent in a specific

solution during fermentation on the carbon dioxide released afterwards. The hypothesis for this

experiment was that if carbon dioxide released is measured from two solutions, one with oxygen

present and one with oxygen absent, during fermentation, then the solution with oxygen absent

will produce a greater amount of carbon dioxide, because when oxygen is present during

fermentation it has been shown to act as a damaging catalyst: speeding up the process at first

but then damaging the overall carbon dioxide released. The results showed that the hypothesis

was supported, for the results were statistically significant not only through the use of a t-test,

but the standard deviations also showed that for both groups they were roughly 7% of the mean

for each group. This shows that the results were overall very precise adding to the belief that the

results were significant. The results also showed that the oxygen present solution acted as it

was believed to, for in the experiment the majority of the carbon dioxide was released in the first

15 minutes of the experiment.

Improvements that could be made for the experiment is the introduction of a controlled

environment to assure that there is not the possibility of the solution being contaminated with

any foreign bodies. For further study a new IV could be introduced by using a different electron

acceptor instead of oxygen for example is tetrachloroethylene.


(CH) CHEMISTRY

10 CH 441

Fugle, Chloe

H-B Woodlawn

The Effect of Iron (III) Oxide on the Amount of Phosphate in Water

Abstract:

While phosphates, common in many detergents and fertilizers, are essential elements for life,

an excess can cause major problems in watersheds. Phosphates are picked up by runoff water

and carried into rivers and lakes, where they can lead to the death of aquatic plants and animals

and health problems for the people who drink the water. This experiment sought to remove

phosphate from water using iron (III) oxide, also known as ferric oxide. Three methods were

tested; mixing the ferric oxide with the water and letting it sit, mixing the ferric oxide without

letting it sit, and pouring the water through ferric oxide. The water was then filtered to remove

the ferric oxide. The mixing and sitting as well as the just mixing methods were successful, and

reduced the phosphate concentration from 2.0 mg/L to an average of 0.0 mg/L. The pouring

method was only partially successful, and reduced the phosphate concentration to an average

of 1.3 mg/L. This research will be useful in creating phosphate-removing filters to combat the

excess phosphate in watersheds.


(CH) CHEMISTRY

10 CH 442

Gerardi, Samuel

Washington-Lee

The Effect of Ratios of Ammonium Nitrate and Calcium Nitrate on

Temperature Decrease in Water

Abstract:

First aid and medical treatment are very important in modern day life. Quick access to medical

care can be very important, which is where instant cold packs are often used. The purpose of

the experiment was to find what combination of Ammonium Nitrate and Calcium Nitrate creates

the lowest temperature when combined with water. The hypothesis was if Ammonium Nitrate

and Calcium Nitrate are added to water in varying ratios, then Ammonium Nitrate will cause the

greatest decrease in temperature. For the experiment, 50 mL of water was placed in 4 different

beakers, and the chemicals were measured by a 100/0, 50/50, and 0/100 ratio out of 4.72 g.

These chemical samples were placed in the the beakers one at a time, and the temperature

was measured before and after 2 minutes. This was performed 10 times per group. 100%

Ammonium Nitrate had an average temperature drop of 11.47 oC, 100% Calcium Nitrate had an

average temperature drop of 5.43 oC, and the 50/50 mix had an average temperature drop of

7.68 oC. An ANOVA test was conducted, and the resulting p-value was ~0.0001%. A T-Test

was conducted between 100% Ammonium Nitrate, and 100% Calcium Nitrate, and the resulting

p-value was ~0.0001%. The hypothesis was accepted. The results of the experiment could be

used in the medical industry when creating new solutions to contain in instant cold packs for

quick relief. Future experimentation could involve exploring the effects of other non-toxic

substances on temperature of water.


(CH) CHEMISTRY

10 CH 443

Gaither, Oliver

Posner, Elias

Wakefield

Comparing The Amount Of Blue Dye #1 in Sports Drinks

Abstract:

Artificial food dyes are added to drinks and foods by manufacturers to make them more

appealing to the consumer, however some people have sensitivity to food dyes, In this project,

Cool Blue Gatorade and Mountain Berry Blast Powerade were analyzed for blue dye #1

content. This was done by using the principle of Beer’s law which states that there is a direct

relationship between the concentration of a substance and the amount of light it absorbs. A

calibration curve was made with known concentrations of blue food dye #1. The amount of blue

dye in the sports drinks was determined by measuring the absorbance and reading off the

concentration on the graph. After 10 trials of both Gatorade and Powerade it was found that

gatorade contained the greatest concentration of blue dye, The concentration of blue dye # 1 in

Gatorade was approximately 0.0135 M; Powerade concentration of blue dye #1 was

approximately 0.0115 M. When compared statistically using an unpaired t- test (at p = 0.05) it

was found that this difference was significant.


(CH) CHEMISTRY

10 CH 444

Garfinkel, Draken

Garfinkel, Jared

Washington-Lee

"Effect of iron concentration in concrete on resistance to sulfuric acid."

Abstract:

For thousands of years concrete, a mixture of water, clay, sand, stone, and lime, has been used

to build roads, bridges, and buildings across the world. However, most concrete doesn’t last for

over forty years, a problem only further exacerbated by the advent of climate change and acid

rain. This experiment, “Effect of iron concentration in concrete on resistance to sulfuric acid”

tested the effectiveness of iron powder as a concrete aggregate in order to increase acid

resistance. Thirty cubes each with iron concentration of a 0% control and 10%, 20%, and 30%

experimental groups were tested in this experiment, the hypothesis being that if the iron

concentration had any effect on the concrete’s acid resistance, the 30% experimental groups

would show the least change in mass.

These 120 concrete cubes were all weighed, then submerged continuously in vats of a sulfuric

acid mixture maintaining the pH 3 for five continuous weeks. After five weeks of submersion, the

cubes were all removed and dried, where they were then weighed again. The data gathered had

rejected the null hypothesis, but had simultaneously not supported the proposed hypothesis: the

30% experimental group showed the greatest average change in mass. This may be because

the iron powder used does not serve well as an aggregate, or oxidation occurred due to the

presence of iron in acid. Further testing is recommended to establish a more substantial

conclusion for this topic.


(CH) CHEMISTRY

10 CH 445

Harris, Luci

Hanley, Sydney

Wakefield

The effect of the amount of gelatin on the melting rate of popsicles

Abstract:

This project was the effect of the quantity of gelatin on the melting rate of popsicles, and the

purpose was to discover with what quantity of gelatin it took more time for a popsicle to melt, as

it could then be enjoyed longer. The hypothesis was that the more gelatin added to the

popsicles, the longer it would take for them to melt. The experiment was conducted by heating

up apple juice, and pouring it into a cup, where it was mixed with a quantity of gelatin (none, 1/8

tsp, 1/4 tsp, 3/8 tsp, and 1/2 tsp). This was repeated 5 times for each quantity of gelatin. The

cups were then placed in the freezer for 14.5 hours, and then removed and put on plates to melt

and timed. The experiment resulted in an average of 2 hours and 49.6 minutes for the

popsicles with no gelatin to melt, with 1/8 teaspoon 2 hours and 52.8 minutes, with 1/4 teaspoon

2 hours and 52.4 minutes, with 3/8 teaspoon 2 hours and 58.8 minutes, and with 1/2 teaspoon 2

hours and 57.4 minutes. Overall, the data followed the hypothesis, however, the amount of

gelatin really didn’t make a huge difference in the amount of time it took to melt, since the

popsicle that lasted the longest only lasted about nine minutes longer than the one with no

gelatin.


(CH) CHEMISTRY

10 CH 446

Lin, Joyce

Lima Claros, Victoria

Washington-Lee

The effect of different types of bananas on sugar content

Abstract:

The purpose of this project was to analyze how long it took for a banana to fully ripe, when the

best time to eat them, and the sugar content during the ripening process.We also want to find

out how the banana itself changes in texture, color, and sweetness. The hypothesis was if red

bananas are extracted and tested in a refractometer then, the sugar content would be higher

because red bananas ripen faster than yellow bananas. Due to the amount of amount of beta

carotene and vitamin c a banana has. The process was, three inches of the bananas were used

by a crush and drip method as well as the refractometer (measuring of the sugar content in the

bananas). The sugar content was measured in percent and was recorded in a chart that allowed

to see the difference in the different bananas in one week.

The observations included low sugar content in the plantains and the red bananas having the

most sugar content, and the similarity of percentage in each banana, excluding the plantains.

The baby bananas and regular bananas had a yellow tone to them and the softness of all the

bananas increased as days go by. The hypothesis was accepted and the results of the sugar

content in the different types of bananas matched the hypothesis. Improvements for the future

include a longer period of time for testing and having multiple test tubes for each banana as

using one test tube can lead to experimental error.


(CH) CHEMISTRY

10 CH 447

Matuli, Victoria

Scott, Alyssa

Wakefield

The Mpemba Effect

Abstract:

The purpose of this experiment is to investigate what freezes fastest hot,warm, or cold water.

“The Mpemba effect” is the idea of hot water can freeze faster than cold water, which was

originally discovered by a tanzanian high school student in the year 1969 of the name

“mpemba”. The Effect was studied but not intensely by aristotle, bacon, and descartes. The

experiment performed by “Mpemba” was questioned greatly causing many people to perform

the experiment to see if the untraditional, disproving science theory was an accurate one. In

order to perform this experiment

Measure certain amount of water and put Hot,cold and warm water in three beakers.

To heat the hot water use a pyrex beaker measure out 50mL of water and heat up. ( Cover the

top of the beaker so the water vapor will be captured and returned.)

Heat the water to the desired initial temperature.

Quickly weigh the beaker and water and then place in the freezer.

Monitor the temperatures and record how long it takes for the temperature to reach 0 degrees.

Weigh the beaker and water at the end of the experiment to see how much water evaporated

while it was in the freezer.

Repeat the experiment at least three times for each chosen initial temperature.The data tested

in our experiment represents the averages of each trial for Hot,warm and cold. The other graph

represents the average time.


(CH) CHEMISTRY

10 CH 448

Neri, Jillian

Edwards, Maya

Wakefield

Battery Power

Abstract:

Shelf life is the length of time an object can be stored and is considered usable. This project’s

goal was the test the effect of a battery’s shelf life on the quality of the charge. It was

hypothesised that the longer the shelf life of a battery, the less effective, or less quality the

charge will be. This was tested by separating batteries into groups. The control group was a

group of batteries used immediately. The first group of batteries had its voltage measured, and

then later was placed into flashlights, which were left on for three hours. The other trials were

left unused for one hour, three hours, and six hours. After the specified time left unused, the

batteries’ voltage was measured, and also left in flashlights for three hours. After the three hours

in the flashlight, the voltage was taken again and used to calculate the averages and the

drainage rate of the batteries. The results showed that the shelf life does have an effect on the

quality of the charge. The batteries with the longer shelf life showed to have a faster drainage

rate and lower average voltages. However, the results only showed small changes, as this

project was done over a small period of time. If further explored, this project could show the full

effects of shelf life on a battery.


(CH) CHEMISTRY

11 CH 449

Coldren, Olivia

Wakefield

The Effect of Metal Oxide Photocatalysts on Pollutant Degradation

Abstract:

The challenges of meeting the demands of clean water are far more complicated than they

seem, as our water supply is impacted by nearly every factor of our resource consumption; be it

factory pollutants, chemical runoff, or failures in pipes or treatment plants. Recent innovations

suggested using Titanium Dioxide; a photocatalyst used in everything from air purifiers to

photovoltaic solar cells to degrade hazardous waste through UV exposure. This experiment

intends to investigate 3 metal oxide photocatalysts to determine the optimal material for

purifying drinking water of organic pollutants. 3 metal oxide photocatalysts were tested on dye

indicator, methylene blue, to exhibit the same chemical response as dangerous pollutants

without introducing hazards, and providing a visual representation of the chemical being

degraded--the more effective the photocatalyst, the less visible the dye will become. Using

TiO2, SnO, and ZnO, the experiment was conducted under a UV light using a solution of

methylene blue and water, and introduced each photocatalyst. Conclusively, TiO2 proved most

effective--it dispersed evenly, removing all traces of dye. However, the main parameter intended

for numerical data--Total Dissolved Solids proved inconsistent due to photocatalytic residue

tainting the results; while the dye was degraded, the photocatalysts dispersed throughout the

water were interpreted as pollutants in the TDS reading. Seeing the challenge of proving a

numerical conclusion, the scientist designed a filtration system using a UV-exposed TiO2

coated centrifuge basin to degrade organic pollutants, and a water filter to extract the fine

particles of photocatalytic residue and provide


(CH) CHEMISTRY

11 CH 450

Spencer, Jayla

Wakefield

Bubble or Sizzle?

Abstract:

Have you ever taken an alka-seltzer, and wondered why it appears bubbly? Have you ever

thought Science is the reason behind it? Well, alka- seltzer is just like a soda, the bubbles are

carbon dioxide. The researcher found out that, the carbon dioxide isn’t working alone, it’s being

produced by a chemical reaction. Another key factor in this bubbly equation is the main

ingredients of alka- seltzer: aspirin, citric acid, and sodium bicarbonate. You’re probably

wondering “what does that have to do with anything?”. Well, when sodium bicarbonate dissolves

in water it splits into sodium, and bicarbonate ions. Then, the bicarbonate reacts with the

hydrogen ions, from the citric acid to get the products carbon dioxide, and water. The chemical

equation for this is: 3HCO3 + 3H → 3H2 O + 3CO2

If there's a larger particle being tested, then it will have a slower reaction. Now, the question is

what does the size of the particle have to do with the rate of reaction, and, how the ingredients

have an effect on the outcome? Based on the hypothesis, the expected outcome is that smaller

particles have a faster reaction rate, than larger particles; due to the fact that larger particles

have a larger concentration. The goal of the project is to figure out the real causes behind a

faster reaction time for smaller particles, and whether or not particle size even matters. All data,

and results will be written down in a lab notebook, and then put into a


(CH) CHEMISTRY

12 CH 451

Borja, Camile

Cheung, Jodi

George Mason

Summer In Your Hands

Abstract:

The aim for this experiment was to examine whether there was a difference in temperature (°C)

when there was an increase/decrease of sodium acetate or calcium chloride in the solution. In

this experiment, the sodium acetate hand warmers and the calcium chloride hand warmers were

compared. The independent variable for this experiment was the amount of sodium acetate or

calcium chloride in a hand warmer. The dependent variable was the temperature (°C) of the

hand warmer. The results for the sodium acetate hand warmers suggests that by adding more

sodium acetate the hand warmer heated longer. However, when there was less sodium acetate

in the solution the heat reaction either didn’t work or was not heated as long as the hand

warmers with more sodium acetate. The results for the calcium chloride hand warmers suggests

that by adding more calcium chloride to the hand warmers, the overall temperature does

increase as time goes by. Both of these hand warmers on a cold winter day will make you feel

like summer’s in your hands!


(EN) ENGINEERING

7 EN 500

Atkin, Sullivan

H-B Woodlawn

Investigating Gauss Rifle Design

Abstract:

The purpose of this experiment was to find the effect of the number of magnetic stages on the

distance a ball bearing is launched out of a Gauss Rifle. The experimental hypothesis was that

only one magnetic stage would send the ball bearing the furthest. There were multiple steps

that the researcher took to complete the experiment, including setup and running three trials. To

setup the experiment, a Gauss Rifle was built using fiberglass rods. After that, magnets were

taped to the gun certain distances apart based on the trial. At the start of each trial two ball

bearings were placed on the exit side of each magnet. A ball bearing was then set at the edge

of the gun, five centimeters from the first magnet. For the first set of trials, the researcher used

magnetic stages that were each 20 cm apart (5 stages, then 4, 3, 2, and then 1). For the

second set of trials, smaller distances were used between 5 magnetic stages (15 cm, 10 cm,

and 5 cm). For the final set, the researcher used a variable range of distances between stages

(20 cm between the first two, 15 cm between the second and third, 10 cm between the third and

fourth, and 5 cm between the fourth and fifth). The results showed that the hypothesis was not

supported. Five magnetic stages shot the ball bearing the farthest, and having a variable range

of distances between stages shot the ball bearing the farthest overall.


(EN) ENGINEERING

7 EN 501

Gillen, Kate

Gunston

The Effect of Coordinates on the Efficiency of Solar Panels

Abstract:

Solar energy is a sustainable, clean, waste-free way source of energy, which could one day

replace the energy produced by the use of fossil fuels, thus helping the environment. Solar

photovoltaic (PV) panels are one of the most common ways of capturing solar energy. Many

factors can affect the amount of energy captured by a solar panel. In this experiment, the

direction of the solar panel was varied to determine the optimal position to maximize the solar

energy captured by a solar panel. During the experiment, data was collected throughout the

day by pointing the solar panel in five different directions: north, south, east, west, and the

control, straight upwards. For each solar panel position, the voltage produced by the panel was

measured using a volt meter. The hypothesis was that a fixed solar panel facing south would

capture the most energy over the course of a day, given that the experiment was being

conducted in the Northern Hemisphere. The data showed that the solar panel facing south

produced the most voltage, with an average of 21.74 volts. The least amount of voltage was

collected by the solar panel facing west, with an average of 13.06 volts. This experiment

supports the hypothesis that fixed solar panels capture the most solar energy when facing

towards the Equator, in this case south.


(EN) ENGINEERING

7 EN 502

Glade, Grace

George Washington

How does the placement of materials affect the strength and efficiency of a

crab claw?

Abstract:

The purpose of the experiment was to investigate “How does the placement of materials affect

the strength and efficiency of a crab claw?” The reason for investigating in this project was

because my teacher showed the class a video about scientists doing biomimicry based of a

crab claw, this is what the project is based of. The investigation was conducted by researching

how crab claws work then using that information to create two working crab claws, that would

open, or close when one syringe pushed water through another syringe therefore moving the

“crab claw” The conclusion of the experiment was that the first crab claw ended up working

much better than the second crab claw, and being able to hold 10 pieces of paper while the

second crab claw could hold none. The experiment showed that the crab claw only will work

when there is pressure that is pushing down the crab claw when it is closed. This reflects upon

the second crab claw that did not work because when it was closed nothing held it down

therefore it could not hold anything. If the experiment was conducted again, the amount of crab

claws would increase to further test how the placement of the materials used affects how well

the crab claw will work.


(EN) ENGINEERING

7 EN 503

Grimes, Stella

George Washington

How Distance, Capsizing, and Sinking are Affected by Different Boat Hulls

Abstract:

Every boat hull has a different “use case”. For this experiment I am going to see how different

boat hulls are affected by force, and different amounts of weight. For this experiment I am going

to need to make the boat hulls and test how far they go, and how much weight they can

withstand. In this experiment the IV is the different boat hulls, and the dependent variable is how

far the boat travels/ how much weight it can carry. To do this experiment I will need many

important things. For example; water, glue, and a bathtub where I can do the experiment. After I

did my experiment I saw my data was showing that the Multi-hull got the highest amounts on

everything. While, the Vee-bottom and Round-bottom got the least on everything. From this

experiment I learned about how different boat hulls all have different things they are supposed

to be used in/how they are used (“use cases”). The type of hull a boat has greatly affects how

far it can go, and whether or not it will capsize and/or sink in some cases.


(EN) ENGINEERING

7 EN 504

Mani, Jenin

Jefferson

EFFECT OF TEMPERATURE ON ROAD MATERIAL

Abstract:

The purpose of this experiment is to study the effect of different levels of temperature (40

degrees Fahrenheit, 70 degrees Fahrenheit, 175 degrees Fahrenheit) on three different road

materials (granite cobblestone, asphalt and concrete). The independent variables are granite

cobblestone, asphalt, concrete and the different levels of temperature. There is no control group

involved in this experiment. The dependent variable is how each material is affected by the

different levels of temperature. The hypothesis was that cobblestone granite will least fluctuate

in expansion and contraction. The project is beneficial because it will help local governments

decide which material most beneficial for their roads.

The results show that granite cobblestone fluctuated the most in expansion and contraction with

a length of 4.3mm between the temperatures of 40-175 degrees fahrenheit. Concrete showed

the least fluctuation and expansion and contraction with a length of 0.5mm between the

temperatures from 40-175 degrees fahrenheit. Asphalt did not show as much expansion and

contraction throughout this experiment. Between the temperatures from 40-175 degrees

fahrenheit the length for asphalt expanded 1.8mm. There were no visible changes in the

materials such as cracks or any deformation

In my experiment the results showed that granite cobblestone had the highest fluctuation with a

change in length of 4.3mm between the tested temperatures from 40-175 degrees fahrenheit.

The results for concrete were miner. Between the tested temperatures from 40-175 degrees

fahrenheit the length changed in size 0.5mm. The results for asphalt showed that between the

tested temperatures from 40-175 degrees fahrenheit


(EN) ENGINEERING

7 EN 505

Ullom, Mallory

Rogers, Lucille

H-B Woodlawn

What Colored Candle burns the Fastest?

Abstract:

For our science fair project we were testing what Colored Candle burns the Fastest. Our

hypothesis was that darker colored candles would burn faster. We got 20 candles( 2 candles for

each color.) We numbered them 1 through 20 and lined them up, then we weighed each

individual candle. Then started to light the candles trying to get them all to light around the same

time. We did our project by 35 minute trials and after burning them for 35 minutes we would

weigh each of the candles and then re-light them for another 35 minutes and weigh them again.

We would keep doing this process until every candle burned out and we couldn't light them

anymore.


(EN) ENGINEERING

8 EN 506

Deininger, Gregor

Jefferson

Which winglet designs work the best on gliders?

Abstract:

A large issue facing the world today is the issue of climate change. A leading cause of it is

airplanes. Over the years, engineers have been working on different winglet designs to make

airplanes more efficient. Winglets help reduce drag. In this experiment, I tested different types of

winglet designs on how far a glider could fly. I tested several popular winglet designs, and had

one group with no winglets for comparison. The other groups tested were eagle winglets, raked

winglets, 45° winglets, straight up winglets, and curved winglets. It was hypothesized that the

curved winglets would fly the greatest distance, because they were the most aerodynamic

design. The hypothesis was rejected, because the 45° winglets flew the greatest distance. The

raked winglets flew the 2nd greatest distance. The least distance was flown by the eagle

winglets. It is believed to have flown the least distance because the design of the eagle winglets

cause the most drag. If this experiment would be conducted again, I would try to be more

accurate with my measurements. When I measured, I had no particular part of the plane that I

measured to.


(EN) ENGINEERING

8 EN 507

Donnellan, Katherine

Hammond

Building a Better Bridge

Abstract:

This year, for science fair, I decided to build three bridges, one after the other, each having a

design change made so that the bridges can hold more weight. I designed my bridge using the

Warren Truss Bridge as a model. I used the Warren Truss because the The purpose of my

project is to show how a structural adjustment can allow the bridge to hold much more weight.

When conducting my project, I first created the blueprints for my bridge. Next, I constructed the

bridge and then tested the bridge after the glue dried for at least 48 hours. After this, I analyzed

the bridge, drew conclusions, and made adjustments to the design. I then repeated these steps

two more times. When testing these bridges, I found design flaws, places where my bridges

were weak. I would then change the design, so that the next bridge would not fail (break) in the

same places. My hypothesis shows that when I modified the design of my bridge, the maximum

load my bridge could hold increased.


(EN) ENGINEERING

8 EN 508

Evans, Jack

Williamsburg

The Effect of Hydrofoil Bend Angle on Speed Needed to Foil

Abstract:

The experiment was conducted to test the effect of hydrofoil bend angle on speed needed to

foil, or lift the boat hull out of the water. The purpose of this experiment was to find how to better

use hydrofoils to travel more efficiently over water. There were four levels of independent

variable, hydrofoils with a bend angle of 0 degrees, 30 degrees, 60 degrees, and 90 degrees.

The experiment was done by attaching the four sets of foils to a model trimaran and towing it

with a tape measurer in a pool. The data was collected by seeing how long it takes one meter of

tape to round a pole and determining the speed in km/h. The hypothesis was that if the 30

degree foils were used, then the foiling speed would be the lowest, because the foils are the

closest to horizontal. The hypothesis was partially supported because the 60 degree foil started

foiling at a lower speed on average, but is the same distance from horizontal as the 30 degree

foil. The 30 and 60 degree foils foiled at 5.27 km/h on average, and 5.25 km/h on average

respectively. The 0 degree foils foiled at 6.35 km/h on average and the 90 degree foils foiled at

5.89 km/h on average. From the data, it can be concluded that if the foils are closer to

horizontal, then slower speed will be needed for the boat to start foiling.


(EN) ENGINEERING

8 EN 509

Grant, Eleanor

Williamsburg

The Effect of Weight Distribution Within a Structure on the Structure's

Stability During an Earthquake

Abstract:

The purpose of this experiment was to determine whether the way weight was distributed within

a building affected how long a building could stand up to an earthquake before falling over. To

conduct the experiment 2 wooden blocks and 1 foam block were stacked together on a wooden

“shake table”. Three levels were tested, weighted block on top, weighted block in the middle,

weighted block on bottom and at each level 6 trials would be run where the shake table was

shaken with the structure and the amount of time the structure took to fall in seconds would be

recorded. It was found that the results of the experiment did support the hypothesized outcome

which was that if the weighted block is placed on the bottom of the stacked blocks then the

structure will be more stable because the blocks will not be holding something heavier then its

own weight. When the weighted block was placed on the top of the stack the stability was the

worst and on average stood for 3.85 seconds. When the weighted block was placed in the

middle the stability was fair and on average stood for 9.18 seconds. When the weighted block

was placed on the top of the stack the stability was the best and the stack of blocks on average

stood for 12.14 seconds.The trials show that as the weighted block got closer to the bottom the

structure stood for a longer amount of time.


(EN) ENGINEERING

8 EN 510

Gyllenhoff, Anders

George Washington

The Effect of Magnetic Pulses on a Projectiles Velocity

Abstract:

The purpose of this investigation is to use magnets and ball bearings to find a way to create

effective green transportation. This is globally relevant because today transportation causes

much of the world's polution and is not very effective. My experiment on a large scale would be

much like a bullet train placed in a vacuum however it would cause much less pollution than

other forms of transportation, would be faster, and would use less energy.

In this experiment magnets will be arranged with the same polarities facing one direction in a

straight line on a board. The distances from each other will differ and the amount of magnets in

each interval will differ. Next to magnets, two ball bearing will be placed on each positive side. A

ball bearing will then be rolled down the board, hitting the negative side of the first magnetic

interval. Causing a stage of magnetic pulses to occur, resulting in a projectile being fired at the

end. The results will be then measured and further tests will be conducted.

At the conclusion of this project I discovered that the more magnetic pulses applied to the

projectile the faster it travels until it reaches a maximum velocity. The optimum track for

transportation would have a gradual increase in pulses until it hits the point where it's speed is

consistent. However the track would have to consist of a larger quantity of small pulses because

the human body can only handle 5 g’s before passing out.


(EN) ENGINEERING

8 EN 511

Sperry, Matthew


Adjustable Walking Boot for Inclines

Abstract:

Prescribing medical walking boots to patients with foot or ankle injuries has become the norm,

due to the many advantages of walking boots over traditional synthetic casts (Keefer 2008).

Motivated by personal experience, this project addresses the problems of a boot wearer

becoming off balance and having strain on the knee of the booted leg while walking on an

incline. First, it was shown that walking with solid wood wedges on the bottom of the boot

effectively canceled out the incline. With a wedge angle equal to a 9 degree incline, the stride

length of walking in the boot was equal to that of normal shoes, and it decreased knee

abduction and adduction rate by about one radian per second. The difficulty and discomfort of

walking on the incline was also subjectively decreased compared to the unmodified boot. Then

an adjustable-wedge prototype was created with two thin plywood pieces cut to match the boot

outsole and connected at one end with a hinge. Near the other end, holes were bored into the

sides to allow “U” shaped steel rods to be inserted into the holes, creating a wedge. The solid

wedges demonstrated that the adjustable wedge would work and be very beneficial in the real

world not just for kids, but for the elderly who might have poorer balance and more knee

problems.


(EN) ENGINEERING

9 EN 512

Bowman, Annabelle

Yorktown

Frequency - Dependent Sound Transmission Blockage

Abstract:

This experiment showed the effect of different building materials on sound transmission. Each

material was placed between a speaker enclosed in an anechoic box and a microphone. The

seven different materials (open air, 1/2 inch drywall, 5/8 inch drywall, mass loaded vinyl,

sandwich of mass loaded vinyl and 5/8 inch drywall, sonex foam, and paper) were tested for

sound transmission properties. The purpose of the experiment was to find out which building

materials can be used to best block high, low, and mid-range frequencies, as well as which

materials can be used to evenly attenuate a sound. From the data collected during the

experiment, we can conclude that the two layers of 5/8 inch drywall and mass loaded vinyl

blocked the most high frequency sounds. While the 1/2 inch drywall blocked the most mid-

range. The sandwich of 5/8 drywall and mass loaded vinyl also blocked the most low frequency

sounds. The sonex foam did not block the sound, but instead provided uniform attenuation

above 250Hz. High frequency sounds were easier to block in general than low frequency

sounds. According to the statistics, the sandwich and control had the greatest difference at

32.74 dB. The control and the sonex foam had the smallest difference at 9.556 dB, with paper

coming in a close second at 9.703 dB. Trends in the data support the idea that the more the

dense building material, the less sound will be transferred.


(EN) ENGINEERING

9 EN 513

Cardwell, Owen

T.C. Williams

Generating Energy From Footsteps: The Use of Pedestrian Traffic to Help

Solve Our Energy Crisis

Abstract:

Electricity is used all over the world and it is mainly generated from fossil fuels that release

carbon dioxide into the environment, causing global warming. This project is seeking to

contribute to reducing this problem by designing kinetic tiles that can harness energy from

pedestrian footsteps. There are 3 tile designs, one that uses piezoelectrics, one that uses a DC

motor, and one that uses a speaker. For each of these designs, there were 3 tests conducted

with 3 trials each. First, a person walked over the tile, then a person ran over the tile, and finally,

a weight was dropped from a height of 3 feet. For these tests, all results were recorded as well

as the cost and reliability of each design. The final findings of the project were that the DC motor

was the cheapest, but the piezoelectrics were the most reliable and generated the most energy.

Also, since all the designs are fairly cheap, they could provide a less harmful way to generate

energy in the future.


(EN) ENGINEERING

9 EN 514

Krupicka, Janelle

T.C. Williams

Floating Structures as an Adaptation to Sea Level Rise

Abstract:

As sea levels rise, due to climate change, coastal cities must adapt by developing innovative

structures that take advantage of the new environment. In my project I am determining the best

number of residential floating structures to maximize space for families and to limit the

environmental impact of the structures. I predicted that out of three models -- A (6 building

units), B (3 building units), and C (2 building units) -- model B would be best suited to sustain 6

families with the least density. In order to test my hypothesis I designed and built 6 floating

building units that could sustain 2 families each and measured the masses of the building units.

Then, I calculated the density of the models by dividing the mass of the cumulative building

units for that model by the volume of the plastic container where the models were placed. The

data showed that because model B was able to sustain 6 families while also having less density

than model C, it would be the best model to implement in real-life. In conclusion, floating

platforms could be a viable adaptation to sea level rise for coastal cities everywhere.


(EN) ENGINEERING

9 EN 515

Miller, John

Arlington Tech

The Effect of Dehumidification on a Solar Evaporative Still

Abstract:

I wondered if it was possible that solar still technology could eventually be refined enough to

become a household appliance.

The purpose of this experiment was to determine whether adding a solar powered dehumidifier,

simulated by a 13 watt Peltier device, to a solar still would increase the rate at which distilled

water was produced. My hypothesis was that using a solar still with dehumidifier would produce

more purified water than a solar still that used conventional condensation. To test my

hypothesis, I conducted 10 tests using a solar still with conventional condensation, and 10 tests

using a solar still with a dehumidifier used to collect condensation. After each 24 hours test, I

measured the amount of water collected. After completing my tests, I compared the results with

conventional condensation with the results for dehumidifier collected condensation. My

conclusion was that using a dehumidifier to condense water vapor was a definite improvement

to a conventional solar still. Furthermore, I concluded that leveraging this concept would open

the door for other innovations that may yield even more substantial improvements in solar still

technology.


(EN) ENGINEERING

9 EN 516

Stocks, Allison

Yorktown

The Effect of Tuned Liquid Damper Baffle Height on Building Oscillation

Amplitude

Abstract:

Prior studies have shown TLD baffles can lessen the amplitude of building oscillation. To

explore the impact of different heights of TLD baffles on building oscillation amplitude, an

experiment was conducted. The purpose was to determine the effect of TLD baffle height on

building oscillation amplitude. A building made of aluminum and wood was constructed with a

water tank attached on top. Four baffles with the heights 210mm, 205mm, 200mm, and 195mm

were cut from plastic material and the tank was filled with 50mm of water. To determine building

oscillation amplitude, one baffle at a time was placed into the tank. The shake table was turned

on. Building oscillation amplitude was measured using measurement apparatus. The oscillation

amplitude was the most with the 210mm baffle. As the TLD baffle height decreased to 205mm,

200mm, and 195mm, the oscillation amplitude also decreased. The results of the trials indicate

as the TLD baffle height decreased, the building oscillation amplitude decreased. This can be

explained because the shorter baffle heights provide more room underneath for liquid to travel.

The more room, the faster the liquid travels, and the less time for the building to move. The

experiment confirmed TLD baffles with the correct height can help to lower oscillation amplitude.

To improve this experiment one could use more drastically different TLD baffle heights in order

to discover the limit of how short a TLD baffle can be before it has no effect on oscillation

amplitude.


(EN) ENGINEERING

9 EN 517

Cocke, Townson

Cocke, Emmett

T.C. Williams

Adjusting Winglet Parameters: The Effect of Dihedral Angle, Integration,

and Rake on Winglet Drag Coefficient

Abstract:

According to Penner, aircrafts may be responsible for 15% of all greenhouse gas emissions (et

al. 1999). The world isn’t going to cease to rely on air travel anytime soon, so it is thus

necessary to minimize inefficiencies in aircrafts. One way that airliners have been minimizing

inefficiency is by introducing winglets onto airplane wing design. However, winglets have no

standard size or shape, signifying that they have not yet been perfected in design. Through

Autodesk CFD, a highly accurate 3d computational fluid dynamics engine, we aimed to improve

winglet design. We created 27 different winglet variations each with 3 levels; low, medium, and

high of varying rake, dihedral angle, and integration (blend) sharpness. We hypothesized that

winglets with a low dihedral angle, high rake, and low integration sharpness would have the

least drag.We found that the optimal winglet with a drag coefficient of 2.8502643233×10-7 had

high rake, low integration sharpness, and medium dihedral angle. Furthermore, we investigated

not only the optimal design for a winglet, we found the pattern of variation between the

parameters and the drag coefficient. We found that across all of the iterations, winglets with high

rake, low integration, and high dihedral angle resulted in the lowest drag coefficient. To explain

our results we used Autodesk CFD’s many visualization features to see vorticity and vectors

which show airflow. This result could be used as a guideline for airplane wing designers, as it

shows the relationship between dihedral angle, rake, and blend and aerodynamic performance.


(EN) ENGINEERING

9 EN 518

Wright, Dylan

Grimes, James

T.C. Williams

The Effect of the Type of Material on the Amount of Cell Phone Radiation it

Blocks

Abstract:

The density of a material affects the amount of cell phone radiation being blocked. Our

hypothesis is that out of all the materials that we test to see how much radiation emitted by a

cell phone they block, the cast iron will block the most radiation because it is the densest

material being tested. In order to test our hypothesis, we created a setup with an iPhone 6 on a

phone call on the ground and the material being tested on top of it. Then we used a radiation

meter to test how much radiation was coming from the phone through the material. Our

conclusion was that our hypothesis was supported, and cast iron did block the most radiation.

Furthermore, we concluded that the denser a material was the more radiation it would block.


(EN) ENGINEERING

10 EN 519

McKnight, Matthew

Washington-Lee

The Effect of a Flettner Rotor on the Lift and Drag Produced by a Standard

Airfoil

Abstract:

The purpose of this experience is to discover if a Flettner Rotor has an effect on the lift and drag

produced by a standard airfoil. A Flettner Rotor is a rotating cylinder that in this experiment was

embedded into the wing just behind the apex of the wing. The hypothesis of the experiment

was, if the test model contains a Flettner Rotor than it will produce a more lift and less drag than

a standard airfoil.

The lift, drag, and L/D ratio were determined by testing 3D printed test models in a Jet Stream

500 wind tunnel. Both the standard airfoil and the airfoil with a Flettner Rotor embedded were

tested at 30, 40, 50, and 60 miles per hour at 0 degrees of attack. Than they were also tested at

50 miles per hour at 30 and negative 30 degrees of attack.

The results show that a Flettner Rotor does increase the amount of lift produced, however as

the the velocities increased the margin between the performances of the two wings shrank

greatly.

From these results, it can be concluded that while a Flettner Rotor may improve aerodynamic

performance at slow speeds future testing will be necessary to determine its effect at higher

speeds where the extra drag produced by the Flettner Rotor may outweigh the added lift it also

provides.


(EN) ENGINEERING

10 EN 520

Robinson, Donovan

T.C. Williams

Dangers of the Earth!

Abstract:

I was tired of the same routine, reading through my text books to learn new material or to

prepare for upcoming quizzes. I challenged myself to show my teachers that there is always a

more fun way of learning new things about science. My science project allowed me to be a little

less traditional and draw, program, and create my own video game that is in the setting of the

basics of earth science. What I mean is that in the game, Dangers of the Earth, you're going to

run around in a volcano, jump over magma, and rocks to show the different scientific elements

in a geology-based environment. You will also be interacting in an oceanography-based

environment where you’ll run around at the bottom of the ocean, avoiding ocean currents, and

using ocean vents to lift you higher and help you avoid monster crabs. My goal is to make this

game a tool teachers could use that is as an entertaining way to go over the very basics of earth

science in the classroom - by having students play and enjoy the game. I believe if more

teachers were allowed to present more creative ways to their students to understand

challenging subjects, such as I have, school subjects would be easier and more enjoyable to

learn!


(EN) ENGINEERING

10 EN 521

Teodorescu, Radu

Yorktown

The Development of a Semi-Autonomous Assistive Raspberry Pi Robot

Abstract:

This project presents the work related to designing and building a semi-autonomous LEGO

robot based off Raspberry Pi modules and Brick Pi attachments. The robot is controlled by a

program written in Python Version 2.7.3 and it is able to detect, grasp, and transport objects. It

can assist people with limited mobility to visualize and handle out-of-reach objects. Additionally,

it can remotely perform these operations in conditions dangerous to humans. The robot has

three main parts – the body, the arm, and the camera. The body holds all the components, and

can move forwards, backwards, left and right. The arm can rotate by approximately 270

degrees, and can grasp light objects with the incorporated claws. The Pi camera can transmit

live video. Additionally, the robot is equipped with: two Raspberry Pi units, two Brick Pi

interfaces, six LEGO NXT Mindstorms motors, and one LEGO NXT Mindstorms ultrasonic

sensor. It can operate in two modes: a user-controlled mode in which the user commands the

movements of the body and the arm, and a semi-autonomous mode in which the user

commands the movement of the body, but the robot controls the arm. I will present the robot

and I will demonstrate its functionality.


(EN) ENGINEERING

10 EN 522

Christino, Martha

Lytle, Leslie

Luther, Cameron

T.C. Williams

The Development of an Autonomous Snow Removal Robot

Abstract:

The purpose of this project is to reduce the burden placed on homeowners to clear snow from

sidewalks and local walkways after winter storms. Approximately 11,500 are people hospitalized

with snow shovel related injuries in the US each year. Working through the engineering design

process, the researchers set the goal of creating a fully autonomous robot that can clear snow

from a 3m by 1m space with 10cm of settled snow. The project was broken up into four sections

in accordance with the Engineering Design Process. The first step achieved by the researchers

was to design the robot in accordance with the calculations for the power needed from the

motors. Calculations based on Newton’s second law were completed to find that between 270N

to 540N of force are necessary to clear 1m of snow in 0.5 to 1s. Using the mechanical

advantage provided by the wedge at the front of the system, the researchers found that only

110 N to 230N of force are needed to accomplish this acceleration. The basic design of the

system was modeled in a Computer Aided Design system, with consideration made for

improving traction in the snow. Overall, the engineering goal for this project is still in progress

and data gathered will continue to affect the outcome of the project. In the future the

researchers expect to find the efficiency of the robot created to be greater than that of human

ability in clearing snow.


(EN) ENGINEERING

11 EN 523

Preisser, Reece

Yorktown

Investigation of Hydraulic Turbine Efficiency

Abstract:

The goal of this project was to compare the efficiencies of 3 different hydraulic turbine styles

used in today’s world: Crossflow, Pelton, and Turgo, to understand which would be best to use

at large scale. The first step to make this comparison was the construction of scale turbines

using a 3D printer. While designing these in inventor proved easy, the actual 3D printing served

difficult due to the long print time and technical difficulties. The turbines were designed and

printed to equal weights, fin counts, and sizes using ABS Plastic. After printing was achieved,

the turbines were placed on an axle in a metal Vex apparatus that was attached to a hobby

motor. Hose water of constant head, distance, pressure, and flow rate was run over them over a

10s time period, 10 times per turbine. The a labquest sensor, hooked up to a load and the

motor, measured the voltage and current produced by each turbine. These values were

multiplied to produce a measurement of the average power created by the turbine for each 10s

trial. It was found that the Turgo turbine had the highest power production. It can be concluded

that the Turgo turbine is the most efficient turbine under similar conditions. This is most likely

because of its combination of a high surface area, bucket design, as well as a low rotational

inertia. This investigation as a whole demonstrates both the advantages of the Turgo turbine as

well as the engineering power of 3D printing technology.


(EN) ENGINEERING

12 EN 524

Lally, Samuel

T.C. Williams

Creating a Safe and Affordable Small-Scale Electric Arc Furnace

Abstract:

The purpose of this experiment was to build a safe and affordable small-scale electric arc

furnace. Electric arc furnaces are used on a large-scale level in metal recycling factories, but

very little work is done on a small-scale level. The few designs online of small-scale electric arc

furnaces are excessively unsafe and safety could be easily increased. The base design of the

small-scale electric arc furnace is using two redesigned microwave high voltage transformers in

a series. The electric arc furnace uses mains electricity as its input and converts it to low voltage

and high current. The primary dangers of electric arc furnaces are the risks of shock or burning

from skin contact while operational. In order to minimize these risks my electric arc furnace

required no handheld contact while operational and had a detached on/off switch. The four

goals I had for my electric arc furnace were to increase safety, be able to melt aluminium, be

produced for less than $75, and have at least 50% efficiency through the transformers. Overall

the electric arc furnace was a success and there is still room to advance the project. If the

design for the electric arc furnace continues to advance there is the possibility of producing

multiple units and marketing them to local businesses.


(EV) EARTH AND ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCES

7 EV 600

Lopez, Mya

Hammond

Not So Hard

Abstract:

My science fair project is on water hardness. Hard water is not the optimal choice for cleaning

objects. The purpose of my project is to detect the hardest water out of distilled water, spring

water, and tap water.

My research question is which water is the hardest out of distilled water, tap water, and spring

water. My hypothesis is that distilled water is the hardest water. This has to do with my rationale

due to it dealing with water hardness.

Procedure:

Label each jar Decide the amount of water you will put in each jar Using a measuring cup, measure out and pour the amount of water you decided into jar Decide on how long you will shake the jar Decide on how much soap you will use Add the amount of soap to the jar that contains distilled water Put the lid on the jar Start the timer and shake the jar until the timer goes off. Set the jar on a flat surface and draw a straight line to mark the height of the bubbles Measure from the bottom of the jar to the height of the bubbles Record the data Repeat steps 6-11 with tap water

Repeat steps 6-11 with spring water

There were no hazards involved with this project. When I shake the jar I will create

bubbles which will determine the water hardness. After completing my experiment I found out

that distilled water is the hardest. For the results I will use bar graphs.



7 EV 601

Musick, Mary

H-B Woodlawn

How Does Color Affect Heating by Absorption of Light?

Abstract:

Four years ago, at a Smithsonian summer camp, I learned that different colors absorb different

amounts of heat. The topic was interesting and in School the following year I learned that

different colors have different wave length. As a result, some colors absorb and reflect more

heat than other colors. interested in this topic, but school never really went in depth with the

subject. I wanted to see whether darker colors absorb more light and create more heat. For the

experiment, my hypothesis was that darker colors would absorb more light, therefore creating

more heat. I tested to see if a jar wrapped with darker colored paper would absorb more light

than jars wrapped with paper of lighter colors. I wrapped eight jars with different colored

construction paper, leaving one jar without paper as a control. I filled all nine jars with water at

room temperature. I put a jar in front of a heat lamp for fourth five minutes, and recorded the

starting and ending temperature of the water. I repeated that three times for each of the nine

jars. The temperature of the water in jars wrapped with darker colors was higher on average

than the temperature of the water in the jars wrapped with paper of lighter colors. The results

showed that darker colors absorb more light and generate more heat energy than lighter colors.

Using different colors to stop and prevent global warming is one way that the results may help

society.



7 EV 602

Noble, Morgann

Kenmore

The effect of different light sources on plant growth

Abstract:

My project is about two identical plants being placed in different spaces in my home. Over the

course of one month I measured the growth of each plant. Both plants were given the same

amount of water. But one was placed in a window sill and the other was placed in a closet

receiving light from a plant lamp. I was comparing the growth of both plants while they were

receiving different sources of light.



7 EV 603

Risacher, Megan

Jefferson

The effect of pavement on plant growth

Abstract:

The purpose of this experiment was to find out if pavement has an effect on plant growth. The

independent variable was the type of water contaminated by different types of sidewalk material

(concrete, brick, asphalt, or nothing). The dependent variable was the plant height of the plant

after four weeks. Based on the research the hypothesis was, If plants are grown in water

contaminated with asphalt, concrete, or brick, then the plant grown in water contaminated with

brick will grow the tallest. The data rejected the hypothesis and showed the control averaged a

final growth of 16.5 cm, concrete 15.5, brick 12.5, asphalt 11.5. The concrete also sprouted first.

This is probably due to high calcium content in the concrete which is thought to have given the

plant a jump start. The magnesium in the brick is thought to have stunted the plant growth a

little. While the petroleum is thought to have definitely stunted plant growth, although further

research is needed to better understand. This experiment is important because these materials

are used in most cities around the country. Since pavement is now something hurting the

environment, and asphalt the pavement we use the most is the one that causes the most

damage. We as a state and maybe a country should set an example to do more work on making

the asphalt and other pavement more environmentally friendly.



7 EV 604

Wilcox, Katherine

Kenmore

The Effect of Location on the Amount of Particulate Matter in the Air

Abstract:

Science shows that air pollution can be harmful to public health. This project compares air

pollution levels at different locations. The hypothesis was that locations near major roadways

were suspected to have higher pollution levels, and the experiment tested this idea. Samples

were taken by exposing double-sided tape on a clear plastic film grid to the air at four different

locations. The samples were gathered after four days and the particles were counted under a

microscope. The experimental results showed that the hypothesis was correct and the locations

near major roadways have higher levels of particle pollution.



7 EV 605

Jacob, Timothy

Stievater, Adam

Swanson

Shall We See the Effects of Algae?

Abstract:

Does algae ruin underwater ecosystems? The experiment titled “Shall We See the Effects of

Algae?” explores the effect of algae on aquatic plant health and dissolved oxygen levels. The

hypothesis was if the amount of algae is increased, then the plant health and dissolved oxygen

levels will decrease. To conduct this experiment, fish tanks were filled with distilled water,

Elodea, and either 0, 2, or 4 milliliters of algae, adding ½ milliliter of plant food daily. After 10

days, the plant health and dissolved oxygen levels were checked. The hypothesis was

supported by the data. The plant health and the dissolved oxygen levels decreased in the tanks

that contained more algae. The reason why the plant health decreased with more algae was

because algae uses carbon dioxide in photosynthesis. All plants need carbon dioxide, and there

was not enough of carbon dioxide to sustain the Elodea. The reason why the dissolved oxygen

levels decreased was because when algae decomposes, it releases large amounts of oxygen.

When 0 milliliters of algae was administered, the plants stayed healthy and the dissolved

oxygen levels remained at 12 milligrams per liter. When 2 milliliters of algae was administered,

the plants dropped to a moderate condition, and the mean oxygen level was 11 mg/l. Finally,

when 4 milliliters of algae was administered, the mean oxygen level was 7 mg/l and the plants

were all dying or dead. Based on the data, algae negatively affects the underwater ecosystems.



7 EV 606

Motsinger, Taylor

Cohen, Alana

George Washington

The effect of pollution on streams based on the number of

Macroinvertebrates in streams leading into the Potomac River

Abstract:

Macroinvertebrates are small aquatic animals with no backbone. They are affected by different

pollution conditions. Macroinvertebrates can influence many things on earth, including the food

chain, the amount of living organisms in a habitat, and how healthy the water is surrounding it.

Taylor run had the greatest number of macroinvertebrates. Reducing pollution in the tributaries

that lead to the Potomac River would result in many more macroinvertebrate species that could

live there.

This project studies how different levels of pollution in tributaries affected the

macroinvertebrateswich live there. Five different streams in this experiment were able to show

how different areas in Alexandria had different amounts of macroinvertebrates and pollution. A

special macroinvertebrate net was used for the capture and release part of the experiment. Five

different locations in each stream were tested. After a macroinvertebrate was caught we would

put the aquatic creature under the microscope. The result allowed us to locate the

macroinvertebrate in our macroinvertebrate chart, which showed which sensitivity it had to

pollution. Taylor Run that was the narrower and deeper than the other streams. The

macroinvertebrates that were living in that stream were sensitive to pollution. That information

allowed us to conclude that Taylor Run was a cleaner stream.



8 EV 607

Asmerom, Euodia

Hammond

Rockfalls

Abstract:

Rockfalls are the process of rocks falling, sliding or rolling down a slope. These can be

fascinating to learn about but can be strikingly deadly. On average they can cause twenty-five to

fifty deaths and roughly $3.5 billion dollars in damages. Yet the question is why and how do they

happen? If I alter the surface of the model rockfall then I will find out that friction is the cause of

rockfalls. For my procedure I will be creating a mini version of a rockfall, by letting Legos

represent rocks, A clipboard being a mountain and changing the exterior of the clipboard to find

the angle of repose, thus finding which surface is more vulnerable to rockfalls. I observed that

the sandpaper had a higher angle of repose due to to the high level of resistance it had, so

these results supported my hypothesis. My experiment went smoothly and as planned and

doing this experiment helped me learn more about these disasters and how to get more

awareness for them .



8 EV 608

Beauvais, Anais

Gunston

The Effect of pH Level on the Mass and Physical Appearance of Mussel

Shells

Abstract:

Ocean acidification is a rapidly progressing phenomenon involving decreasing marine pH levels

due to increasing greenhouse gas emissions. It is particularly problematic to organisms with

shells or skeletons, but can affect entire marine ecosystems. Studying how certain pH levels

affect marine organisms will allow us to better understand these effects. The experimental

purpose is to quantify the effect of differing pH levels on mussel shell mass and physical

appearance. The experiment was conducted by filling 24 jars with water of different pH levels,

each containing 50.0 g mussel shell fragments. The acidic levels of the water were pH 8.1, 8.0,

7.9, 7.8, 7.7, and 7.6, and four jars were assigned to each acidic level. The mussel shells were

left to sit for one month, and then removed, weighed, and observed to determine physical

appearance alteration. The hypothesis stated that if pH decreases, shell mass will decrease,

and the physical appearance will indicate a visibly weaker, more corroded shell structure. The

experimental results did not support the hypothesis. Although the quantitative data indicated

slight change in the mass of some jars--a 0.3 g increase, and a 0.4 g decrease--there was no

direct correlation between pH and mass. The qualitative data (physical appearance) indicated

change, but no group demonstrated significantly greater change than another. Although the

experiment yielded mixed results, analysis of certain experimental aspects and errors provides

a better basis for further experimentation.



8 EV 609

Dunham, Jack

H-B Woodlawn

Climate Change: The Next Apocalypse?

Abstract:

The rationale for conducting this experiment is to inform about the effects of climate change. I

also care deeply about the topic and want to work for a better future. There was one major

portion of this experiment that was tested and two research portions. The research question for

the main part of this experiment questions how an influx of carbon levels in a controlled area

affects the acidity of water. The two smaller portions of this project researched what the effects

of climate change are and how we are going to fix or help fix climate change. The hypothesis in

the main part of the experiment states that when there is an influx in the carbon levels the water

would become vastly more acidic. I hypothesized this due to prior knowledge and research of

water acidification. I tested this hypothesis by greatly increasing the levels of carbon in a

controlled area using candles, as carbon is a byproduct of combustion, a universal indicator told

me the acidity of the water. My results did support my hypothesis. When there was an influx in

the carbon levels the water became much more acidic. Water acidification is only one of the

areas that climate change is affecting and there are many other ways that climate change has

already begun to affect our daily lives. Scientists estimate we have a short period of time before

some of the worst effects of climate change.



8 EV 610

Fugle, Sebastian

Williamsburg

Solar Desalination: Leading the Affordable Water Security Future

Abstract:

The purpose of this experiment was to find the time to freshwater ratio of 2 cups of salt water.

The ratio was determined by the amount of time in the sun (in minutes) over the amount of fresh

water produced. The levels of time spent in the sun began at 30 minutes and went up by 30

minutes for 4 more levels (60, 90, 120, 150). The hypothesis stated that if the amount of time

the desalination module remains in the sun increases, the amount of fresh water produced will

also increase, because water evaporates over time and does not reach a saturation below the

quantity of water remaining. There were many steps needed to set up the experiment. Setting

up the desalination module in the sun was the first step. The next step was to set a timer for the

level of IV. When the timer was done, the amount of water in the small bowl was measured

using the graduated cylinder or other measurement tool. After recording the data, it was

graphed and discussed. Each trial was repeated 5 more times. Only the mean was calculated

for this trial. The hypothesis was supported; however, the salt concentration, as well as the sun

setting, prevented the rate of evaporation to be steady. After running some tests, the average

time to freshwater ratio was determined to be on average 1 minute to 2.5 milliliters. This data

could be used to improve the lives of others across the world.



8 EV 611

Hatcher, Courtney

H-B Woodlawn

The Effect of Phytoremediation in Sunflowers on Lead Contaminated Soil

Abstract:

Lead contamination, particularly in young children, can lead to severe consequences, including

irreversible brain damage. Lead contamination in soil is an issue that is becoming more

prevalent in society as lead paint, lead contaminated auto emissions, and dust seeps into soil

where children play. For instance, a housing complex in East Chicago, had lead contamination

in soil over 30 times more than the amount that is recommended for children. When specific

plants, known as hyperaccumulators, are planted into a contaminated ground, they absorb

some heavy metals and toxins, through a process known as phytoremediation, reducing the

amount of contamination in the soil in a natural, sustainable, less expensive way; making it a

safer place for humans, plants, and wildlife. The purpose of this experiment was to determine

the effect of phytoremediation in sunflowers on lead contaminated soil. The researcher

predicted that sunflowers would accumulate a small amount of lead, to reduce lead levels to an

acceptable level. The hypothesis was tested by germinating and planting sunflowers with a

mixture of lead acetate and water. The plants and soil were then tested for lead and observed.

The preliminary results of this experiment are that the lead acetate and water affected them by

killing some and a limited impact on others. The 1% concentration in plants did much better than

the 10%. Also, it was concluded that 3,000 ppm of lead acetate was too much lead for

sunflowers at that state in their growth.



8 EV 612

Kilkenny, Erin

Williamsburg

The Effect of the Disinfecting Method on the Final Amount of Chlorine in

Water

Abstract:

The purpose of this experiment was to understand the effect of humans on the environment.

Chlorine from broken water mains and runoff from fire hydrants can enter the natural stream

and creek system. This can affect fish, amphibians, invertebrates, and other sensitive animals

living in our water. This research led to the creation of an experiment testing the effect of the

disinfecting method on the final amount of chlorine in water. The hypothesis was if the

disinfecting method is chemical dechlorinator then the final amount of chlorine will decrease

because of the chemical reaction between Sodium Thiosulfate and chlorine.

The hypothesis was supported by the data; The chemical dechlorinator was the most effective

with 0 ppm of chlorine, the next most efficient method was the carbon filter with 0.167 ppm of

chlorine, sitting for 24 hours left 0.33ppm of chlorine, and boiling was the least effective with 0.5

ppm which was the starting level.

The science behind the results have to do with the ingredients in the chemical dechlorinator

placed in the water. Chemical dechlorinators all include Sodium Thiosulfate which when comes

in contact with chlorine creates harmless chloride ions. The chlorine is completely removed

from the water instantly. Some improvements to the experiment could be a more accurate way

to measure the amount of chlorine, because the chlorine was measured using a color scale

looked at with human eyes. Further studies could include the effect of the water source on

amount of chlorine in water.



8 EV 613

Licato, James

Swanson

Utilizing Bioreactors: The Effect of Changing pH on the Amount of Nitrate

Removed and Gas Produced by Denitrifying Bacteria

Abstract:

Nitrate pollution in our waterways is one of the most urgent environmental problems that we

face. One potential solution for removing nitrate is denitrifying bacteria. The purpose of this

experiment was to find the effect of changing pH on the amount of nitrate removed and gas

produced by denitrifying bacteria within a bioreactor. It was hypothesized that if the level of pH

is changed, then a pH of 7 would result in the greatest reduction of nitrate and the greatest

production of gas because this is the optimum pH for denitrifying bacteria to thrive. Three

bioreactors were constructed to conduct the experiment. Four IV levels were tested, with pHs of

6, 7, 8, and 9. Fifteen trials were conducted for each level over a span of 12 hours. 1.2 mg of

nitrate was added to 15 liters of treated tap water. Bacteria mixture was added to each

bioreactor. Gas collection bags were weighed before and after testing. The reactors were

sealed, and then opened after each trial. Approximately 25 days of testing were conducted. The

data collected supported the hypothesis, with the 7 pH group removing the most nitrate and

producing the most gas, however, the 6 pH group trended very close behind. Taking this into

account, it was concluded that the difference was not statistically strong enough to support or

reject the hypothesis. Furthermore, it was concluded that using a bioreactor to efficiently remove

nitrate while producing a possible energy source could be a way to improve waterways

worldwide.



8 EV 614

McCormack, Michaela

George Washington

The Effect of pH on Turbidity

Abstract:

The purpose of this experiment was to determine the effect of pH on the efficiency of the

flocculation process. The flocculation process is when a chemical, called a coagulant, is added

to a water sample to decrease turbidity. The particles in the water have opposite charges,

causing them to float, or suspend in the water. The coagulant neutralizes the charges, causing

them to cluster together, and sink, due to the increased weight. The flocculation process is used

in water purification plants, as well as wastewater treatment facilities. It was hypothesized that

the pH would have an effect on the process. The three pHs used were a pH of 4, pH of 7, and a

pH of 9. It was then hypothesized that the lowest pH would cause the flocculation process to

become more efficient due to the increased acidity, which could help the coagulant neutralize

the particles faster. In the experiment, one gram of dried soil was added to one hundred

milliliters of water. Then, the coagulant was added. The solution was then stirred for two

minutes and rested for another fifteen. Then, the solutions were measured using a turbidity

meter. This process was conducted twice. On average, the pH of 4 had the lowest resistance

reading, therefore proving the hypothesis incorrect. This specific water sample neutralized the

particles in the water more efficiently, therefore causing it to have a lower resistance. The

results of this experiment can be applicable to water purification plants when flocculation is

needed.



8 EV 615

McDonald, Alexandra

Williamsburg

The effect of the temperature on the concentration of BPA

Abstract:

The purpose of this experiment was to determine the effect of different temperatures on the

concentration of BPA leached into water. People should care about this experiment because it

applies to the real world. More than 90% of us have it in our systems right now. BPA is a

chemical that is used to harden plastics. Its used in so many household items that it is one of

the largest produced chemicals in the world. The chemical is linked to brain damage, increased

prostate size and decreased sperm production, and even breast cancer. It is extremely harmful

in large quantities and when exposed to infants can be life threatening. My hypothesis was that

if the temperature increased the amount of BPA would also increase. The experimental results

supported my hypothesis by showing that when the water was heated to 100°C the

concentration of BPA was the highest, at a mean of 3ppb. In conclusion, BPA is a serious issue,

many die every year from the effects of being exposed to it. Since 100°C is boiling temperature,

it is best to never leave water bottles, or as a matter of fact any plastic, out in the heat, due to

the harmful effects the leached chemicals may have.



8 EV 616

McDonnell, Marissa

Jefferson

The Effect of Different Amounts of Chlorine Dioxide Water Purification

Tablets on E. coli Colonies

Abstract:

The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of different amounts of water purification

tablets on E. coli bacteria in water collected downstream of a dog park. The independent

variable was the number of water tablets added to the water (½, 1, or 2). The control group was

water that was not exposed to any water purification tablets. The dependent variable was how

many colonies of E. coli bacteria were present after the water samples were exposed to the

water purification tablets. The hypothesis was: If E. coli positive water samples are exposed to

either one or two water purification tablets, there will be no bacteria present for either sample.

The water samples were treated with the water purification tablets and poured into petri dishes.

The dishes were then left to incubate for 52 hours. After incubation, the dark blue/purple spots

(indicating E. coli colonies) were counted and recorded. The data show that the treatment

samples (1/2, 1, and 2 tablets) had no E. coli growth, which supports the hypothesis. The results

from this study are important because they suggest people can treat E. coli contaminated water

without exposing themselves to excessive and possibly dangerous levels of chlorine dioxide.



8 EV 617

Rigby, Anna

George Washington

The Effect of Urbanization on the Dissolved Oxygen Level in Virginia's

Waters

Abstract:

Dissolved oxygen (DO) is the level of free, non-compound oxygen present in the water. DO

affects many aquatic organisms, which in turn may affect land organisms on earth, too. DO is

affected by the temperature and other variables. Organisms need the right level to survive. The

optimal average DO for an organism is 6 ppm- 9 ppm. The focus of this project is to continue

the experiment of testing different areas of water in Virginia, but with additional testing at

upstream and downstream locations to determine whether urbanization affects DO levels.

The experiment tested three areas of water: Potomac River, Anacostia River, Four Mile Run,

and tap water as the control. For each area, there were two locations that were tested: an

upstream location that was less urban, and a downstream location that was more urban. The

unit that was used in the experiment was ppm (mg/L). The constant was that each location of

water had to be the same temperature to have an accurate measure for comparison. Three

trials were conducted for each location.The location was gathered as a sample, then an

ampoule which contains the yellow green leuco form of indigo carmine went into the sample,

then was compared with the test kit reference samples. The results show that the upstream

locations, in general, had more suitable levels for aquatic life, as opposed to the downstream

locations. Based on this experiment, humans should be mindful of urbanization toward the DO

level for aquatic life.



8 EV 618

Sharrer, Nick


Petroleum Runoff in an Urban Stream

Abstract:

Petroleum products are pollutants from automobiles and other machines that can wind up in our

streams when washed across hard surfaces such as roads or parking lots. There are

regulations in place to prevent this as much as is possible. An example of a regulation is the

requirement of an industrial permit for discharging liquid into the stormwater system. In addition

to having this permit, the site is monitored to protect the streams. Nearby Four Mile Run there is

a large industrial area comprised of automotive shops. If the facilities aren’t operated correctly,

the petroleum products from this area could wash down into Four Mile Run. To test if there were

any petroleum products in the stream, there were three trials at five different locations. One trial

while it was raining, one trial less than twenty-four hours after rain, and a third six days after it

had rained. These samples were taken to a lab and tested for petroleum products. The results

indicate no measurable DRO or GRO in the stormwater runoff and suggest a the potential for a

variety of things including:

That there were traces of petroleum in the water but had been diluted by the stream water or

regular storm water.

That local businesses and residents had been following procedures for discharge of petroleum

products.

That there were traces of petroleum that were below the detection limit of 0.5ml per liter.

That the traces had evaporated out of the water because of the high volatility of gasoline.



8 EV 619

Timura, Soren

Jefferson

The affect of the salinity of water on the corrosion of steel

Abstract:

The corrosion of iron is a common phenomenon, resulting when the particles of the alloy and

the oxygen chemically react with the moisture in the air. This process first creates a compound

called rust, or iron oxide, which can be seen as a splotchy reddish-brown tarnish on the surface.

Over time, the alloy will begin to disintegrate. This experiment was chosen to see how a higher

salinity of moisture affects the process of corrosion. The higher salinity of water was expected to

create a higher reactivity in the moisture, causing more chemical reactions within the alloy,

measured in the amount of “rust splotches” per square inch. Each splotch was counted at a

maximum size of 3cm square. 12 containers, put into 3 groups of 4, based on varying degrees

of salt in water, 1 group being tap water, 1 group being a scaled replication of ocean salinity,

and the other being twice the salinity of ocean water, had sheets of steel wool submerged in

them after 1 week. The average amount of splotches per square inch was counted for each

group. The group exposed to the highest salinity of water had the highest ratio of 1.15 splotches

per square inch. The hypothesis was accepted, however, the data only concluded that higher

salinity creates more rust, but this cannot be connected without further evidence to the overall

statement, because many more variables would need to be assumed to say that salinity is

related to overall corrosion.



8 EV 620

Troppe, Noah

H-B Woodlawn

Testing of the Potomac River Water Quality

Abstract:

The rationale for my experiment was to see how humans impacted the environment, specifically

the water quality. And what better water to test for water quality than the Potomac River? My

research question was: How do people affect the water quality in large cities? My hypothesis

was that the area with the least amount of human contact would have the best quality, while the

area with the most human contact would have the worst quality. The reasoning of the

hypothesis was that humans could not directly pollute the water as often in an area with less

human contact. I tested this hypothesis with a water quality kit with several measurements of

water quality, such as pH, coliform, and turbidity. I took several water samples at three locations

on the Potomac River.

The results of my experiment contradicted my hypothesis.. The water in the area with the

highest human contact had the best quality, and the water in the area with the least human

contact had the worst quality. However, the more I thought about the results the more they

made sense. The location with the highest levels of human contact had a strong current so that

the pollution would just flow down the river. The location with the least human contact was a

cove so no water could flow to the next location, it would just stay in the cove. Although all my

results showed mediocre water quality overall, the Potomac River could still greatly improve its

water quality.



8 EV 621

Visek, Alexandra

Swanson

Is Acid Rain Under Your Control?

Abstract:

Acid rain destroys many crops yearly. Acid rain brings down the pH of soil. Ph is a crucial part to

plant development. Acid rain has a pH of 4 which can bring the soils pH down to a pH of 4.5.

Plants need a pH around 7, a pH of 4 can have negative effects on the plant. Lime is a

substance that is commonly used in agriculture in areas affected by acid rain. Lime is composed

of an antacid called calcium carbonate. Calcium carbonate can be harmful when used in large

amounts, and can take up to years to show a significant change in the pH of the soil. Is there

any better alternative to using Lime? Sodium bicarbonate is an antacid similar to calcium

carbonate. Sodium bicarbonate, however is safer to use than calcium carbonate. The goal of my

experiment was to see if using sodium bicarbonate would be more effective than calcium

carbonate in neutralizing the pH of soil affected by acid rain.



8 EV 622

Winakur, Caroline

George Washington

Changing the Fuel Source: Effect of Biomass Fuel on Emissions

Abstract:

The purpose of this experiment is to compare the efficiency of three types of biomass cooking

fuels. Many people use biomass fuels around the world, which contributes to environmental

pollution. The three fuels chosen for this experiment, hardwood (maple), softwood (cedar), and

charcoal, are all commonly used for cooking. The fuels were burned and the total combustion

time, amount of smoke, remaining ash, and relative heat were measured and compared. The

hypothesis that the charcoal would burn for the longest and release the least smoke was

correct, since it took more than an hour and a half longer than the other fuels for the embers to

extinguish. However, something that wasn’t expected to happen was that the hardwood burned

for the shortest amount of time and produced the most smoke. Overall, the results of this

experiment were not conclusive enough to be usefully applied directly to the issue, but this line

of research can be used to help limit dangerous indoor air pollution and negative impacts on the

environment.



8 EV 623

Czarnecki, Caroline

Reecer, Sofia

Gunston

The effect of different natural water purrification techniques on the purity of

water

Abstract:

Many countries do not have access to the expensive methods of purifying water that are

considered a luxury and taken for granted in America. This experiment combined several

natural, inexpensive water purification methods into an original filter in hopes of being able to

share the design with impoverished and malnourished families around the world. The procedure

consisted of purifying water collected from Four Mile Run Creek with these methods: boiling,

rock boiling, SODIS, Moringa seed powder, xylem, Brita filter, and the original filter. The control

was left untouched. Purity was tested by placing a sample of water from each trial in a petri dish

with agar and, after 24 hours under a heat lamp, measuring the area of the largest bacterial

growth found. The hypothesis said that the original filter would purify water more effectively than

the Brita filter. The results did not end up supporting the hypothesis; they showed that the Brita

filter was the most effective purification method. The average size of the bacterial growth found

for the Brita filter was 0.95 mm2, while the average size found for the original filter was 1.39

mm2. However, the results were inconsistent and did not support the research. Contaminated

agar is a likely cause of this, which could mean that the results are incorrect. This is why the

scientists hope that, with amendments to both the filter and the experiment itself, the filter could

still one day be shared around the world with those who need it.



8 EV 624

Dillner, Alena

Danaceau, Grace

Gunston

The Effect of Various Backyard Surfaces Over Surface Temperature

Abstract:

This experiment was very helpful to the investigators. The object of this experiment was to find

the backyard surface that had the least temperature under a light bulb. The hypothesis of this

experiment was if the artificial turf is placed under the light, then it will measure the highest

temperature. This experiment was conducted for the safety of Arlington community members.

Investigators of this issue conducted the experiment very thoughtfully. 120 cm^2 of the five

materials were cut and placed into a fish tank, as to contain the air. Next, an adjustable lamp

was placed over the fish tank to mimic the sun. Measurements were taken in celsius. The

materials that were used are brick, grass, gravel, turf and cotton. The results of this experiment

supported the hypothesis. The material with the lowest temperature was cotton at 19.22°C. The

surface with the highest average temperature, artificial turf, is not a great option for backyards,

as it does take a negative spin on climate change. The members of this experiment met

requirements and thoroughly enjoyed completing the experiment. Researchers hope to conduct

further experiments in relation to this.



8 EV 625

du Pont, Helen

Harwood, Erika

George Washington

A Ground Breaking Conjecture: Testing lead content in unalike soil types

Abstract:

The purpose of this experiment was to collect relevant data on the different soil types such as

clay, sandy, and silty soil to determine which soil type has the highest concentration of lead. We

hypothesized that if you test the lead content in different soil types than clay soil will comprise

with the highest concentration of lead particles, and the sandy soil will conduct at the lowest

lead content. During our trials we mixed Reagent A into each soil type, and waited the standard

time and compared the data results from each partially submerged test strip. Our hypothesis

was rejected because the sandy soil did not have the furthermost lowest level of lead, which

could be explained and shown due to the frequency of activity in the area of collection. Testing

lead in different areas can be highly significant to a community in helping to inform about

chemicals in the soil in your backyard and community gardens and create a sense of awareness

on the emanate issue. We conducted three trials of the experiment to minimize any possible

errors. To further extend and investigate this experiment, we would include different locations

where the three soil types are prominent to see what factors in our community may affect the

concentration of lead.



8 EV 626

Johnson, Riley

McCabe, Ainsley

Swanson

The Type Of Surface On The Depth Of Visibility And Erosion In Water

Abstract:

This experiment showed the effect of the different types of surfaces on how clear the water

would be and how much erosion it would have in it. We wanted to see how human

environmental interaction and natural interaction affects our water supply. In our experiment we

set up 50 containers of plants, 10 containers of living plants, 10 containers of cut down plants,

10 containers of burned down plant, 10 containers of plants with pesticides, and 10 containers

of no plants. All the plants were set up outside in the same area, we put the containers at an

angle so the water would runoff the different surfaces out of a hole and into the containers

collecting the water underneath. We thought that if we changed the type surface then the living

plants would have the highest depth of visibility and the least amount of erosion. Our data

supported our hypothesis for depth of visibility because living plants did have the highest depth

of visibility but our data did not support our hypothesis for erosion because living plants did not

have the least amount of erosion instead plants with pesticides had the least amount of erosion.



9 EV 627

Check, Isabella

Yorktown

Effect of Type of Water on the Growth of Lima Beans

Abstract:

The experiment investigated how substances present in different water sources affect lima bean

growth to determine how natural water sources impact plant life around them, and whether or

not steps are needed to protect plants by cleaning water sources. Four different planters, with

fifteen lima beans in each, were filled with Miracle Gro soil and watered with water from the tap,

Potomac River, Rock Spring Park, or neighborhood stream. The height of each plant was

measured weekly for four weeks. The mean height from highest to lowest was tap water,

neighborhood stream, Potomac River, and Rock Spring Park. The source of water had a

statistically significant effect (p=0.0000007) on the height of plants. The data supported my

hypothesis that plants receiving tap water would grow the tallest. Tap water was most effective

because it is treated and contains almost no harmful substances found in natural water sources.

The neighborhood stream was the next most effective as it contained only a few chemicals from

backyard runoff. Potomac River, although polluted, is a large body of water where harmful

chemicals can diffuse. Rock Spring Park is the most polluted due to the sheer amount of

garbage and yard runoff feeding into a relatively small stream. Some improvements could be

growing more plants, measuring more often, and using individual planters to avoid

overcrowding. Water from a wider array of sources or even artificially modified water could be

tested to see how each plant has varied needs and tolerances towards specific substances.



9 EV 628

Machion, Sydney

Wakefield

Micro-meltdown (Effect of ice melt products on algae growth)

Abstract:

Each year ice melt products are spread over roads and sidewalks; the run off can affect the

growth of algae. This experiment was conducted to show how different ice melt products affect

algae growth. The hypothesis for this experiment was that the environmentally friendly ice melt

would result in the highest number of cells per every 104 mL because its ingredients were

slightly better for the environment. To conduct this experiment a solution was made of six

different ice melts (labeled A-F) and water. The solution was then added to cultivated algae and

media. After a week, a hemocytometer was used to count the remaining living algae cells, to

find the average number of cells per 104 mL.

In conclusion the hypothesis was supported because the environmentally friendly ice melt led to

the least amount of harm to the algae, but did still harm the growth. Samples E and A were

slightly tinted with blue dye which could have affected the amount of light that the algae was

receiving. Due to this coloration the data could be skewed. Some ice melt products were not

very soluble so making a solution was somewhat difficult. If this experiment were to be repeated

more samples could be tested and different types of algae could be included. The information

gained from this experiment could help buyers pick an ice melt that would not negatively affect

the environment. This experiment could also help create new ice melt products that are much

better for the environment.



9 EV 629

Meyer, Bree

Arlington Tech

Fertilizers and Runoff

Abstract:

Pollution is a big problem in today’s world. This experiment explores how three main types of

fertilizers, that aid in soybean growing, compare to no fertilizer. The three types fertilizer used

were a phosphate based, potassium based, and nitrogen based. These nutrients are vital

components that help in the growing of healthy soybean plants. Pollution was the topic of study

because when fertilizers runoff and enter watersheds they can raise the pH levels of the water.

This makes the environment uncomfortable and even deadly for species such as fish and

aquatic plants.

Soybeans were the plant that the research was based off of because they are the crop

that the farmers of Virginia make the most amount of money off of. Learning about what it takes

in terms of fertilizer to compensate for this plant is very important. What is more important

however is learning about the impacts that the fertilizers have on the environment. Especially

runoff water that goes into major prosperous watersheds.



10 EV 630

Anzaldi, Luke

Washington-Lee

Effect of Stream Location on Ammonia Concentration and Bacterial Levels

Abstract:

This experiment sought to determine how location affects the ammonia and bacteria

concentrations in Four Mile Run stream, in order to then determine the main causes of

contamination. There were four levels of the IV: Crossman Park, Banneker Park, Madison

Manor Park, and tap water. It was hypothesized that the location with the highest concentrations

would be Banneker Park.

Tap water had the highest ammonia concentration of 0.92 mg/L, followed by Madison Manor

and Banneker with 0.29 and 0.24 mg/L, respectively. An ANOVA test shows that with a

calculated p-value of 6.73 x 10⁻²¹ for all the data, that the results were significant. The high

ammonia levels in tap water are explained by the local government’s use of chloramine (derived

from ammonium) to disinfect tap water, and the release of ammonia into water by domesticated

animal feces, very present in the neighborhoods surrounding Madison Manor Park and

Banneker Park, the second and third highest concentrations.

The data from the bacterial tests wasn’t significant. Crossman Park had the highest mean

bacterial area with 23.2 cm², followed by Madison Manor Park and Banneker Park with mean

areas of 20.4 cm² and 17.2 cm², respectively. The calculated p-value for ALL the data was 1.97

x 10⁻⁶, however, the control (all 0 cm²) jumbled the overall p-value. The calculated p-value

without the control was 0.443. Therefore, the bacterial data wasn’t significant and cannot be

used to make conclusions about the data collected.



10 EV 631

Byers, Jessica

Washington-Lee

What is the effect of different locations of the Chesapeake Bay on the

quality of the water

Abstract:

The purpose of this experiment was to determine what the effect of different locations of the

Chesapeake Bay on the quality of the water. By looking at several maps on the density of bay

grasses and locations of oyster bed, it was possible to form the hypothesis: if water from the

Chesapeake Bay is sampled and compared in different areas, then the areas of the Bay near

the bottom will have the best quality water.

A map of the entire Bay was used to determine the different sampling locations. Since the Bay

is about 322 km and since there are a total of 40 trials, each location was around 16 km apart.

At each location the temperature was taken and a water sample was gathered. The directions

were followed closely to test dissolved oxygen, nitrate, pH, phosphate, and turbidity using test

tablets. The averages indicate a slow change throughout the Bay, however the p-values indicate

that there is no significance between the the different data points, therefore the null hypothesis

was accepted. This outcome is due to the fact that the equipment used to measure the different

parameters was not precise and accurate. The values for dissolved oxygen were higher due to

the cold temperatures of winter. The values of salinity were higher than normal due to the

drought like conditions experienced by areas along the Bay. It is important that the environment

is protected and kept healthy because it eventually makes full circle with the food that we eat.



10 EV 632

Kotliarov, Antonia

Wakefield

The Effect of Different Types of Fertilizer on Algae Growth

Abstract:

The purpose of this experiment was to find out how different types of fertilizers affect algae

growth. The experiment was chosen due to the ongoing question of how bad fertilizer really is

for the environment and which type of fertilizer causes harmful algae blooms.The hypothesis for

this experiment was that chemical fertilizer causes the most algae growth as it contains large

amounts of nitrogen and phosphorus and other nutrients that cause plant growth.

The three independent variables in the experiment were chemical fertilizer, fresh horse manure

which was used as organic fertilizer and soil, which contains organic matter. In the experiment,

5 g of chemical and organic fertilizer were added to 15 g of soil, the variables were then mixed

in 300 ml of water and had 250 ml of the solution strained. 20 ml of algae in media were then

added to each solution, including the control, and then left to grow for a week, after which the

algae cells were counted. Organic fertilizer caused the most algae growth with an average of

174 algae cells, soil the second most with an average of 125.6 algae cells, chemical fertilizer

grew an average of 103.58 algae cells, while the control produced an average of 92 algae cells.

The hypothesis was proven incorrect as organic fertilizer caused the most algae growth. In

conclusion, organic fertilizer is terrible for the water environment as it causes a large amount of

algae growth and in turn leads to harmful algae blooms.



10 EV 633

Lemma, Feben

Wakefield

Weight on Durability

Abstract:

The purpose of this experiment was to find out which trash brag would hold the most weight. My

hypothesis was that the Glad trash bag would hold the most weight because there are constant

commercials advertising Glad over all the other lesser known brands. In fact, the researcher

purposely added a store brand from Target so that they could figure out if fame actually meant

quality. The researcher began by gathering three brands of trash bags, Ruffies, Glad, and Up &

Up. They held each trash bag as another person placed the maximum number of water bottles it

can hold before it ripped. Once it had ripped, the researcher weighed an empty bucket, then

transferred the water bottles onto the bucket and weighed it again. The difference between

those two weights was the maximum amount that the different bags held. The mean weight for

Ruffies trash bag was 9.88 kg. The mean weight for Up & Up was 22.88 kilograms. The mean

weight for Glad was 12.93 kilograms. This result was very surprising considering the fact that a

store brand was more durable than the famous one. For the next time, one could build a frame

to hold the trash bags so that equal pressure would be placed all around the trash bag since

holding onto two sides could cause easy breakage. This project will notify people that fame

doesn’t mean quality, and money spent on advertisement could actually be used to create a

better product.



10 EV 634

Rood, Sydney

Washington-Lee

The Effect of Different Coastal Plants on Soil Erosion in the Chesapeake

Bay

Abstract:

This experiment was designed to study the effect of different plants on soil erosion in the

Chesapeake Bay. The hypothesis was; if different types of native coastal vegetation are planted

to prevent erosion, then the smooth cordgrass (Spartina alterniflora) will lose the least amount

of soil because it is more commonly planted by the Chesapeake Bay Foundation in brackish

waters to stop erosion. Three plants were tested; smooth cordgrass (Spartina alterniflora), salt

meadow cordgrass (Spartina patens), and spike grass (Distichlis spicata), along with a control

group consisting of only soil. The three species of plants were grown in steel cloth cups before

being eroded in bucket of water. The distance the soil receded from the top of the cup was

recorded The control had the highest mean soil loss at 2.9 centimeters, while the lowest group

was the smooth cordgrass with 0.9 centimeters as the mean. The salt meadow cordgrass and

spike grass were in the middle with means of 1.2 and 1.9 centimeters. An ANOVA (analysis of

variance) test was run to determine the statistical significance of the fate, and the resulting p-

value was 3.95 x 10-12, which was less than the critical value of 0.05. Due to this, six T-tests

were performed, five of which had a p-value less than 0.05. Not all were significant, so the tests

did not help accept the research hypothesis. This study provides significant information about

erosion preventative methods in the Chesapeake Bay. Currently, soil depletion along the

coastline is resulting in



10 EV 635

Williams, Anne

T.C. Williams

The Effect of Rain Gardens of Water Quality

Abstract:

In this experiment, I tested the effect that rain gardens had on water quality. Rain gardens are a

method of water filtration that are expensive to build and maintain. I designed this project in

order to determine if the extreme cost was worth it. To determine water quality, I measured the

amount of dissolved oxygen (ppms) and the pH levels in rainwater, water collected from a rain

garden drain, and distilled water, which would serve as an example of ‘pure’ water. Dissolved

oxygen tablets were used to determine the amount of dissolved oxygen in all samples, and pH

paper was used to determine the pH. I hypothesized that the rain garden’s filtration will not

improve water quality, and it could possibly be worsened.For my results, all water sources

tested had a pH of either 7 or 8, with 7 being neutral and the optimum pH for water. The results

differed, however, with the amounts of dissolved oxygen in each substance. The rain garden

had the highest levels of dissolved oxygen at 2.6 ppms, followed by the rainwater which had 1

ppm of dissolved oxygen, and then dissolved water which had, as expected, 0 ppms of

dissolved oxygen. In the end, my conclusion was not supported by my hypothesis, because the

rain garden had lower pH levels,7, and an increased amount of dissolved oxygen compared to

the rain water.



11 EV 636

Brodowski, Skylar

Washington-Lee

Long-term and short-term effects of NASA rocket launches on groundwater

contamination around Virginia's Eastern Shore

Abstract:

Ammonium perchlorate is a commonly used solid fuel oxidizer used in rockets. Perchlorate

contamination is a cause of concern because perchlorate can negatively impact the functioning

of the body. The experiment is the second part of a two-year study to analyze water

contamination around the Wallops Flight Facility, a NASA owned rocket launching facility. The

purpose of this experiment is to analyze how NASA’s rocket launches have affected the

groundwater in, and surrounding, Accomack County, Virginia. The experiment studies the long

and short-term effects of the rocket launches by analyzing samples before and after the 2016

ANTARES 230 launch. The hypothesis of the experiment is that if groundwater samples are

taken before and after the 2016 ANTARES 230 launch, all samples will contain traces of

perchlorate, and samples taken after the launch will have higher levels of contaminants.

Samples were collected on three separate dates; 10/8, 10/22, 10/29. A total of 60 samples were

collected, the samples were taken within a 17 km radius from the NASA facility. Samples were

filtered and tested using the high performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry

method. The results of the study found perchlorate, but the intensities of perchlorate did not

correlate to the sample collection date, thus rejecting the initial hypothesis. Five ions were

observed in the samples (80, 92, 103, 138, 337 m/z); one of which was most likely perchlorate.



11 EV 637

Cooper, Sachi

Washington-Lee

The Effect of Water Hyacinth Treatment of the Removal of Heavy Metals

from Water and the Re-Uptake of Metals for Reuse Using Carbonate

Solutions

Abstract:

Copper and nickel contamination of water can cause a range of health problems, including liver

damage and death. Rhizofiltration is the removal of contaminants from water using live roots of

plants. Water hyacinth plants have been found effective in many studies, including a previous

experiment by the scientist. Carbonate solutions can bond with heavy metals and remove them

from the roots of the plant. The hypothesis was that water hyacinth would remove more nickel

than copper from the solution, and that potassium carbonate and sodium carbonate would

remove the same amount of metals from the plant roots. Solutions were made, one with copper,

one with nickel, one with both, one with K2CO3, and one with Na2CO3 . Six water hyacinth

plants separately treated the metal solutions for 72 hours, and were then placed in the

carbonate solutions for 72 hours. The samples were tested using an inductively coupled plasma

optical emission spectrometer at American University.

Water hyacinth was found to remove two-thirds of the original amounts of both copper and

nickel, about 200 ppm. The carbonate solutions extracted a trace amount of metals, about 2

ppm. Paired t-tests revealed that there was no significant difference between water hyacinth’s

ability to remove copper or nickel from water, rejecting the first hypothesis. It can be concluded

that water hyacinth can effectively remove copper and nickel from water. It cannot be concluded

that carbonate solutions can extract metals. This is significant because it displays that there are

effective and cheap methods of water



11 EV 638

Gonzalez, Alondra

Washington-Lee

Bio Water: The use of Aloe Vera & Cactus plant mucilage to eliminate

pollutants in water.

Abstract:

There is an alarming rate of drought and shortage of consumable fresh water in the world and

there is no natural, safe and viable way to treat contaminated water supplies in order to make

them safe for human and animal consumption. To do this project collect samples a water source

and separate each into 12, 16-ounce mason jars. Collect 3 leaves of Opuntia ficus-indica and 1

leaf of aloe vera. Set to a boil in a pot on a stove. Leave pot to cool and collect mucilage. Use

H2O Ok Drinking Water Analysis Kits to test each sample. Add mucilage to the other samples

and leave to sit over time period designated (10-60 minutes). Use Water Analysis kit to test

sample’s pH, Total Chlorine, Total Hardness, Total Alkalinity, Nitrite and Nitrate. Compare each

data set to chart provided with Analysis kit determine results. The cactus mucilage lowered

levels of 6 commonly tested water quality indicators as well as the aloe vera mucilage but at a

much lower significant rate. The data from the research and testing included that adding the

mucilage to the water samples had a positive effect in lowering potentially harmful elements in

the water with the cactus and at a lower rate for the aloe vera. It also produced a clumping

effect of sediment and other foreign objects in the water with the cactus. In conclusion, the

cactus outperformed the aloe Vera overall and both met the standards of cleansing for safe

drinking.



11 EV 639

Sidhu, Alex

Yorktown

The Effect of Titanium Dioxide Paste as a Neutralizer of NOx Gases on

Different Surfaces

Abstract:

The purposes of this experiment included proving that common industrial materials can be

coated with Titanium Dioxide paste to reduce the effect of greenhouse gas emissions and

determining whether surface type has any effect on the neutralization of NOx gases. My

experiment built upon the University of California Riverside’s project to neutralize NOx gases

with Titanium Dioxide paste I accomplished this by constructing an atmospheric chamber,

creating NOx gases, and making a Titanium Dioxide paste to coat wood, tile, and concrete

surfaces. Under a fume hood, I placed the coated surfaces in the chamber individually,

resealing the container after each trial, and proceeded to pump in NOx gases. I used UV lights

to start the reaction and recorded the concentration of NO and NO2 gases every five minutes

for a total of nine ten-minute trials. My results showed that the concentration of NOx gases

dropped on each trial with all surfaces. Although, there was evidence in my data that concrete

may have a positive effect on NOx neutralization, my statistical analysis indicated that surface

type has no effect on the optimization of Titanium Dioxide. Further research suggestions

include: continuous data gathering; longer trials; additional trials; a pressure-sealed

atmospheric chamber; and a consistent initial NOx gas concentration. This research is

important because the application of TiO2 paste to common industrial surfaces (the outside of

buildings) especially in urban areas, could effectively reduce the concentration of air pollutants,

allowing for greater public and environmental health.


(MC) MATHEMATICS AND COMPUTER SCIENCE

7 MC 700

Rajaputra, Aryaman

Hammond

QR Code Unique Identification system for FC Hammond

Abstract:

A QR code system which can be used in schools for attendance, lunch, library, computer

access, security is presented. Teachers can check and verify the attendance from QR code

scan database, and office personnel can issue tardy passes. QR code also makes it easier to

identify visitors, staff and teachers, teacher and staff can enter the building using their unique

QR code access. The door will only open when QR code is scanned, using QR code students

can log on to a computer. In the Cafeteria, a QR code scanner can be used instead of the 5 digit

key, to identify the student, order and billing. QR code can be used to issue and organize books

in the library. Finally, bus riders can have a unique ID, which can be easily verified by the driver.

This system can also be used for event managing, car code, health care/patient management

and many others.



8 MC 701

Ahmad, Sameen

Kenmore

The effect of different search engines on results

Abstract:

Researchers have found that numbers of factors affect the results displayed on web engines.

The experiment was conducted to detect results from different search engines. The purpose of

this experiment was to see the difference in results after searching from different search

engines. It was hypothesized that if the same questions were searched on different search

engines, then Google’s results would vary from Yahoo’s and Bing’s results. In this experiment 3

different questions were searched on 3 different web engines. Then, the results were compared

and graphed. The results showed the type of question that was asked determined the number

and type of results. Questions that were asked frequently yielded exact answers. Google gave

the most accurate results compared to Yahoo and Bing. The questions that were very specific

gave fewer results. The results changed depending upon the question asked. The results from

the different search engines were not placed in the same order as the other web engines placed

them. The factors that affect the results are the type of device used for the search (desktop,

laptop, phone, tablet), the personal search history, whether the searcher is logged into a Google

Account while searching, the geographic location, what type of browser is being used, the

number of Google-generated ads on the page and what type of search is being done. The

biggest factor was the algorithm of the web engines. Thus, the hypotheses was accepted.



8 MC 702

Bloome, Casey

Swanson

Fractals: Complex Mathematics Meets Graphic Design

Abstract:

My experiment is to generate 176 Julia sets and see if there is a correlation between the

connectedness of a Julia set with c and the Mandelbrot set for that point, c. I am doing this

because I think the Mandelbrot set and Julia sets are intriguing, and also fractals have generate

complex, intricate images that could be applied in the field of graphic design.

I generated 176 Julia sets on a fractal generating website, all with different c’s, and analysed

whether or not all the point on the Julia set were connected, and if this had any correlation with

points on the Mandelbrot set.

My hypothesis was that there would be some correlation between the points on the Mandelbrot

set and points with fully connected Julia sets. My hypothesis was supported by my data,

because there was a strong correlation between points on the Mandelbrot set and points in the

Julia set. In fact, there were no points on the Mandelbrot set that did not have fully connected

Julia sets, and vice versa.



8 MC 703

Burjas, Karam

Hammond

Blocking a Wifi Signal

Abstract:

The purpose of this experiment was to determine what types of household materials affect the

connectivity of a WiFi signal. WiFi signal can be measured in three ways; upload speed (Mbps) ,

download speed (Mbps), and ping (ms). The experiment was measured through a WiFi signal

strength app (SpeedTest). I took measurements of the original units and then took

measurements after materials were used to block the WiFi router. I sat in the same place each

time whilst taking measurements in order to get the most reliable results. I conducted 3 trials for

each material and averaged those results to get the data shown on my graphs. I was surprised

to find that my experiment was unsuccessful in the sense that my WiFi connectivity was

unaffected by any of the 3 materials used. The download, upload speed and ping wasn’t

changed by any of the materials. I concluded that you would need much stronger and more

conductive materials in order to alter a WiFi connection in any way. I applied this to the real

world because when there’s a little rain/wind, WiFi and electricity in general aren’t usually

affected by it. But, it would take a hurricane or a tornado in order for something to happen.

Finally, despite the experiment technically being unsuccessful, it was a success in a way

because it showed me that something else is causing my WiFi to be slow thus, allowing me to

still be on the hunt for what’s actually blocking my WiFi connection.



8 MC 704

Tarter, Matthew


Stella! Can you hear me?

Abstract:

These days almost every major function of society is controlled by computers, but can these

computers even understand the humans they serve? This project looks at the effects of accents

on the accuracy of voice recognition engines. In order to test these accents, audio clips of the

same phrase read by people with different accents was taken from George Mason University’s

accent archive. Each audio clip was played four times to each of three voice recognition

engines, which included Amazon’s “Alexa,” Google’s “Ok Google,” and Apple’s “Siri.” The

accuracy was then determined by calculating percentage of correctly recognized characters

versus the total number of read characters. The hypothesis was that the less common the

accent, the less accurate the voice recognition engines would be because it wouldn’t be cost

effective to improve the software to understand these accents. In addition to this, the hypothesis

stated that accents from languages that are the most different from the English language will

also have lower accuracy, as pronunciation of characters will differ more so than other accents.

The data supported this hypothesis because the least common accents ended up being the

least accurate. For instance, the Serbian accent achieved an accuracy of 63% on “Siri,” while

the American English accent achieved an accuracy of 100%. The Serbian language has an

estimated 9.2-10.2 million native speakers, while America English alone contains an estimated

326 million speakers. In this case, Thai-accented speakers are out of luck.



9 MC 705

Cunningham, Caroline

Washington-Lee

The Effect of One Section of the Influenza Vaccine's Accuracy on the

Overall Vaccine Effectiveness

Abstract:

The relationship between one section of an influenza vaccine strains' effectiveness and the

overall vaccine effectiveness was studied. Each influenza vaccine contains strains from three

sections: Influenza A H1N1, Influenza A H3N2, and Influenza B. The hypothesis was that if the

section of influenza strains was changed, then the overall vaccine effectiveness would be

greatest when either of the Influenza A sections were the most accurate. For each influenza

season studied, the percentage of proteins in common for the corresponding influenza strains

between the virus and vaccine was found using the Basic Local Alignment Search Tool

(BLAST). Data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) on the percentage

of specimens infected with each section of the influenza virus was subtracted from the BLAST

percentage previously calculated; a greater absolute value of the result indicated a more

effective vaccine. Contrary to the hypothesis, Influenza B was the most influential influenza

section, with the highest mean, 68.635%, and lowest standard deviation, 13.001, of the

differences. The null hypothesis was rejected because an ANOVA test yielded a p-value of

0.032, which is less than the critical value of 0.05. The objective of this experiment was met,

because the most influential section for an influenza vaccine was identified. This research has

real-world applications, as it is imperative that the influenza vaccines are as accurate as

possible to protect the public, and it shows the need for consistency when choosing the

Influenza A strains, which have a significantly greater standard deviation.



9 MC 706

Day, David

Yorktown

Computing the Algorithmic 3D Optical Properties of Wave Reflections in a

Flood Effect Rendered on an Image

Abstract:

Water is seldom studied optically with regard to how it would appear before an observer. The

purpose of this project is to examine, formulate, and compute the optical properties of water as

would be seen through one’s own eyes or through a camera. First, the angle-of-view formula

was applied to help calculate the dimensions of objects in a photograph. These measurements

were then used to ascertain the angle an object’s mirror image takes up. Next, Snell’s law was

modified to compute the angles of refraction from objects underneath the water. Fresnel’s

equation, when coupled with the light attenuation of water equation, determined the intensity of

both transmitted and reflected light. Using Rayleigh Scattering Theory, the change in color of

the reflected image was calculated. To model a water wave, the wave equation was derived,

using calculus, as a sine wave. The amount of image expansion in a reflection given a water

wave along with the maximum angle of expansion was then formulated. Finally, all the formulae

used were compiled into an algorithm and written as a Java program.

In conclusion, the optical properties of bodies of water were clearly collated through this project,

and many new and vital equations were formulated. Applying the algorithm discovered in this

project, artists may now draw water with better precision. Additionally, physics simulations and

video games may now depict water realistically. Thus, future projects could use these results to

create more accurate Computer Generated Imagery for the art and entertainment industries.



9 MC 707

Doney, Brendan

T.C. Williams

Code Conversion

Abstract:

Programming languages each have their own advantages and disadvantages (Reghunadh &

Jain, 2011, p. 2). This makes engineering computer science systems difficult, and a lot of

consideration must go into selecting the programming language that will best fit a project, before

the project even starts (Britton, Chris). The main goal of my project is to remove the need for

this type of consideration, by easily and quickly converting files of computer code, called scripts,

between programming languages. The program that I am engineering accomplishes this using a

system that combines a series of files, or “libraries,” which contain information about how to

convert the scripts, and “variable extraction,” which uses context clues in the inputted script to

find information needed for the conversion process. During testing, tools built into my program

recorded the time it took to convert the given scripts, or “execute”. These execution times

indicated that my program is viable for use on a larger scale, due to the linear trend of the data.

Although the system in use can be improved, the system in use functions, and outputs working

scripts in whatever language needed, as long as it has the corresponding library files.



10 MC 708

Bendon, Isaac

Washington-Lee

What is the effect of race on disciplinary action in school

Abstract:

This experiment was designed to provide insight into the idea of racial bias and how racial bias

effects discipline. The hypothesis was: if the amount of high school suspensions in Arlington

County is compared to the overall population in high schools, then people of color will have a

disproportionate amount of suspensions to the overall percentage of blacks in the schools. Four

different races White, Black Hispanic and Asian were analyzed for total suspensions and

percentage of suspensions compared to the total population. The White and Asian groups were

much lower, with average percentages compared to the total population of 1.7 and 1.6 percent

respectively while Hispanic and Black were much higher at 4.1 and 7.4 respectively. An

ANOVA (analysis of variance) test was run to determine the statistical significance of the data,

and the resulting p-value was o.oo1, which was less than the critical value, 0.05. Due to this, it

was determined that the null hypothesis could be rejected and there was a significant difference

between the four groups. This suggests that while there is a greater number of Blacks

suspended then other races there are too many unaccounted for circumstances to firmly

conclude any evidence of racial bias.



10 MC 709

Billera, Julia

Washington-Lee

The Effect of Aspect Ratio of Ellipsoids on Packing Density in Random

Arrangements

Abstract:

This experiment was an investigation of packing density involving ellipsoids of varying aspect

ratios in randomly jammed arrangements. The hypothesis of the experiment stated that if the

ellipsoid samples tested were general ellipsoids, the packing density would be greatest.

Spheroid ellipsoids and spheres were also tested. First, measurements were taken to calculate

the average volume of a single general ellipsoid, spheroid ellipsoid, or sphere. Then, each

group of samples was poured into a graduated cylinder to fill about two hundred twenty times

the volume of one sample. The samples in the graduated cylinder were counted. The packing

fraction was calculated by multiplying the sum of the samples in the cylinder by the volume of a

single sample, then dividing that volume out of the volume of the cylinder that was filled.

Spherical ellipsoids and spheroid ellipsoids were found to have packing densities of about

52.00% and 55.01%, respectively. The tri-axial ellipsoids had the highest packing fraction at

around 59.65%, although this value is still much lower than the literature would estimate. A 2004

paper reported that ellipsoids can be packed as densely as 74% of space filled. Current

literature, however, tends to reference maximally random jammed (MRJ) packings, while this

experiment used less mathematically precise random closing packing states. Ideally, this

experiment could use computer models of MRJ packings, but the present procedure still yielded

results in agreement with the current literature: general ellipsoids have a greater packing density

than spheroid ellipsoids or spheres.



10 MC 710

Meredith, Kate

H-B Woodlawn

The Effect of the Stock Inputs on the Accuracy of the Prediction

Abstract:

The stock market can be very risky, but if there was always a way to know what to invest in,

then the stock market would be a great, easy way to make money. A neural network is a great

way to harness the potential of the stock market. It can be used for various things, including

learning trends and prediction. The purpose of the experiment was to determine what stock

inputs produce the most accurate S&P500 stock market price prediction. The hypothesis was if

the stock inputs include more technology companies, then the total mean squared error of the

neural network’s prediction will decrease because technology has a large impact on the stock

market. The neural network has a three layer feed-forward configuration and a learning rate of

0.4. Also, it has a max error of 0.01 and a max iteration of 6000. It is still a work in progress,

however, based on a previous experiment the learning rate and max iterations will provide a

well controlled environment for testing the stock inputs. Preliminary data suggests that the

hypothesis might be correct.


V

10 MC 711

Williams, Clare

T.C. Williams

Benford's Law: Number One Rule

Abstract:

The purpose of this experiment was to prove Benford’s Law could be applied to the stock

market. Benford’s Law, or often called the “Number One Rule” is a statistical law stating that in a

randomized set of data, the majority of the numbers within the set will start with lower numbers.

Using the Benford’s Law equation, the Law states roughly 30% of the data will start with the digit

one, and 18% of the data will start with two, and even less of a percent will the data will start

with three, and so on. This was tested using two different yearly sets of Dow Jones closing-

price data sets; one set from 2008-2009, the year of a stock market crash, and a set from 2011-

2012. Overall, the hypothesis was proven correct; Benford’s Law can be applied to the stock

market because the majority of the two data sets started with the number one, despite the crash

in 2008, the majority of the numbers started with the number one. However, the data sets did

not follow the exact percentage pattern of Benford’s Law, for instance 100% of the closing price

numbers in the 2011-2012 set started with one.

Hence, the percentage pattern in Benford’s Law is merely an outline for data trends.

Additionally, in this project I found fraud can be detected in the stock market using this law

because numbers that are false are often not-randomized. Hence, they will not follow the

pattern established by Benford’s Law because this law



10 MC 712

Williams, Malik

Washington-Lee

The Effect of Antivirus Detection Methods on the Number of Viruses

Detected

Abstract:

The purpose of this experiment was to test the effectiveness of the signature, dynamic

signature, heuristic, and skeleton detection methods against computer viruses. The signature

detection method is a common way of detecting viruses by reading the viruses’ string of code.

Dynamic signature detection searches for patterns to determine if a program is malicious.

Heuristics detect new malware based on similar features of other viruses. Skeleton removes

code and gaps that do not belong to viruses. The hypothesis was if the heuristic detection

method was used, then most viruses will be removed because heuristic detection can detect

unknown viruses. The null hypothesis stated if the heuristic detection method was used, then

most viruses will not be removed.Ten trials were conducted per antivirus scanner. A virtual

machine was downloaded and copied for each trial. Viruses were then released onto the virtual

machine. Most viruses did not work and had to be replaced. A single antivirus scanned the

computer and reported threats found. The data from the antivirus were recorded onto a

Microsoft Excel spreadsheet after each trial. The control, the signature detection method,

detected most viruses on average. The skeleton detection method found some viruses.

Heuristic and dynamic signature did not detect any. The null hypothesis was rejected. However,

the hypothesis cannot be accepted. Because of the power of malicious programs to do harm,

citizens, businesses and governments rely on antivirus that use a variety of techniques to stop

malware. It is important to know which techniques are most effective.



10 MC 713

Shala, Arti

Glogowski, Jakub

Wakefield

The Effect of Material Obstructions on Wi-Fi Quality

Abstract:

Homeowners and businesses around the world rely on a wireless internet connection to keep

their guests happy, but constantly struggle with slow speeds and unstable connection. The goal

of this project was to find the effect of different material obstructions on the quality of Wi-Fi. A

standard Wi-Fi router was placed into 5 different enclosures: styrofoam, wood, aluminum, glass,

and cardboard. Then, using the same device at a constant distance of 6 feet, the router was

tested for upload speed, download speed, and ping. The results confirmed the hypothesis that

glass would have the least significant effect on Wi-Fi quality, since glass and the control had the

exact same average ping, and differences in upload and download speed at tenths of a

megabyte a second; however, aluminum gave a result that was unforeseen: when aluminum

was placed around the router, the upload and download speeds were boosted by about a

megabyte a second on average, and the ping was reduced by almost one millisecond, which is

a good thing. The experiment proved that traditional shelving for Wi-Fi routers like wood are not

effective, as they adversely affect the performance of the network, and practical alternative

solutions in order to see a significant boost in network performance include glass shelving or

leaving the router out in the open.



11 MC 714

Fogelson, Alexander

Yorktown

An Investigation into Machine Learning of Algorithms for the Rubik’s Cube

Abstract:

The goal of this investigation was to conceptualize and then create a program that would be

able to manipulate a computer model of the Rubik’s cube and discover algorithms in an

increasingly efficient way by recognizing patterns from prior discoveries. The first part was

achieved by creating a class structure for the faces of the cube and inputting the relationship

that each faces’ corners and edges had to each other. This was done using the stickers’ colors

instead of the cube’s pieces to avoid having to specify the orientation of each piece. Next, an

algorithm was coded to check a variety of move permutations with the restriction that any

progress in solving the cube remained unaffected. After successfully finishing this, the program

was taught to mark key features of the discovered cube algorithms that it would later use to

improve the efficiency of finding more algorithms. These features included length, primary

moves, and the net ratio of vertical and horizontal rotations. As the machine learned, the

number of tries which it took to complete the algorithm decreased noticeably. Unfortunately, this

efficiency wasn’t great enough to allow the program to discover some second layer and third

layer algorithms, because these generally consist of highly specific, long move sequences

which take an immense amount of time to permute through. I plan to achieve a better program

which can return a full solution to the cube in a reasonable amount of time using additional key

features of algorithms and more efficient permutation code.



11 MC 715

Mark, Ryan

Yorktown

A Smartphone Application that Learns, Detects and Analyzes Raman

Backscattering to Both Distinguish Between and Identify Substances Based

on Their Chemical Composition

Abstract:

Currently, one of the best ways to distinguish between different cells or substances is through

Raman spectroscopy. Raman spectroscopy is based on the concept that when infrared light is

inelastically backscattered from a substance, the frequency of that backscattered light can be

used like a fingerprint to distinguish between substances. This project’s purpose was to (1) write

an application that uses a smartphone’s CCD camera as a photon detector to detect and

measure Raman backscattering from a substance, then uses that data to learn and identify the

unique frequency associated with that substance; (2) use standard deviation analysis and a

constantly updating dual key dictionary to learn and store Raman backscattering data; and (3)

identify the optimal infrared exposure time for measuring Raman backscattering from a sample.

If successful, the technology tested by this experiment could provide quick, inexpensive, and

easy to use medical diagnostics throughout the world. First, a box was constructed into which a

smartphone could be inserted and irradiated pictures could be taken. An application was then

written which processed the pictures and could learn the unique data associated with a sample

type. A series of time tests were conducted to obtain the optimal exposure time for samples.

Over 250 trials were then conducted and the Raman fingerprint for 25 different substances were

categorized and learned by the application. Multi factorial ANOVA and 300 Tukey tests were

performed. These statistical tests verified that the application could detect and identify

substances with 97% accuracy.


(ME) MEDICAL AND HEALTH SCIENCES

7 ME 800

Herrity, Rachel

Jefferson

The Effect of Eye Color on Vision

Abstract:

My topic of choice was the affect of eye color on vision. I chose this topic because it seemed

like a fun and new topic that would be challenging. My hypothesis was “If middle school

students are tested on their vision based on the color of their eye, then scores will be

manipulated by color of eye”. In my project I used an eye chart to test how far different middle

schoolers based on their eye colors (blue, hazel, and brown) can see in their left eye (with a

paper over the right eye) 15 feet away from the chart on a scale from 1 (poor) to 7 (excellent). I

tested 30 people, 10 for each of the three eye colors tested. Then I found the mean of each eye

color’s data. My results showed that middle schoolers with blue eyes could see the farthest (6.5

average), following by hazel eyes (5.7 average), then brown eyes (5.1 average). I learned that

eye color does slightly affect vision.



8 ME 801

Barua, Shushantika

Kenmore

The Effect of Stimulating Different Senses on Memory - Smell vs. Taste

Abstract:

Senses of smell and taste have been proven to be powerful memory enhancers. The purpose of

this experiment was to study the effect of stimulating the sense of smell and taste on memory.

The hypothesis was that stimulating the sense of taste would have the greatest effect on

enhancing memory. To test the theory, three groups were assessed. Group A was the control.

Group B was taste. For Group B mint chewing gum was used. Group C was smell. For Group C

a strong perfume was used. Each group was shown a paper with various images and were

asked to memorize as many objects as possible. The participants were given five minutes to

memorize thirteen images. After the five minutes, participants took a five minute break to ensure

their memories would not go to their short term memory. They were then given ten minutes to

write down as many items from the sheet they could recall. In Group A, participants studied the

paper, took a five minute break, and then wrote down the images memorized with no

altercations. Group B consisted of participants that chewed gum while studying and writing

down their memorized items. Group C consisted of participants that studied in the vicinity of a

scented perfume and then wafted the same perfume while writing down their images

memorized. The number of images written down were measured. In this experiment, three trials

were committed.



8 ME 802

Christoffer, Ava

Williamsburg

The Effect of Different Sports on Lung Capacity (Before and After a

Season)

Abstract:

An experiment was conducted to show the relationship between different sports and lung

capacity. The reason why this experiment was performed was to investigate the impact of

athletics on the cardiorespiratory system. The chief scientist for this study has an interest in the

field of medicine and is also an active athlete. It was hypothesized that if a particular sport has a

more intense stress on the cardiovascular and respiratory systems, then the lung capacity in

those playing that sport will be greater. In addition, the most physically demanding sports were

expected to increase the lung capacity of participants throughout the season the most. Data

analysis revealed that the hypothesis of the experiment was proven true; more strenuous

exercise did result in greater lung capacity. The soccer players, the most physically demanding

sport, had the largest average lung capacity of 2106.9 cm3 at the start of the season and

2307.5 cm3 later in the season.



8 ME 803

Dugan, Casey

George Washington

How Many Calories are in your Food

Abstract:

Overview: Calories are measures of energy and everyone needs them.

Many people, these days are suffering from obesity. There are many reasons why this is

occurring, but one of the main reasons is, they don’t understand how unhealthy the food they

are eating is. Not everyone reads the nutrition labels on food and still they might not understand

just how many calories per meal they are consuming. They also don’t know how many calories

they need in one day. I am testing how many calories are in certain everyday foods. I am using

popcorn, black olives, and salted peanuts. I burned these foods using a calorimeter then putting

my data into an equation. My hypothesis is ‘if I burn three different foods then the black olive will

have the highest calorie level because black olives are denser than the other two foods.’ I have

proven this statement correct. This project is related to physics because I am transferring stored

energy into chemical energy through burning the foods in which the potential energy is stored.

My hypothesis was proven correct because the black olives had the highest calorie level.



8 ME 804

Kerbel

, Natalie

Swanson

Formation and Dissipation of Blood Clots

Abstract:

This experiment was conducted to show the effect of anticoagulant on the coagulation process

in relation to blood clots. The coagulated substance would represent the forming blood clot and

the anticoagulant would represent the medicine to stop its formation. The levels of the

independent variable where 0% anticoagulant, 1% anticoagulant, 1.5% anticoagulant, 2%

anticoagulant, and 3% anticoagulant. Since actual blood could not be used 3 chemicals, Sodium

Citrate, Sodium Alginate, and Calcium Chloride, were used to simulate a forming blood clot.

Sodium Alginate and Calcium Chloride were utilized to form the “blood clot” and different

amounts of Sodium Citrate, the anticoagulant, was used to test how medicine would stop a

blood clot from forming. The hypothesis was the less anticoagulant added the larger and more

solid the coagulated substance would be. In the results the level with the least anticoagulant

provided the largest coagulated substance, however the level 3% anticoagulant did not yield a

jelly ball at all. This was not predicted thus proving the hypothesis only partially correct.



8 ME 805

Lambert, Sarah


Saving Lives for Pennies: Determining the Optimal Thickness of

Polybatting for Filtering VOCs Produced by a Biomass Fire

Abstract:

Many poor women in developing countries face respiratory morbidities caused by exposure to

volatile organic compounds (VOCs) given off by biomass fires. Last year, I determined that

inexpensive polybatting (polyester fibers used as stuffing in cheap quilts) provided almost as

much protection as a certified air mask. The purpose of this year’s experiment was to determine

the optimal thickness of polybatting for filtering VOCs produced by a biomass fire. Smoke from a

wood fire was passed through various thicknesses of polyatting and the amount of VOCs that

made it through the filter was measured by an air monitor. The hypothesis was that as the

thickness of polybatting increased, the VOC level decrease in a linear relationship until it

reached the level of VOCs present in the environment, because as the polybatting material

increased there would be more material for the VOCs molecules to bond to. The results only

partially supported the hypothesis. The data indicated that the thicker polybatting resulted in

lower VOC levels; however, the relationship appears to be exponential, probably a Pareto Type

1 (“Survival”) Distribution. This was likely because lower levels of VOCs were passing through

each additional layer of polybatting. The effectiveness leveled off at a little less than 3mg/m3,

twice the environmental level, possibly because the polybatting had little effect on some of the

VOC molecules. Based on a subjective evaluation of the ease of use of the polybatting, the

optimal thickness appears to be between 2-3mg/m3.



8 ME 806

Weaver, Emma

Kenmore

The Effect of Type of Leap on Vertical Jump

Abstract:

The purpose of my experiment was to measure vertical leap jump. I chose this experiment to

find the highest jump. My hypothesis was the jump with the strongest push off, double attitude,

would get my participants the highest.

Jump Styles:

Jump 1: Tombe pas de bourrée glissade sodesha. This jump begins with a fall from one leg to

another into a back, front, back step. Then a small jump that links your pas de bourrée to your

leap, that opens your legs in midair but closes in fifth position. The jump is a split leap with your

body facing your front leg.

Jump 2: 2 chaînés turns. This jump starts with quick 360 degree turns on two feet into a calypso

jump. A jump facing your audience with your front leg straight and your back leg bent.

Jump 3: Step leap.

Jump 4: Step, step double attitude jump where both legs in the jump are bent.

I measured these jumps by a large piece of white paper with measurements on it. I measured

from the waist. I took video of the waist and replayed it in slow motion to get the peak of the

jump. From my experiment I figured out that the tombe pas de bourrée glissade sodesha got my

participants the highest. Only test subjects 1 and 5 had double attitude as their highest jump. My

hypothesis was rejected. In conclusion, the tombe pas de bourrée glissade sodesha was the

highest. It has the most momentum and push-off.



8 ME 807

Young, Shaw


The Effect of a Video’s Varying Level of Intensity on a Middle School

Students’ Heart Rate and Blood Pressure

Abstract:

One in three adults in the United States suffer from hypertension, which increases the risk of

heart disease and stroke. Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States,

accounting for approximately one quarter of all deaths. The ubiquitous availability of over-

stimulating images in the media and entertainment may pose risks for hypertension and heart

disease sufferers. The goal of the project was to investigate the effect of varying levels of

intensity on heart rate and blood pressure. It was hypothesized that when a participant watched

an intense video, the participants heart rate and blood pressure would increase. To test the

hypothesis, the researcher exposed ten 7th and 8th grade middle school students to three

videos of varying levels of intensity. While each video was playing, the researcher recorded the

participants’ heart rate and blood pressure. The results showed that viewing the intense video

resulted in a pronounced increase in heart rate and a minuscule increase in systolic and

diastolic blood pressure. This supports the hypothesis that intense video watching can have a

negative effect on heart rate and blood pressure. This investigation contributes to enabling

healthier lifestyle choices for those who suffer from hypertension and heart disease.



8 ME 808

Schroeher, Ryan

Schroeher, Ethan

Kenmore

The Effect of Different Hamstring Stretches On Hamstring Flexibility

Abstract:

The hamstring is an important muscle that crosses through the hip and knee joints on the

backside of the upper leg. There are many stretches a person can perform to improve the

flexibility of the hamstring. The hypothesis states that if students perform a sit and reach test,

then a seated or standing hamstring stretch, the students sir and reach score will improve from

the prior sit and reach test. Additionally, the seated hamstring stretch will show more

improvement than the standing hamstring stretch. The purpose for this experiment is to learn

whether hamstring stretching improves flexibility, and if so, which type of hamstring stretch is

more effective and preferred by subjects, seated or standing.The results of this experiment

could be applicable to daily functional living and athletics.



9 ME 809

Alleyne, Kristen

Washington-Lee

The Effect of pH on Pepsin and Hydrochloric Acid's Ability to Digest

Proteins in Albumin

Abstract:

The digestive system contains tough enzymes designed to uncover abundant treats and break

them into small pieces. Pepsin is an important enzyme in the stomach which is tasked with

digesting protein. Unfortunately, pepsin cannot activate without hydrochloric acid. pH

imbalances may result which can ultimately lead to peptic ulcers and disorders of the upper

gastrointestinal tract. The purpose of this experiment was to investigate the effect of different pH

levels on pepsin and hydrochloric acid’s ability to digest proteins in albumin. In this experiment

four sets of 10 test tubes were labeled. The contents of one hcl pepsin capsule were added to

each test tube. The first set of test tubes received 15 ml of the pH 1.25 solution. The second

received 15 ml of the pH 1.5 solution, set three received pH 1.75 and set four received pH 2.

One half a gram of albumin powder was added to each test tube. The solutions were mixed and

placed in a laboratory incubator at 98.6°F. Neo Science protein strips tested the amount of

protein remaining in the solutions. pH 1.25 digested all of the proteins its test tubes. pH 1.5 was

second with an average of 0.03g/l of protein remaining. pH 1.75 had an average of 0.09g/l of

protein remaining and pH 2 digested the least protein with an average of 0.21g/l remaining. This

experiment has the potential to springboard greater research in gastrointestinal medicine. It can

also provide knowledge for individuals taking care of pH imbalances at home.



9 ME 810

Hall, Margaret

Yorktown

The Effect of Exercise Duration on Blood Glucose

Abstract:

I am testing the effect exercise has on blood glucose. I am doing this because I have Type 1

diabetes and this will help me keep better control over my blood sugars and know how this

affects my body. This experiment is related to medicine. It also shows how the body reacts with

certain things in different variations. To perform this experiment I got up in the morning on 9

different days and ran. I would run for 10, 20, or 30 minutes. Before this I would test my blood

sugar, and 15 minutes after my run I would test again. For the control I woke up, tested, and

then tested again. The blood sugars were recorded and then I found the difference in the initial

test and the altered one. I did ANOVA test to look at the statistics and represent my data. I

found that with each addition to the time running, my blood glucose change rate decreased but

my blood sugar was always going up. My p value was <000.1. My blood sugar acted this way

because while I was running there was adrenaline in me and this causes blood glucose to spike.

I only waited 15 minutes after my run to test so the adrenaline had not settled and my blood

sugar had still risen. To improve and expand this experiment you could use more people to test

and also record what the blood sugars were like throughout the day.



9 ME 811

Rotker, Evan

Yorktown

The Effect of Gatorade Powder Concentration on Tooth Decay

Abstract:

My experiment was designed to test how sugareffects tooth health and decay. This relates to

multiple branches of science including medicine and health but also chemistry. The tooth decay

that did occur was based off of a chemical reaction. My experiment was carried out by placing

five shark teeth in different concentrations of Gatorade powder dissolved in water. Before

placement in the solutions, each tooth was weighed. They were placed in the drinks, sat for a

month, then taken out, dried, and reweighed. The data was quantitative and based on

percentage due to the varying beginning weights of the teeth. Other than means, no statistical

data was ran on the teeth. Due to the nature of the experiment, there wasn’t enough specific

variation per amount of liquid to run the suggested ANOVA test or p-value.

All teeth with any capacity of sugar experienced some level of decay. Logically and scientifically,

the more sugar in the drink, the more decay occurred. I found that sugar does contribute directly

to decay. Technically it’s bacteria that causes the actual decaying. However, these bacteria

need sugar to eat and survive. Sugars fed bacteria in these cups but they live in a greater

concentration in the mouth than in these drinks, so the harm would be greater in a true human

environment rather than a simulation. To improve the experiment, the experimenter should split

up the teeth in each cup to generate more specific data and give the option to run more stats.



9 ME 812

Waldman, Eli

Yorktown

The Role of Simulated Dietary Fat on the Effectiveness of Pancreatic and

Biliary Stents

Abstract:

The purpose of this experiment was to determine how dietary fat affects the speed with which

fluid flows through pancreatic and biliary stents in order to provide information on dietary

management for patients with implanted stents. When a person is diagnosed with narrow or

clogged pancreatic or biliary ducts, a doctor will surgically implant a stent to hold open the

passageway to permit bile and pancreatic fluids to drain normally. While a person has the stent

in place, the normal protocol is for the patient to limit dietary fat intake, which can be extremely

challenging for patients.

The hypothesis of this experiment was that the greater the level of simulated dietary fat, the

longer it would take for the fluid to pass through the stents. This experiment used varying

amounts of glue mixed with water to simulate different levels of dietary fat intake and the

resulting pancreatic fluid. The mixtures were passed through two pancreatic stents and a biliary

stent, each of different diameter but the same length. The time for the mixture to pass through

the stents was recorded.

A One-Way ANOVA test was run and produced a p-value of 0.003, demonstrating a statistically

significant difference in the time for the “fattier fluids” to pass through the stents. The results are

consistent with current medical practices and confirm the benefit for patients to restrict their

dietary fat intake to maximize the effectiveness of their stents. Further experiments with more

sophisticated fluid models are recommended.



9 ME 813

Williams, Ben

T.C. Williams

Electrolyte Challenge

Abstract:

When we exercise we lose valuable electrolytes that help maintain homeostasis. People need to

take in additional electrolytes to help replenish what they lose when they exercise. However

there are so many liquids to choose from. Which drink athletes choose to best replenish the

liquids they have lost? I predict that when measured with the conductance sensor, orange

Gatorade will have the most electrolytes. First I created a conductance sensor, then I used it to

measure all liquids and record the results. Meanwhile I made sure to wash the sensor in

between tests. After recording all of the liquid’s currents, I used the conductance equation to

figure out how many electrons there are in each drink. After conducting the experiment, I found

that overall all of the liquids recorded a conductance of under one siemen(unit for conductance).

The tests recorded a steady average with few outliers. Most of the liquids were within a half a

siemen of each other. My hypothesis, that Gatorade would have the most electrolytes of the

liquids I tested, was incorrect. Not only did Gatorade not have the highest electrolyte content, it

in fact had the least electrolytes out of all the flavored drinks that were tested. Overall, Every

liquid tested without a hitch, and if I were to do this experiment again, I would add a bigger

variety of drinks to see how they compare to each other. In addition, I would add different flavors

of drinks to see how that affects the electrolytes.



9 ME 814

Mitchell, Kaiya

Trudo, Darsey

Washington-Lee

Blood Spatter Analysis

Abstract:

Victims’ blood and body fluids are used by forensic scientists to help recreate crime scenes.

This experiment and analysis showed how the angle of a surface influenced the fluid dynamics

of a blood spatter. The hypothesis proposed that a 45° incline would provide the biggest spatter.

The hypothesis was created after research on blood spatter analysis and forensics was

conducted. The project tested spatters at 90°, 45°, and 60° angles using a pipette to drop

‘blood’ from a height of 1.5 meters. Thirty tests were performed at each angle to provide

statistically accurate data.

After the experiment, the results were recorded in a raw data graph, the conclusion was

reached and the hypothesis was rejected. The 60° angle spatters had the largest average

spatter dimensions. The 45° angle was the second biggest, and the 90° angle was the smallest.

The data was averaged for each angle, to make it easier to draw conclusions. The experiment

was validated by a low standard of deviation; all data points were relatively uniform and precise.

The standard deviation was 0.136 for 60°, 0.156 for 45°, and 0.147 for 90°. This project would

make forensic analysis easier because the angle at which blood left a victim’s body could be

computed from the dimensions of the spatter, giving a more accurate picture of the victim’s

location during the crime. The collected data could also be used as a data point for comparison

by other experimenters in the forensics field.



10 ME 815

Apsel, Zoe

Yorktown

The Effect of the Height of the Arch on the Amount of Strain on the Patellar

Tendon

Abstract:

This experiment tested the the height of the arch of the foot to see which arch height resulted in

the least amount of strain on the knee, and thereby provides the ideal arch height to have in

order to avoid from knee pain. When the arch height is higher or lower than the typical arch

height, it moves the ankle and other body parts on the lower leg out of alignment. There are

three different basic heights for the arch of the foot be, low arch, medium arch, high arch. The

hypothesis was that if the arch height was low then there would be more strain and more pain

on the patellar tendon. In order to test this hypothesis, a model knee was built, then set up with

the knee at an angle of 90 degrees. Next the length of the spring was measured at the 90

degree angle and compared to the length of the spring with the three arch heights. The

averages indicated that low arch resulted in the most strain, the high arch in a close second,

and the medium arch height not producing much strain on the patellar tendon. The height of the

arch had a statistically significant effect on the amount of strain on the patellar tendon (p

<.0001). Both the hip piece of the model and the ankle piece were restricted in their movement.

These two flaws should be fixed in order to make the results as realistic as possible.



10 ME 816

Arkema, Gabrielle

Washington-Lee

The Effect of Dietary Supplements on a Cholesterol Substitute

Abstract:

The purpose of this experiment was to find which dietary supplement would work best to reduce

a person’s cholesterol levels. Millions of people have high-blood cholesterol and many use

supplements to reduce it. Four supplements were chosen and pig fat was used as a cholesterol

substitute. The hypothesis was “if niacin, red yeast rice, resveratrol, and fish oil supplements are

tested on pig fat, then red yeast rice will reduce the pig fat size most because it is similar to

Crestor, a prescribed medication”.

First, 150 mL of water was measured and poured into each of the five beakers. Each beaker

was then labeled and the respective supplements–niacin, fish oil, resveratrol and red yeast rice–

were stirred into the water to create a solution. Five pieces of pig fat was weighed to be

approximately 5-6 grams and one piece was placed into each solution. The pig fat was left in

the solution for 6 hours. After, it was laid out to dry and then weighed. A t-test and ANOVA test

were performed.

In conclusion, the supplement that reduced the pig fat size most was red yeast rice, with an

average difference in weight of 0.23 and an average percent reduced weight of 4.11%. The

least effective supplement was niacin, with less than half the effectiveness of red yeast rice. The

hypothesis was supported and the null hypothesis was rejected because the p-value was less

than 0.05. Further testing could include testing Crestor against other supplements, if warranted.



10 ME 817

Emery, Michelle

Yorktown

The Effect of Coating Type on the Solubility of Medication

Abstract:

The purpose of this experiment is to investigate how different coatings on oral medication, affect

their solubility. These independent variables will create a measurable effect on the solubility of

the coatings being tested. The hypothesis is, if the coating of a medication is changed then the

amount of time it takes for it to dissolve will change. If the substance by which the medication is

dissolved by is changed, the amount of time it takes for the coating to dissolve will vary,

between the two substances. Some major trends where that the results of Coating Types A and

B were the most similar to each other out of all 3 coating types. Coating type C’s results are

hard to compare to the results of coating Types A and B. For coating types A and B, it took

longer for it to dissolve in vinegar, while coating type C dissolved the fastest in vinegar. Future

experiments to build on this would be, testing the solubility of different coatings on medication in

a stimulated stomach and compare different types of coatings from generic and branded

versions of medication.



10 ME 818

Felipe, Anne

Wakefield

The Effect of Different Thicknesses of Rubber on the Amount of Force

Transmitted through a Cow Bone

Abstract:

The purpose of this experiment was to discover how articular cartilage and muscle tissue

surrounding a bone protects it from forces a bone is subject to. The different thicknesses of

rubber, the independent variable, represent how strong or healthy the cartilage and muscles are

surrounding the bone, the force transmitted through the bone, dependent variable, shows how

well the bone was protected. It was hypothesized that the ⅜ inch thick rubber would result in

less force being transmitted through the bone due to how it would be able to absorb more force.

Weights were dropped on the bones from 50 cm above the bone to represent a landing due to

how the largest loads a joint can be subject to are usually brief and result from an impact (Radin

& Paul, 1970). After all the data was collected from all five trials the results showed an average

of 1259.8 N for the control (no rubber), 932 N for ⅛ inch thick rubber, 800.2 N for ¼ inch thick

rubber, 730.4 N for ⅜ inch thick rubber. This proves the hypothesis of the ⅜ inch thick rubber

resulting in the least amount of force recorded.



10 ME 819

Isman, Kelsey

Yorktown

Amount of Fat in Different Types of Full Fat and Reduced Fat Crackers

Abstract:

The experiment was done to test whether full fat crackers really do have more fat that the

reduced fat kinds. In order to perform this experiment, crushed up crackers were put in a jar.

Acetone was added to dissolve fat and the extracted fat was separated from the rest of the

sample. The jars were left outside overnight. The masses of the jars before and after the

extraction were compared. The general trend that the full fat crackers have more fat was

supported. More trials that would be tested with a more accurate scale and bigger sample size

would make the results more precise. In order to collect this data, it was necessary to use

acetone to extract fat from the crackers. It was not an option to bring the jars inside because of

the risk of contact with the chemical, so a possible explanation for the error in this experiment

was the fact that the jars containing the acetone were left outside on a humid, rainy day. While

they were covered, the humidity might have affected the masses of the contents of the jars. In

the future, to account for this issue, this experiment could be done in the spring or fall in order to

avoid extremely cold or hot conditions. Further experimentation could be performed using other

brands of crackers, or other snack foods.



10 ME 820

Jones, Hannah

Wakefield

Dehiscence: What holds best?

Abstract:

The purpose of this experiment was to determine the effect of type of wound closure on

resistance to dehiscence. The hypothesis was “if a wound is closed with the horizontal mattress

suture technique, then it will have the highest resistance to dehiscence.” This was tested by

creating an incision on a small section of pig skin and closing the incision with either staples,

Steri-Strips, simple interrupted sutures, running locked sutures, or vertical or horizontal mattress

sutures. The section of pig skin was then hung with fish hooks and string, and mass was added

to a string on the bottom edge to pull apart the wound and create dehiscence. The amount of

mass added before the wound closure split was measured. Flaws in experimental design

created issues that compromised the validity of the data, so the hypothesis could not be

accepted nor rejected. Although some methods had means that showed higher resistance, the

range of the data showed great inconsistency in the resistance to dehiscence within the same

method. If repeated, changes to the experimental design would be necessary to further isolate

the independent variable. The results of this experiment, if revised, could be used to prevent

dehiscence of wounds and incisions to lower the risk of infection, pain, and scarring.



10 ME 821

Khwaja, Ayma

George Mason

Ayurvedic Herbs Triphala and Trikatu and Effect on E. Coli Bacteria

Colonies' Diameter

Abstract:

Ayurvedic medicine is one of the world’s oldest holistic healthcare systems-- it revolves around

the idea that a balance between mind, body, and spirit is essential. Two of the most popular

Ayurvedic blends in India, each consisting of three ingredients, are triphala (amalaki, haritaki,

and bibhitaki) and trikatu (garlic, long pepper, and black pepper.) Putting their supposed

antibiotic and beneficial properties to a test, E. Coli, a common bacterium known to have

infectious strains, was grown to see how the Ayurvedic herbal extracts would affect the bacteria.

The two extracts were added to the cooling agar and over a period of 3 days, the E. Coli

population was measured. As supported by the hypothesis of the experiment, trikatu extract

eliminated more bacteria; sample data points show how the average E. Coli diameter for the

plate with no extracts is 4.43 cm (+/- 0.05), the trikatu plate is 2.59 cm (+/- 0.05), and the

triphala plate is 3.14 cm (+/- 0.05). An overall discovery of the lab finds that Ayurvedic herbal

extracts have great potential as antimicrobial activity against E. Coli and may be used in the

treatment of infectious diseases concerning E. Coli (gastroenteritis, urinary tract infections,

neonatal meningitis, etc.) The data obtained in these studies justify the use of these ayurvedic

herbal preparations to fight infections or even be used as an agent to prevent or control E. Coli.

Additionally, it may suggest Ayurvedic herbs as a future alternative to medication if more

research is done.



10 ME 822

Murphy, Sarah

Yorktown

The Effect of the Different Types of Antacids on the Speed at which

Stomach Acid is Neutralized (pH/10 secs)

Abstract:

This experiment tested the effectiveness of the different types of antacids on the speed at which

they neutralize stomach acid so that consumers can know which brands are most effective in

order to use their resources wisely. Three brands of antacids (Tums, Rolaids, Alka-Seltzer)

were used. One tablet of each was crushed and put into separate beakers containing 30 mL of

“stomach acid.” This solution was a .1 molar solution of hydrochloric acid with enough water

added so that the ratio of acid to total solution was .1 moles to 1 L of solution. In increments of

10 seconds for 80 seconds, a stirring rod was dipped into each beaker and pH was measured

by tapping the rod to pH paper. The experimental setup was repeated for four trials and a one-

way Anova was performed. Of the brands tested, Tums neutralized the acid the fastest. Alka-

Seltzer tablets worked almost as quickly and contained aspirin. This would be effective for

consumers looking for quick neutralization of stomach acid and added pain relief. Some

consumers such as those on blood thinning medication need to be aware that Alka-Seltzer may

contain aspirin. Despite claiming to “work instantly,” the Rolaids did not neutralize the acid even

after 80 seconds. Each medication has different active ingredients which most likely caused the

effectiveness of them to change. This experiment could be improved by using a pH meter

instead of pH paper to get more consistent and accurate readings over a longer period of time.



10 ME 823

Zetkulic, Annie

Washington-Lee

The effect of calcium to magnesium ratio on mineral absorption in an

intestinal model

Abstract:

Many people need to take magnesium supplements due to ailments like osteoporosis or

coronary heart disease. In addition, many people, especially those who cannot consume dairy,

require calcium supplements. Though some commercial supplements combine calcium and

magnesium, some doctors suggest that the pairing is detrimental to bioavailability of

magnesium. The purpose of this experiment was to find the effect of calcium magnesium ratio

on mineral absorption.

The experimental group included 1% calcium, 2% magnesium, and 97% distilled water. The

control group included 3% magnesium and 97% distilled water. To test, thistle tubes with

dialysis tubing on the end to model the bloodstream and the intestinal epithelium, respectively,

were lowered into the two different solutions. After seven minutes the ionization increase was

measured using a salinity probe, which measures ions in µS/cm. The hypothesis was that if

magnesium and calcium are paired in a 2:1 ratio, then magnesium will be absorbed better than

without calcium. The results showed that the control group had a 205.78 µS/cm increase. The

experimental group had a 234.87 µS/cm increase, proving the hypothesis. The null hypothesis

was rejected and the p-value of .002 showed the results were significant. This showed that in

this basic model, the addition of calcium was beneficial, but more in depth research with models

closer to in vitro experiments need to be performed.



10 ME 824

Rios, Samantha

Harris, Jordyn

Wakefield

What is the effect of gel painkillers on how fast they dissolve in stomach

acid?

Abstract:

In this experiment, advil-liquid gels, tylenol extra strength, aleve liquid gels and excedrin extra

strength geltabs are tested to see how fast they dissolve in stomach acid. We are experimenting

on liquid gels because we believe they may work faster than a tablet. The acids in the stomach

that break down everything you eat, will break down the gel capsule slightly quicker than it will

dissolve a tablet and that will allow the liquid medicine to absorb into your system quicker. The

purpose of this experiment is to determine the dissolution times of three different pain relievers,

comparing brand names to generic names. The experiment tests 5 gel painkillers and each will

be dropped in a bowl of the “stomach acid mimic” (two tablespoons of lemon juice, and a cup of

water.) All will be timed, to see how fast they dissolve, and each trial will be repeated 4 more

times. The results show that the advil liqui-gel painkillers dissolved the fastest. The advil liqui-

gels dissolved in 1.18 minutes, while the other painkillers dissolved up to 5 minutes. Our

hypothesis was that if we use several painkillers, then the Advil Liqui-Gels will dissolve faster in

the stomach. This should be useful to people who get pains often, because they will know which

one will dissolve, and relieve the pains the fastest. This experiment could be improved by

experiment by testing the dissolution of painkillers with different temperatures of stomach acid

(body temperature).



10 ME 825

Williams, Savannah

Holmes, Zachery

George Mason

The effect of stem cells on bioengineering a kidney

Abstract:

20 million people each year get diagnosed with chronic kidney disease. In the US,

approximately 1 million patients live with end-stage renal disease (ESRD). There are over

100,000 people put on the kidney transplant list per year yet there are only 16,000 kidney

transplants each year. This is important to society but it is also important to the scientific

community because if we figure out how to build a kidney back up to the point where it is

working the way its supposed be or at least be to the point where the patient can live with it until

they can get a transplant then the 40% death rate could be substantially decreased. Stem cells

are what allow the idea of bioengineering an organ/kidney to even exist.



12 ME 826

Dagne, Esther

George Mason

Flaxseed and Complementary Foods

Abstract:

Omega-3 is one of the most essential fatty acids for children's brain development. However, the

majority of the population of Ethiopia can not afford to get this fatty acid from its main source,

Fish. In addition to the fact that fish is expensive in most part of Ethiopia, religious influences on

consumption patterns are also believed to be one of the reasons why most people don't include

fish in their diet. As one of the world's biggest flaxseed producer country, Ethiopians have the

opportunity of using flaxseed as an alternative source of omega-3. Flaxseed can also be given

to children with their diet. The purpose of this research is to investigate the effectiveness of

flaxseed as a source of omega-3 fatty acid with complementary food in Ethiopia.


(MI) MICROBIOLOGY

7 MI 900

Barta, Sydney

Williamsburg

The Effect of Essential Oil Type on Bacterial Colony Count

Abstract:

The purpose of this experiment was to find out which type of essential oil eliminated the most

bacterial colonies. Harsh soaps and cleaners disposed of incorrectly could severely damage the

Potomac River's ecosystem, and other habitats. The question was which type of essential oil

was the most effective antibacterial agent.The hypothesis was if cinnamon oil was rubbed on a

surface, then the least bacterial colonies would grow because cinnamon essential oil has the

highest amount of eugenol oil, a naturally occurring antibacterial chemical, of the oils tested.

This experiment was done by first swabbing school door knobs, then rubbing the door handles

with different essential oils. The bacterial samples were plated and placed in an incubator for 24

hours. The experiment demonstrated that lavender was most effective at eradicating bacterial

colonies. Lavender oil effectively sterilized 97.3% and Peppermint rid 95.9% of said bacteria.

Cinnamon disinfected 92.5% and rosemary oil cleaned 82.9%. In the end, lavender was the

most successful oil disinfectant and rosemary was the least. The two were separated by 14.4%,

a large margin considering the additional data. As for the other oils, they were fairly close in

effectiveness. Lavender oil contains α-Pinene, an organic compound that can work as a broad-

spectrum antibiotic.


(MI) MICROBIOLOGY

7 MI 901

Lasida, Emil

George Washington

Lights From the Sea

Abstract:

Dinoflagellates are marine bio-luminescent plankton. They produce light under mechanical

stress. Dinoflagellates are controlled by a circadian rhythm so they will only produce light and

photosynthesize at certain times. Light pollution can disturb their body clock. This can cause

them to be less bio-luminescent.

The purpose of this experiment is to see how the amount of light a dinoflagellate will receive

affects its ability to be bioluminescent. One group of dinoflagellates will never be exposed to

light. Another will never be in the dark. The last group will be in the light for 12 hours and in the

dark for 12 hours. 3 trials were conducted, each taking a day. Each night, at the same time, the

light produced was measured by a photometer. The results showed, the less light received, the

more light they would produce. The “Dark” dinoflagellates produced an average of 0.28 lux, 0.15

more than the “Light” dinoflagellates. Therefore, if light pollution is decreased, then

Dinoflagellates will be more bioluminescent.


(MI) MICROBIOLOGY

7 MI 902

Lewis, Spencer

Gunston

The Effect of Cinnamon on Number of Colony Forming Units of E-coli

Abstract:

The idea behind this experiment focused on the possible medicinal potential of cinnamon oil as

an antibacterial agent. The use of cinnamon oil could benefit antibacterial products such as

soaps, cough drops, teas and mouthwashes. As bacteria are constantly increasing their

resistance to antibiotics, this project looked at identifying a possible natural source to combat

bacterial growth. The hypothesis was if cinnamon oil was applied to growing bacteria then the

number of colonies of bacteria formed would decrease. The goal of this experiment was to show

if cinnamon was effective in killing bacteria. The experiment started by finding countable

numbers of CFUs (colony forming units of bacteria) through 7 dilutions of a bacterial stock, then

using the 4th, 5th and 6th dilutions which grew countable numbers of CFUs. Cinnamon oil was

applied to each of the 3 dilutions of bacterial stock each in a separate petri dish which was then

put in an incubator for 24 hours. After 24 hours the CFUs in each petri dish were counted and

graphed. The control was done the exact same way but instead of cinnamon, PBS (phosphate

buffered saline) was used since it essentially has no effect on bacteria. The results proved that

cinnamon oil does indeed decrease growth of bacteria dramatically. For example, in the first test

of the cinnamon oil there were 5 CFUs in the petri dish for the 4th dilution compared to the 101

CFUs of the control’s 4th dilution. Therefore, the experiment showed that cinnamon oil

effectively limited


(MI) MICROBIOLOGY

7 MI 903

Yeshigeta, Belan

Gunston

The Effect of Disinfectant on Bacteria

Abstract:

The purpose of my experiment was to find out what type of disinfectant would most effectively

killed bacteria. I chose this topic because I had heard that vinegar and hydrogen peroxide were

used to clean homes, and I was wondering how they would hold up against a more common

cleaning agent, such as bleach. My independent variables were hydrogen peroxide, vinegar,

bleach, and my control. My control was the bacteria without anything applied. My dependent

variable was the amount of bacteria left at the end of the experiment. I had originally

hypothesized that bleach would be the most effective cleaner because of it’s ability to break

down the structure of bacteria. The first thing I did during the experiment was divide four agar

plates into four sections. Then I swabbed a “z” in each section. Next I dipped small paper circles

in the disinfectants, then placed them in the center of each “z”. 48 hours later I had my results.

The hydrogen peroxide did the best with an average of 0% bacteria, the bleach came in second

with 4%, the vinegar with 76%, and the control with 75%. My hypothesis was not supported by

my experiment. Throughout the experiment I learned that hydrogen peroxide can strip electrons

from cell walls of bacteria, weakening and eventually killing them. I also learned that vinegar is

not an effective cleaner.


(MI) MICROBIOLOGY

7 MI 904

Tripathi, Anika

Agolini, Olivia

Swanson

Bacteria Invasion

Abstract:

The experiment was conducted to determine the effect of different places in Swanson on the

area of bacteria and color of bacteria. The hypothesis was that if the Cafeteria floor was tested,

then it would have the most bacteria and if a binder was tested, then it would have the most

total colors/types of bacteria. The experiment was conducted by collecting samples from the

Cafeteria, binder, lunchbox, locker room, and a hallway locker. There were three trials for each

level. The Petri dishes were then placed in an incubator at 37° C. Observations were made for

four days. Each day the area and colors of bacteria were observed and recorded. The data

supported the hypothesis that the Cafeteria floor had the most overall growth. The data partially

supported the hypothesis that the binder would have the most total colors/types of bacteria.

The binder, lunchbox, locker room, and regular lockers had the same results. Possible

explanations for the results are that the cafeteria is a large area used by many people and food

is brought to eat there, so it may not be as clean as other areas. The binder and lunch box had

the most colors, because they are taken to a number of places and many people touch the

lockers. Some improvements are testing one specific area in the place, to get more specific and

accurate results and using a microscope that can identify the different types of bacteria.


(MI) MICROBIOLOGY

8 MI 905

Portner, Noah

Williamsburg

The Effect of Temperature on Water Disinfection using SODIS

Abstract:

SODIS is a method of disinfecting water using solar energy and heat. SODIS is very important

around the world as it is a widely utilized disinfection method. This project was made to test how

temperature would affect the efficacy of solar disinfection.

It was hypothesized that if the temperatures were higher, then the disinfection would be more

effective. This hypothesis was tested by preparing bottles of water contaminated with E. coli

from the Potomac river. These bottles were placed in an apparatus with four temperature sealed

areas (25C, 30C, 35C and 40C) and foil to optimize sunlight. Because previous research has

shown that SODIS is more effective when lime juice is added, lime juice was placed in half of

the bottles (one for each temperature). A ninth bottle was set aside as a control. After 8 hours of

moderating the temperature every 15 minutes, the samples were plated and results were

measured after incubation.

All treated bottles had much fewer bacteria than the control. The results showed that 35C

experienced the greatest quantity of surviving bacteria, while 25C, 30C and 40C had less. The

results did not support the researcher’s hypothesis. This can be explained by realizing that 35C

is the closest to gut temperature where the bacteria thrive, and any temperature too hot or cold

will help kill the bacteria. Lime also proves extremely effective as the quantity of bacteria in

bottles containing lime was greatly reduced.


(MI) MICROBIOLOGY

8 MI 906

Watson, Meghan

Williamsburg

The effect of the temperature that ground beef is cooked at on how many

bacteria colonies are present after four days.

Abstract:

The effect of the temperature that ground beef is cooked at on how many bacteria colonies are present after four days. It has been known that getting sick from undercooked meat Is likely if it is not cooked to the correct “safe temperature”. The experiment conducted involves microbiology, or the study of small organisms. This experiment could help microbiologist realize where harmful bacteria can come from in ground beef or in other meats and how to prevent it. In this experiment the ground beef was cooked at different temperatures, then it was cut into ten equal sections for the ten trials at each level. The meat was then swabbed onto petri dishes,

and left to grow under a lamp for four days. The trials consisted of 21℃ (Control), 60℃, 71℃, 82℃, and 93℃. The highest trial temperature(93°C) had much less bacteria then the control (21°C). The hypothesis was supported and each level had a noticeable difference in the amount of bacteria. This experiment shows that when ground beef is cooked to the safe temperature of 62°C, it can still contain harmful bacteria.


(MI) MICROBIOLOGY

8 MI 907

Staren-Doby, Eryka

Lettau, Isabella

Gunston

The Effect of Different Surfaces Swabbed on the Amount of Bacteria

Colonies

Abstract:

If a piece of food is dropped, should it be eaten? How dirty is the surface it was dropped on?

The goal of this project was to find out the effect of different surfaces swabbed on the amount of

bacteria colonies. The hypothesis was that if the sidewalk surface is swabbed then more

bacteria colonies will be found because more varieties of living things (dogs,squirrels,birds,etc.)

have stepped on the sidewalk therefore there should be more bacteria on the sidewalk. The

process started out by swabbing the surface for five seconds, then rubbing the bacteria on the

petri dishes that were pre-filled with agar. After that was done four times, it was done to a

different surface. Once all of the surfaces had been swabbed four times each, they were put in a

room at room temperature for one week. After the one week was up, the amount of bacteria

colonies was found out. The results were that the bacteria on the tile grew an average of four

bacteria colonies. The average amount of bacteria colonies for the wood was 36. For carpet, it

was 32.75. The sidewalk had an average of 53.5 bacteria colonies, and finally, the grass had an

average of 51.25. The objective was to figure out which surfaces are the dirtiest, and that was

successfully found out. The surface that is the dirtiest is the sidewalk. The second dirtiest was

the grass, then the wood, the grass, and lastly, the tile.


(MI) MICROBIOLOGY

9 MI 908

Reppert, Margaux

Washington-Lee

What is the Effect of Refrigerated or Non-refrigerated Probiotics on the

Amount of Live Bacteria?

Abstract:

The purpose of taking probiotics is give the body good bacteria. Many people believe that

probiotics help the body fight off illnesses. This project will help people that use probiotics as a

dietary supplement. The purpose of this experiment was to test if there is a difference in the

amount of live bacteria between refrigerated probiotics, and shelf stable probiotics. The

hypothesis was that the refrigerated probiotics would have the most bacteria, because the

probiotics companies often recommend to refrigerate probiotics.

To measure the amount of live bacteria, the contents of a shelf stable probiotic capsule was

emptied into water to dissolve. Next, a sterile cotton swab was used to take a sample of the

solution. This was then placed on an agar dish, which was then incubated. This process was

repeated using refrigerated probiotics. The results of this project disproved the hypothesis. On

average, there was more live bacteria in the shelf stable probiotics.


(MI) MICROBIOLOGY

10 MI 909

Love, Kathleen

Yorktown

The Effect of Probiotic Bacteria on the Growth of Eserichia coli in Organic

Spinach

Abstract:

Foodborne infection with Escherichia coli (E. coli) can be acquired by eating contaminated raw

produce. This experiment was conducted to learn whether adding probiotic bacteria to

unpackaged, unwashed, organic spinach would inhibit the growth of E. coli compared to the

growth of E. coli from untreated organic spinach, based on competitive exclusion. Two bunches

of fresh, unpackaged, unwashed organic spinach were cut up, placed in separate bowls, and

respectively treated with pure distilled water (“control”) and distilled water containing one billion

probiotic bacteria colonies (“probiotic-treated”). Both spinach samples were left at room

temperature for two days, after which the “juice” from each was filtered into separate jars. Five

CT-SMAC agar plates were inoculated with the control juice, while five other CT-SMAC plates

were inoculated with the probiotic-treated juice. After incubating for 24 hours at 37ºC, the plates

were examined for colony count and color. All plates showed total E. coli colony growth that was

too numerous to count. The untreated spinach juice yielded more colorless colonies, identified

as E. coli O157:H7, a highly pathogenic strain; the probiotic-treated juice yielded fewer E. coli

O157:H7 colonies. The untreated spinach juice yielded fewer pink colonies (non-O157:H7 E.

coli); the probiotic-treated juice yielded more pink colonies. Results suggest that the presence of

probiotics in spinach juice inhibits the growth of the highly virulent E. coli O157:H7 strain. The

findings have potential implications for public health, organic farming practices, and could

possibly reduce the use of antibiotics in standard farming practices.


(MI) MICROBIOLOGY

10 MI 910

Volodin, Valerie

Washington-Lee

The Effect of the Type of Liquid that Contact Lenses are Stored in on

Bacterial Buildup

Abstract:

The purpose of this experiment was to determine if the type of solution that contact lenses are

stored in has an effect on how much bacteria grows on them. The levels of the independent

variable were contact lens solution, saline solution, saliva, water, and the control (no treatment).

It was hypothesized that using saliva as a contact lens storage method would cause the most

bacterial growth because it would introduce pathogens from the mouth to the lens.

For each of the ten trials, Biotrue one day contact lenses were worn for seven hours, and then

stored in one of the liquids for seventeen hours. Afterwards, bacteria from the lenses was

collected on a sterile swab and spread onto agar in a petri dish. After incubating the plates for

48 hours, the area of the plate covered by bacterial colonies was measured in cm^2.

The data supported the hypothesis, demonstrating that saliva was the least effective in

preventing bacterial growth. The results were shown to be statistically significant by the ANOVA

test. However, the T-Tests conducted for the water and no treatment groups as well as for the

saline and disinfectant solution groups revealed that there was not a statistically significant

difference for the groups compared. This could point to a similar effectiveness or possible

experimental error, which can be further tested by doing more trials. Future experiments could

include investigating different contact lens active ingredients, and testing to see if saline and

disinfectant are more effective when used in conjunction.


(MI) MICROBIOLOGY

10 MI 911

Webster, Tessa

Washington-Lee

The Effect of Essential Oils on Acne Growth

Abstract:

The purpose of this experiment was to test the effects of tea tree, rosemary, and basil essential

oils on Escherichia coli (E. coli) in relation to acne growth, in order to see if they could be used

as an alternative to over-the-counter treatments. The hypothesis of the experiment was that if

rosemary, basil, and tea tree essential oils were used on bacteria E. coli, then zones of

inhibition created by discs treated with tea tree oil would be the largest in size when compared

with the other oils. This was because of the strong antibacterial and antimicrobial properties that

tea tree oil holds, which outweigh those of the other oils. The hypothesis was supported and

there was statistical significance between the means of all three essential oils, meaning they

were all effective in inhibiting E. coli growth. Tea tree oil had a significantly larger mean zone of

inhibition in comparison to the other oils. T-Tests showed that there was also statistical

significance between basil oil, which had the second largest mean zone of inhibition, and

rosemary oil, which had the smallest mean zone of inhibition.

The data collected in this experiment suggests that essential oils are effective bacterial

inhibitors. However, in order to have further insight on essential oils’ effect on acne, the same

experiment would need to be done using Propionibacterium acnes (P. acnes) instead of E. coli.


(MI) MICROBIOLOGY

10 MI 912

Mengel, Helen

Sloan, Caroline

T.C. Williams

How Much Soap Gets the Job Done Best?

Abstract:

The purpose of this experiment was to explore how the amount of soap present on the subjects

hands affects how much bacteria grows on a petri dish. Not only does this experiment benefit

anyone who washes their hands, it also directly affects the students at TC who are concerned

about the germs throughout the school and what they can do to prevent bacteria. This

investigation was conducted by creating five different soap solutions, 0%, 25%, 50%, 75%, and

90%, and then conducting 4 trials of each solution. It was predicted that if the 90% soap solution

was used, then less bacterial colonies will form. After the subject thoroughly washed their hands

with the corresponding solution, their hand would then be swabbed and the bacteria would then

be transferred to the petri dishes containing nutrient agar, the bacteria growing agent used to

form colonies. After a week the data was gathered and the four trials for each solution were

averaged together to draw conclusions and successfully compare each solution. It was found

that the hypothesis was proved correct, due to the fact that the 90% soap solution yielded the

least amount of colonies. One interesting discovery was that the 25% solution had more than

0% which was not in correspondence with the rest of the data. To see if this was an anomaly or

a true fact, the experiment would be completed many more times in order to obtain more solid,

accurate data.


(MI) MICROBIOLOGY

11 MI 913

Bailey, Annabelle

Washington-Lee

The Effect of Preliminary Bacteria Amounts on the Effectiveness of Cloth

Filtration

Abstract:

The experiment was designed to discover more about the effect of preliminary bacteria amounts

on the effectiveness of cloth filtration to determine potential limits of the filter. The hypothesis

was that if layers of wool were used to filter 100mL of ‘contaminated’ water then an

approximately equal area of bacteria would be removed in all of the water sources. Three water

sources (Quincy Pond, 4 Mile Run, Potomac River) were used to achieve different preliminary

bacteria amounts and the area of bacterial growth (in cm2) were taken from pre-filtration and

post-filtration water samples.

Overall, it was found that the unfiltered water samples from each location had higher amounts of

bacteria, than their filtered counterparts which hovered at 2.9cm2. A set of t-tests were used to

directly compare the before filtration and after filtration values within each location and

determine the statistical significance of the data. Each t-test yielded a p-value of less than

0.0001, which labeled the data statistically significant, indicating that for each water source the

filter removed a significant portion of the bacteria.

These mean values rejected the null hypothesis (H0) stating that the use of a cloth filter would

have no effect on the quantity of bacteria after incubation. These means also rejected the

hypothesis (Ha) that an approximately equal area of bacteria would be removed from each

independent variable. In conclusion, the data from the filtered means suggest that there is a limit

to the filtering capabilities for this method of cloth filtration.


(MI) MICROBIOLOGY

12 MI 914

Halford, Grace

Bishop O'Connell

The Effects of Sound on Bacterial Growth

Abstract:

Though studies have been done on the effects of sound on plant and animal life, little research

has been conducted to investigate the effects of sound on bacterial colonies. In my project, I

explore whether different decibel levels inhibit or promote the growth of bacterial colonies. This

investigation is conducted in an acoustic chamber constructed using standard sound-minimizing

techniques. Plate cultures of B. subtilis are exposed to continuous tones of varying decibel

levels or to various selected sound files, and colony growth is measured after twenty-four hours,

including five hours of noise. The data from this experiment show a strong association between

sustained high decibel noise and increased bacterial reproduction. Based on the outcomes of

this research, the high decibel levels that seem to promote the growth of bacterial colonies

could be employed in cases where bacterial reproduction is encouraged, such as when bacteria

are metabolizing an oil spill and could be avoided in settings such as medical facilities.


(PH) PHYSICS AND ASTRONOMY

7 PH 1000

Berry, Colin

Williamsburg

The Effect of Core Type On Energy Generated From Bikes

Abstract:

The goal of this science experiment was to test different types of iron metals placed within the

core of a coiled copper wire to see what common household materials made out of iron

increased the power generated from a bike. The energy generated from a bike is based on

pedal power, which is a form of green energy. Anyone who has a bike can generate energy at

home. It was hypothesized that if the core had more iron, than more energy would be

produced. The common household items that were tested included a nail, an iron rod, and coat

hangers. A metronome was used to time the spinning of the wheel , so that all of the trials

would be at a constant speed. The results supported the hypothesis and showed that when the

iron rod was in the core of the copper coil, the highest mean energy output was produced. The

hollow core had the lowest mean energy production. These results are important because they

mean that people can increase the energy generated from bikes using common household

items. This experiment could be extended by expanding horizons to different metals (e.g.

copper, nickel, silver or gold) and by using insulated copper wire. However, the costs need to

calculated before using high price items, like gold. Future experiments could test for cost-

benefit trade-offs across different highly conductive metals.



7 PH 1001

Board, Kaylee

Williamsburg

The Effect of Bottle Size on Propulsion

Abstract:

The purpose of the experiment was to see how size of rocket affects propulsion. The hypothesis

was the more mass an object has, the more force there will be pushing against it because

objects with more mass require more force to be lifted off the ground. The experiment tested a 2

Liter bottle, a 591 mL bottle, and a 500 mL bottle filled halfway with water. The bottles were

attached to a rocket launching station and pumped to 60 psi. Each bottle was launched and

recorded on an iPad. The video was used to create a scale model to find how high the bottle

went. The number of centimeters from the launching site to the camera was recorded. The

distance was measured from the launching site to the camera and divided by the number of

centimeters from the camera’s view. This number was used as the scale to find each bottle's

height for final velocity. The results were that the 2L bottle required 2700 Newtons and the 500

mL bottle required 1455 Newtons. This showed that the less weight and volume an object had,

the less force there was pushing against it. The data had a small range which made it more

reliable. The conclusion was that the more mass and volume an object has, the more force

there is pushing against it. My hypothesis was supported by the experiment.



7 PH 1002

Cain, Richard


Insulation

Abstract:

The purpose of this experiment is to determine whether cotton, styrofoam, or tinfoil is the most

effective insulator. A controlled environment is used to objectively test which insulator provides

the greatest resistance to heat loss.

First, a styrofoam cup is encased in the material to be tested. 80c water is poured into the cup,

and every 2 minutes the water temperature is recorded, until the conclusion of the test at 6

minutes. This process is repeated exactly for each insulation material, and temperature data is

accurately collected.

Following the six-minute test, the cup insulated by cotton shows the least heat loss. With cotton,

the average temperature loss is 3c per minute. In the first 2 minutes, the temperature decreased

by 2c, followed by a loss of 3c at the 4 minute mark. At the end of 6 minutes, the water

temperature is 75c.

The next test, the cup insulated with tinfoil shows lots of heat loss. It has an average

temperature loss of 4c per minute. In the first 2 minutes it lost 4c, the next, loses 3c, and at the

end of the test the water temperature is 72c.

The cup insulated with styrofoam came in last with an average temperature loss of 6c per

minute. In the first 2 minutes it loses 6c, in the following 2 minutes it loses 5c, and at the end of

the test the water temperature is 67c.



7 PH 1003

Cavanaugh, Phoebe

Hammond

Rotor Blades & Wind Turbines

Abstract:

I did this project because it’s about wind turbines, something that is useful in everyday life.

Some may think that wind turbines on a wind farm look pretty, or exotic and different. But, in

fact, wind turbines generate energy, electrical or mechanical energy, using the wind as a natural

resource. Basically, wind is being put to work to generate energy that we use daily.

In my hypothesis, I stated that if the shape of the turbine’s rotor blades changes, then the time it

takes for the turbine to pull the (same) weight changes. I built a turbine and, after some

research, I decided on three different shapes of rotors to test. With each trial, I used a timer and

measured the time it took for the turbine to pull the weight. In the end, I took the average of my

three trials and analyzed my data. I found that the rotor blade with the thinnest tip took the

shortest time to be pulled up: 19.73 seconds. On the other hand, the rotor with the thickest tip

took 28.81 seconds to pull the weight up. I met my objectives, which were to see if the time for

the weight to be pulled up would change depending on the shape of the rotor. It did. Also, based

on my research, my results make sense. I expected the rotor blades with the thinnest tip to pull

the weight the fastest. They did. Current real wind turbines have rotors with thin tips.



7 PH 1004

Drake, Ethan

H-B Woodlawn

The effect of weight on a frisbee

Abstract:

The purpose of this experiment was to test the effect of frisbee weight on distance of flight. In

studying this topic it is important to know that there are 2 main forces of energy in a frisbie, the

lift and the drag. I also learned that the usual frisbie weight is 6.2 oz so for my experiment I took

three identical disks and added different amounts of weight to them using duct tape and various

pieces of metal than each tester took turns throwing each disk. For the experiment I had 3

different frisbies weighing 6.2 oz( control group), 7.8 oz, and 9.4 oz. I lad 5 different testers line

up on the zero yard line of the football field at Washington lee high school. Each tester threw

each of the 3 frisbies three times. The frisbie that flew the furthest was the control group (6.2

oz). The control group flew an average of 35.3 yards. The frisbee weighing 7.8 oz flew an

average of 31.3 yards. The frisbie weighing 9.4 oz flew the least with an average of 27.4. The

data supported the hypothesis because the frisbee with the least weight went the furthest. This

experiment could be improved in a number of ways including more testers and more frisbies

studied.doing more tests should be done to expand this study.



7 PH 1005

Fall, Alexandra

Swanson

Smoke Screen

Abstract:

Smoke detectors keep many people safe, and save multitudes of lives, but, they can be blocked

by as much as a piece of paper. The experiment “Smoke Screen” was designed to explore how

different types of paper blocked a radioactive smoke detector source. The purpose of the

experiment was to examine whether different types of paper would change the amount of

radioactive alpha particles that penetrated the paper. The hypothesis was that the wax paper

(compared with printer and tissue papers) would prevent the most particles from getting

through. To conduct this experiment, a smoke detector source was placed inside a cloud

chamber, which was placed on dry ice, and different types of paper were inserted. For each

type of paper the amount of visible particle tracks were counted over one minute. The

hypothesis was not supported by the data, as printer paper performed better than both wax and

tissue papers. The printer paper blocked the most particles with a mean of 30 particles

penetrating, while no material (the control condition) blocked the fewest particle tracks with a

mean of 74. Wax paper blocked the second least amount, with a mean of 67 particles

penetrating, and tissue paper blocked the third least amount, with a mean of 73 particles

penetrating. The variation likely was caused because of the density of the paper, with the printer

paper being denser, and more tightly woven, due to the ink retaining properties, wax paper

being thin, and tissue paper being thin and porous.



7 PH 1006

Graf, William

Williamsburg

Acoustic Fire Suppression: The Effect of Sound Frequency on the Time to

Extinguish a Fire

Abstract:

Fire is dangerous, and ways to extinguish a fire can also be destructive to lives, property, and

the environment. This research was conducted to find an environmentally safe and effective

way to extinguish fires. The project developed and tested a device using sound waves to put

out fires. The experimental hypothesis was that lower sound frequencies extinguish fire faster

by more efficiently pushing air. Sound is literally the compression and rarefaction of a medium

so it actually pushes air. The device physically disrupts flames first, via Bernoulli’s Principle,

using high velocity air to lower the pressure in and around the flame reducing available oxygen.

Secondly, the vaporized fuel in the flame is dispersed and cooled. The acoustic fire suppression

device is portable, using a battery powered amplifier and subwoofer speaker to produce the

sound pressure waves. Three trials were video recorded at each frequency between 15Hz and

85Hz in 10Hz increments with the device one foot from the flame. The time to extinguish was

determined by a count of video frames. The experimental results partially rejected the

hypothesis. The average time to extinguish fell from an inability to extinguish the flame at high

frequency to as low as 0.17 seconds as frequency fell to 35Hz but then rebounded at lower

frequencies. An ANOVA test of the mean time to extinguish showed that the 35-55Hz tests

could not be statistically distinguished from each other. The experiments confirmed the

effectiveness of the device and showed that the 35-55Hz range was most effective.



7 PH 1007

Kelly, Eric

Hammond

Fly Ball

Abstract:

For the project I put a fan behind a pitching machine to see if the wind blowing from the fan

effected the travel of the ball. I did this to see if wind really effected the ball in a baseball game.

What I noticed was that when the fan was next to the machine that is when the ball went the

furthest.



7 PH 1008

Lo, Elizabeth

Hammond

To Osmose or Not to Osmose

Abstract:

When you hear the word "absorb", the first thing that comes to mind is a sponge and a spill. In

my project, I tested the speed of a variety of liquids' absorption with a kitchen sponge. Although

the experiment is not very practical for real life use, it is beneficial to know the base absorption

of a common household liquid for data practicalities. I identified diverse liquids by measuring its

viscosity in the most basic form. To make sure that my data and experimentation was accurate,

I weighed each sponge before and after the absorption. My results were as I hypothesized, but I

did notice that each liquid's data was inconsistent in some way (except for honey). My project

contributes to the knowledge of absorption of basic household liquids and a kitchen sponge.



7 PH 1009

Love, Rachel

H-B Woodlawn

Blood Splatter Analysis

Abstract:

This experiment was Blood Splatter Analysis, testing the effect of height and surface material on

the size and type of blood splatter. It could help society by providing data that forensic scientists

or crime scene investigators could compare blood splatter evidence to. The hypothesis was that

is the blood was dropped from a higher height, than the blood splatter would be larger with more

spots. If the blood was dropped on tile, then it would spread out more (have a larger diameter)

than on concrete or plywood. The hypothesis was tested by dropping fake blood from 0.5 m, 1

m, 1.5 m, and 2 m. This was repeated for 3 trials on tile, concrete, and plywood. The data

gathered from each of these trials was significant blood spots, diameter of the significant blood

spots, small spots, and diameter including the small spots. The data from this experiments

supported the hypothesis, however, there were some interesting details. The number of

significant spots had a very gradual positive trend, while the number of small spots had a much

steeper trend. The results from this experiment could one day help crime scene investigators

determine the events at the crime scene.



7 PH 1010

Rambo, William


How many paperclips soar the best

Abstract:

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1BPtne6PSG--VvGwoBsCLT-d0GFjqARK3h-

jsBELlJ4M/edit



7 PH 1011

Rankin, Coral


Shrinkage of Yarn

Abstract:

Have you ever noticed that your wool sweater doesn’t quite fit you the same after an accidental

run through the washing machine? Well, not all types of yarn have the same properties or

shrink the same amount when put through the washer and dryer. The goal for this project was

to find out how the type of yarn affected the percent of shrinkage in the wash. The hypothesis

was that acrylic yarn would shrink the least compared to cotton and wool yarn. To conduct this

experiment, three roughly 12x12 cm sample squares were knit for each type of yarn (acrylic,

cotton, and wool.) They were measured, washed, dried, and measured again. This is when the

percent of shrinkage was found by using the number of square centimeters of the sample

squares. The results were that the acrylic yarn shrunk 5%, the cotton 18%, and the wool 36%

on average. In conclusion, the data did support the hypothesis. The results found in this

experiment could help a store owner find and label whether or not items will shrink in the wash.



7 PH 1012

Speaks, John

Swanson

Zap! The Power of Fruits and Vegetables

Abstract:

Is there a fruit or vegetable that produces high amounts of electricity? Can we find out what

makes natural batteries efficient? The experiment titled ‘Zap! The power of fruits and

vegetables’, explores the effect of the choice of different types of fruits and vegetables on the

number of volts produced when the fruit or vegetable is used as natural battery. The purpose of

this experiment is to determine which variable causes some natural batteries to produce more

energy than others. The hypothesis was that if different types of fruits and vegetables are tested

as batteries, then lemons, as the most acidic, will produce the highest voltage. The independent

variable levels were oranges, lemons, tomatoes, potatoes, and sweet potatoes. To conduct this

experiment, pieces of fruits and vegetables were made into batteries and their voltage was

measured by a digital multimeter. The hypothesis was not supported by the data. Tomatoes

produced the highest voltage, with a mean of 0.939 while oranges, potatoes, sweet potatoes,

lemons produced 0.929, 0.887, 0.878, and 0.926 volts respectively. The reason for these results

is that tomatoes contain the highest amounts of water (a conductor), which allows the energy to

travel more efficiently. The water is a good conductor because it has a sea of delocalized

electrons that have broken off from their atoms. When part of a battery, the sea of delocalized

electrons moves in the negative direction.



7 PH 1013

Stein, Aidan


Mini Marshmallow Ballistics

Abstract:

The purpose of the project was to find out how to make the most accurate and powerful

homemade air pressure marshmallow cannon possible. The hypothesis was higher air pressure

would send the marshmallow faster, resulting in less drop due to gravity and greater accuracy

over a fixed distance. To ensure precision and accuracy, the air cannon was clamped to a stand

50 cm high and a bubble level and laser were used to aim the cannon. Ten shots were fired at

high, medium, and low air pressure at a target 3 meters away. To evaluate accuracy, the

distance of each shot from the bullseye was measured and an average score was calculated for

each air pressure. While it was not possible to quantify precisely, marshmallows fired at high

pressure flew visibly faster and hit the target harder than those fired at lower pressure -- just as

the hypothesis predicted. Contrary to the hypothesis, however, faster, more powerful shots did

not yield greater accuracy. There was not a clear correlation between air pressure and

accuracy. The reason for this may be variations in the aerodynamic properties of individual

marshmallows is a more significant factor in accuracy than speed.



7 PH 1014

Thomas, James

Williamsburg

The Effect Of Different Aircraft And Their Features On Airflow

Abstract:

The purpose of the project was to see how different designs of aircraft features would affect the

airflow over the entire aircraft. The hypothesis was if the Bombardier CRJ 200 body design

appeared most aerodynamic, the Bombardier CRJ 200 would have the best airflow. This

experiment was conducted by finding a .3ds file for each different aircraft on a computer. These

files were loaded into an airflow simulation software program and the airflow over each feature

of each aircraft was measured. The experiment demonstrated that the Bombardier CRJ 200 did

have the best airflow for many reasons. The way the parts of the aircraft were positioned

allowed a better airflow. The shape of the nose cone pushed the air away from the aircraft

which was shown in the test. Therefore the hypothesis was supported. The conclusion was that

the Bombardier CRJ 200 had the most aerodynamic design and that caused it to have a better

airflow than the other aircraft. This would help society in many ways such as aircraft designers

being able to design better aircraft because they can use all three of these aircraft and their

features to make a more aerodynamic plane than they could without any of these kinds of tests.

Also the more aerodynamic the plane is, the faster it can travel. Air travel is safer than car

travel, and air travel is faster so passengers can reach their destination faster which could be a

big benefit.



7 PH 1015

Christiansen, Tyler

Kang, Eli

H-B Woodlawn

What item can help protect an egg from shock the most?

Abstract:

For our project we dropped multiple eggs from a second story window (155 in.) surrounded by

cotton balls, bubble wrap, paper towels, marshmallows, peanut butter, or feathers. We put the

egg in a cup and surrounded it with the absorber then we dropped it from the window. We did 3

trails for each of these 6 absorbers and measured the breakage of the egg, the weight of the

egg before and after they were dropped from the window, and the weight of the absorber. Doing

this we concluded which item is best for absorbing shock to protect an egg.



7 PH 1016

Donovan, Cooper

Wilson, Kyle

Gunston

The Effect of Air Temperature on the Internal Air Pressure of a Football

Abstract:

The purpose of this experiment is to test the evidence used against Tom Brady in the Broncos

vs. Patriots game in 2015. Our aim was to prove the validity of “Deflategate”. The officials noted

that the footballs had dropped 2 PSI, and the media claimed Tom Brady was responsible. Our

experiment sought to determine if this drop in pressure could have been the result of weather.

The goal of this experiment was to test the effect of air temperature on the internal air pressure

of a football. We approached this problem by exposing footballs to different temperatures. Ten

footballs set to the standard NFL weight and inflation were exposed to six different

temperatures. Then, the footballs were placed in each of the six simulated temperatures for 30

minutes. Internal air pressure of the footballs was measured using an automatic pressure

gauge. Temperatures used reflected game day temperature in addition to freezing point, room

temperature, and a typical hot day. Data for all ten footballs was collected and analyzed. The

footballs dropped an average of 10.5 kPa or 1.5 PSI, for the game day temperature which is

close to what was found by the NFL officials. The data confirmed our hypothesis, and

correlated with what was publicized.



8 PH 1017

Carey, Matthew

Swanson

The Effect of Percentage of Sugar in a Sugar Water Solution on Index of

Refraction of the Solution

Abstract:

The experiment was conducted to show the effect of percentage of sugar in a sugar water

solution on the index of refraction of the solution. The scientist placed the fluid in a clear,

triangular prism and shot a laser through the prism, marking various entry, exit and contact

points of the laser. They then measured the distance between four of those points and plugged

those numbers into a formula called Snell’s Law, ending up with the index of refraction of the

fluid. The scientist hypothesized that the 24% sugar solution would have the greatest index of

refraction, as sugar has a much higher index of refraction than water, so adding more, even in

distilled form, would give the solution a higher index of refraction. The scientist’s hypothesis was

supported, with the 24% sugar solution having the highest index of refraction, at 1.35043.

Ranges were minimal, with one clear outlier (Trial 10 of the 12% sugar solution). The

experiment could have been performed more scientifically and accurately, and chief among

improvements would have been using a stir plate to dissolve the sugar into the water, first

warming the water.



8 PH 1018

Fenster, Gideon

Williamsburg

The Effect of the Number of Magnets on the Time a Ball Bearing Takes to

Get to the End of a Track With a Magnetic Linear Accelerator

Abstract:

The purpose of this experiment was to find the effect of the number of magnets on the time a

ball bearing takes to get to the end of a track with a magnetic linear accelerator. It was

previously known that a magnetic linear accelerator uses magnets to fuel a chain reaction that

sends a ball bearing traveling much faster than the first ball bearing initially was. The results of

this experiment could help create more efficient magnetic trains, rollercoasters, and other

means of transportation and entertainment. The experiment consisted of a track made of

wooden corner molding with wooden square dowels taped to it, 37 stainless steel ball bearings

with diameters of 1.27 cm, 12 square neodymium magnets with 0.9525 cm sides, and sticky

tack holding the magnets to the track. There were 10 trials for each level of IV (4 magnets, 6

magnets, 8 magnets, 10 magnets, and 12 magnets), and the experiment was conducted in one

day. To record when the last ball bearing got to the end of the track, the Apple app SprintTimer

was used, which took photos of the finish line to accurately determine when the ball bearing

crossed the finish line.

As expected, the level of IV that brought the last ball bearing to the end of the track the quickest

was 12 magnets and the slowest level was 4 magnets. The mean time for 12 magnets was

1.494 seconds and the mean time for 4 magnets was 2.19 seconds.



8 PH 1019

Gellenthien, Lela

Kenmore

The effect of color on light perception

Abstract:

The purpose of this experiment was to determine the effect of color on light perception. Light

perception is how humans process light and color. It was hypothesized that the red colored light

could be seen from the farthest distance. In this experiment, colored sheets were placed over a

black sheet of construction paper so the black paper filtered the amount of light passing through

each colored sheet. A flashlight was held up against the black paper and the light was shone

through the paper and the colored sheet. This was done with three different colored sheets. The

distance was measured between the flashlight and where the light was last seen. It was

measured four times for each of the three colors. The experiment showed that different colors

could be seen at different distances. It was concluded that the red color could be seen at a

greater distance than the blue color and the green color. Therefore, the hypothesis was

accepted.



8 PH 1020

La Force Regli, Jocelyn

Williamsburg

The Accuracy of Clarinet Tuning in A Given Temperature Setting

Abstract:

A correlation between temperature and clarinet pitch frequency was already acknowledged

within acoustics of the clarinet, but unknown to musicians is how the relationship changes as

the temperature increases and decreases. This experiment explored how the temperature in the

current environment can be manipulated in order to create accuracy within the tuning process of

the clarinet. If the proven correlation between temperature and clarinet pitch frequency can be

applied to tuning, accuracy and timing can be reached within the musician and the ensemble of

multiple given instruments including, but not limited to, the clarinet. The experiment was

designed to measure the changes in pitch frequency within a given temperature range. The

experiment was completed over the course of 2 weeks, for data collection during the

temperature extremities must have been done in a specific environment which could only have

been done under certain circumstances. For each of the chosen temperatures, 20 trials were

conducted with a calculated mean, range and mean absolute deviation. The 20 trials were

conducted in a lower basement bathroom, to ensure isolation which could not be promised by

other rooms. This experiment resulted in proving a positive, linear trend as the temperature

increased by increments of four degrees centigrade. With this information, the musician can

assume the most likely change in the pitch frequency in the respective temperature environment

and make the appropriate changes to ensure accuracy before the instrument is played.



8 PH 1021

Riris, John

Jefferson

The effect of color of water on level of refraction

Abstract:

The expirement is analyzing complicated physics everyday people interact with almost every

day and trying to allow for them to relate to higher level acidemic studies.



8 PH 1022

Salahadin, Luqman

Kenmore

The Physical Properties of Graphine Compared to Other Materials

Abstract:

The purposes of this study was to understand the Physical Properties of Graphene compared to

other common materials. To fully understand this Graphene is very new invented in 2004. So in

turn this fairly new substance should be experimented with. I investigated this using Physical

Properties such as Resistance, which was determined by the Number of Hits before breaking or

Cracking. My hypothesis was that Graphene should pass all the tests. My hypothesis was

rejected.



8 PH 1023

Underwood, Luke

Jefferson

Keeping It Quiet

Abstract:

The purpose of this experiment was to investigate the effects of different materials on sound

cancellation / insulation. My hypothesis was that if spray foam, tin foil, and paper and tested for

sound cancellation then the spray foam will cancel the most sound. The control in this

experiment was to use no materials and measure the sound. This hypothesis was created

because background research suggests that because of its low density and good seal it will

cancel the most sound.

Procedure;

1. Gather all materials 2. Cut the bottom side of the shoe box out 3. Spray and press foam until a quarter inch 4. Fold aluminum foil until a quarter inch 5. Place papers on top of each other until a quarter inch 6. Place I-pad inside the shoe box and play a constant 85 dB 7. Cover the open side with the spray foam 8. Repeat step seven with paper, aluminum foil, and constant 9. Repeat each material ten times and gather data 10. Find the average for each of the materials

The results show that the spray foam reduced the most sound. The aluminum foil cancelled the

second most sound. The paper reduced the least amount of sound, and the constant did barely

anything. The purpose was to investigate the effects of different materials on sound insulation.

the hypothesis was accepted as the data shows the spray foam cancelled the most sound. The

results in this experiment can be used in building and workshops that create a



8 PH 1024

Ahmed, Aisha

Andrews, Kayleigh

Hammond

Sauce To Solid

Abstract:

Have you ever wondered how your grandma made that delicious cranberry jelly at your holiday

dinners? This experiment looks at; different cooking times that affect the pectin in cranberries,

that determines the density of the jelly substance. We tested that question by boiling the

cranberries at 100 degrees Celsius and taking a portion out in 3 minute increments. After the

cranberry mixture cooled, we recorded the texture and consistency of the substance by

prodding it with a wooden dowel. Our prediction is that the cooking times would affect the

viscosity in the last sample the most. Our results supported our hypothesis by showing that the

more the time increased, the thicker the mixture got in consistency. The experiment also

showed how different cooking time can affect the texture and the overall appearance of the

substance.



8 PH 1025

Finkelstein, Sophie

Erskine, Anna

Swanson

Parachute Egg Drop

Abstract:

We conducted the egg parachute egg drop experiment to understand the basic fundamentals of

parachutes and how they should be used. We hoped to find out whether the size of a parachute

changes the amount of force at which an object hits the ground. The problem statement for our

experiment was the effect of the size of an egg parachute on the force at which the egg hits the

ground. We discovered that the larger the parachute, the less impact force at which the egg hit

the ground. This was proved by our smallest parachute size (30cm by 30 cm) having an

average of 47.2 Newtons and our largest parachute size (90cm by 90cm) having an average of

13.7 Newtons. We concluded that if we continued to increase the parachute size beyond 90cm

by 90cm, the impact force would continue to decline. This information could be applied to find a

ratio relating the mass of an object on the size a parachute should be to match a certain force;

for example, to make skydiving and other parachute-involved activities safer, and to land

aircrafts in space. To make the experimentations easier, we would recommend using a larger

force plate to continue to be able to measure the force even with drift.



8 PH 1026

Grabman, Sophia

Wetmore, Mirabelle

Swanson

Swim Cap Lab

Abstract:

What is the effect of cap material on time lapsed to go five meters? As swimmers, we were

curious to see for ourselves if wearing a cap or not, or even the cap material, made a difference

in how fast the boat went over five meters. In our experiment, the independent variable was the

cap material: spandex, latex, silicone, and the control was no material. The hypothesis was if

the cap material was silicone then the boat will travel five meters the fastest because the dome

cap, made of silicone, is used for racing at the Olympic level. We put different cap materials on

the bottom of the boat one at a time, completing ten trials with each material. We then timed

how long it took the boat to go five meters with each cap, recording our data along the way. Our

graph has a relationship with the data table because it shows that the silicone cap has the least

drag and caused the boat to go faster in the water compared to the control. The graph also

represented that the spandex cap had the opposite effect on the boat. The means all the data

supported the hypothesis. Overall this lab can be helpful for a swimmer who is trying to see how

to go faster and drop a few hundredths of a second which can make the difference in swimming.



8 PH 1027

Guimond, Grace

Garvin, Delilah

Jefferson-Houston School

The Effect of Marble Material on Force Generated

Abstract:

In this experiment, we used three marbles with different materials and rolled them down a ramp.

We executed this experiment so we could see how different marble materials may affect how

much force the marble generates. Our data shows us that the marble that displaced the cup the

furthest was a marble made of metal. When other materials were used, the cup did not travel as

far, meaning they generated less force. The knowledge we gained from our experiment can be

used to see what materials generate more force so we can raise the mechanical advantage of

our present-day machines.



8 PH 1028

Hanley, Courtney

Ullmann, Lillian

Gunston

The Effect of Different Materials on WiFi Signal Strength

Abstract:

Do some materials weaken WiFi strength? One’s WiFi signal may be weak just because one

has a certain material near the router being used. This project looks at which material out of

aluminium foil, steel, cardboard, plastic and glass, blocks WiFi strength the most. The scientists’

research showed that many items can block the radio waves coming from a WiFi router, such as

a human body, microwave ovens, fluorescent bulbs, and Bluetooth radios. The scientists placed

each one of these materials in front of the router one by one. The scientists then used an app

called Open Signal to measure the strength of the WiFi in Mbps. One test was conducted

without any material blocking the router and was used as the control. Each material (including

the control) was tested 5 times. The control had a WiFi signal strength of 37.08 Mbps. The

hypothesis did not support the conclusion as it was discovered that steel blocks the WiFi signal

the most at a signal strength of 36.9 Mbps. The material that blocked the WiFi signal the least

was the cardboard, at 33.2 Mbps. This project helps people with WiFi signal strength problems

better understand what may be causing the problem, and ways to solve them.



8 PH 1029

Kumashiro, Anne

Kumashiro, John

Gunston

The Effect of Distance on Radiation Emission from a Cellular Phone

Abstract:

The purpose of the experiment was to measure the radiation emission of a cellular phone when

it is charging and when it is not charging. The goal of this experiment was to raise awareness, to

cellular (cell) phone users, about potential health dangers of using or carrying a cell phone close

to the head and body. To collect radiation emissions data, a cellular phone was taped to a table

in a controlled area, and positions were marked at five centimeter intervals to a distance of 60

centimeters away from the phone. Using a radio frequency (RF) meter, RF emission of the cell

phone was measured and documented for each of the 13 distances. This process was

conducted 8 times for both the charging and non-charging cell phone. The data, from these 16

trials, was then entered into a spreadsheet in order to compare the results of each trial, and to

analyze the overall results. The data proved the hypothesis was only partially correct. The

scientists were correct in stating that the level of radiation emission was higher when the cell

phone was closest to the RF meter. However, the scientists were incorrect in stating that cell

phones emit more radiation when charging as compared to not charging. Based on the

evidence and cell phone manufacturer guidance, cell phone users should store and use them at

a distance of at least 10 centimeters (~4 inches) from their heads and bodies to reduce negative

health impacts of cell phone radiation emissions.



8 PH 1030

Lunati, Mia

Moser, Caroline

George Washington

The affect of water temperature on the speed of light

Abstract:

Does temperature impact the speed of light? The purpose of this experiment was to discover if

the speed of light can be impacted by water temperature. Our hypothesis was that if the

temperature of water increases, the speed of light through the medium increases. Generally our

procedure consisted of Snell’s law to calculate the differences in the speed of light as water

temperature increased. We measured the angle of incidence and the resultant angle of

refraction to arrive at the speed of light, as we incrementally increased the temperature of water.

Our data and observations provided conclusive evidence. We were surprised by the degree of

change. Consistent with our prediction, the speed of light through the medium generally

increased, however, we didn’t expect the apparent changes in the angle of refraction. We

observed that at 110 degrees Fahrenheit, the angle of refraction did not increase, as it had at

other temperatures. In conclusion, our hypothesis was proven by the results. To answer our

question, the speed of light through the medium did generally increase as the water temperature

increased.



8 PH 1031

Stowers, Kareena

Gilman, Eliana

Gunston

The Effect of Different Floor Surfaces on Knee Impact Injury

Abstract:

The purpose of this experiment was to discover the optimal exercise floor surface in order to

prevent knee impact injury. Many people suffer from impact induced knee injuries while

exercising. Data from this study indicating which surfaces are correlated with more or less

impact force would help people who exercise regularly to chose the best exercise surface. The

goal of the experiment was to find the effect of different surfaces on knee impact injury. A tennis

ball was dropped 10 times from one meter above ground on six different surfaces (grass, tennis

court, basketball court, outdoor synthetic track, asphalt, and sports turf field). During this, a

video was taken to capture the drop, which was then slowed down in order to see the highest

point of the bounce. The hypothesis of the experiment was the softer the surface, the less

impact it will impose on the knee. Grass was expected to have the least impact on the knee,

while asphalt, the worst. However, our data only partially supported our hypothesis. The results

demonstrated that grass had the lowest bounce height, meaning less impact on the knee, with

an average bounce of 35.8cm. Asphalt’s mean bounce height was 66.5cm, and so the hard

tennis court, with a bounce height of 69.5cm, exceeded that bounce. The experiment’s objective

was to lead to an informed public in the area of sport related knee injuries. This study’s results,

which show that softer surfaces are better for the knee, contribute to the general knowledge

regarding



9 PH 1032

Anderson, Caitlin

Yorktown

The Future of Fuel

Abstract:

The purpose of this experiment was to discover the effect of water temperature on voltage

produced in a PEM Fuel Cell. A PEM Fuel Cell is a promising alternate energy source but does

not yet provide energy at an adequate rate. An experiment like this could help in increasing a

PEM Fuel Cell productivity. The voltage produced by a PEM Fuel Cell was measured at 40oF,

60oF, 80oF, and 100oF. Each IV level had five trials. The PEM Fuel Cell grid, and each cylinder

were filled with distilled water that had been heated or cooled to the appropriate temperature. A

battery pack was then attached starting the process of electrolysis, followed by measuring the

voltage output using a digital multi meter. The IV level 100oF produced the highest amount of

voltage at an average of 2.374V per trial. The IV level 60oF produced the lowest average

amount of voltage at 1.366V. The IV level 40oF came in second to last with an average of 1.43V

and the IV level 80oF came in second with an average of 1.536V produced per trial. The

hypothesis was not supported by the data. The hypothesis was if the water temperature is

changed then the amount of voltage produced will be greatest at 40 degrees Fahrenheit. The

data showed that the amount of voltage produced was actually greatest at 100 degrees

Fahrenheit.



9 PH 1033

Cavanaugh, Sophia

T.C. Williams

Repulsive Magnets

Abstract:

I did this project because it’s about diamagnetism, a concept that is not widely known. Some

may not think that magnets repelling each other have much use. But, in fact, they do. All matter

can become magnetized, generating a magnetic field around it. This can be used to move

objects around.

In my hypothesis, I stated that if magnets are added to flowing water, the rate of flow of water

slows down. To test my hypothesis, I ran an experiment. I put water in a tube that had a narrow

hole in the bottom. I measured the amount of time it took 40mL water to flow out of the tube.

Then I repeated this procedure by placing two magnets on opposite sides of the tube and

measured the time it took for the 40mL water to exit the tube. I ran the experiment five times. I

repeated the experiment with salt water as well. In the end, I took the average of my five trials

and analyzed my data. I found that the water flow was slower when magnets were added. I met

my objectives, which were to see if the time for the water to flow would change when magnets

were present. It did. Also, based on my research, my results make sense. I expected the

presence of the magnets to slow down the water flow. They did. Water became magnetized

when magnets were present. Magnetized water generated a magnetic field which repelled the

magnetic field of the magnets.



9 PH 1034

Elmissouab, Hamza

T.C. Williams

Optimal Solar Panel Tilt

Abstract:

Solar energy is becoming a widely used and crucial source of energy in today’s world. In order

to maximize the amount of energy acquired from solar panels, a more efficient strategy to

convert the sun’s energy must be developed and implemented.The purpose of my project is to

discover the optimal angle of a solar panel, that will produce the greatest amount of energy. I

hypothesized that the solar panel that is tilted at a 45° angle would produce a greater

milliamperage and voltage, than the other examined angles. In order to test my hypothesis, I will

obtain and align four solar panels on wooden blocks at the desired angles (0°, 20°, 45°, 60°).

The panels are placed in the sun, alongside each other, from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. for seven

days (which serve as trial periods). Every hour, a multimeter is used to measure the

milliamperage and voltage produced by each solar panel. According to the results collected

during the experiment, the solar panel tilted at a 45° angle had the largest average

milliamperage, median milliamperage, and median voltage among the 4 angles tested. The data

collected supports my initial hypothesis, which suggests that the solar panel tilted at a 45° angle

is the optimum angle among the 4 angles tested.



9 PH 1035

Kambhampaty, Adi

Yorktown

The Effect of Track Deflection On Projectile Speed In a Magnetic

Accelerator

Abstract:

In the defense, transportation and aerospace industries there has been substantial application

of and further interest in magnetic and electromagnetic accelerators. The purpose of the study

was to test if upward deflection of a portion of a linear magnetic accelerator would increase the

performance of the accelerator. A manipulative accelerator was constructed using sets of

neodymium magnets and ball bearings placed along two adjacent PEX pipes. The magnetic

accelerator was set up using a collision-based or gauss gun format. To test the effect of various

deflections, a portion of the track was fastened above and below level relative to a second,

level, section of the track. The deflections tested were (a.) 0 cm deflection or level which was

used as the control, (b.) -25 cm deflection, (c.) -40 cm deflection, (d.) 25 cm deflection, and (e.)

40 cm deflection. To measure the dependent variable, exit speed of a projectile from the

accelerator, two photogates were placed after the last ball bearing in the sequence. Of all of the

levels of the independent variable, the control group of 0 cm deflection exhibited the highest exit

speeds. A difference of means t-test, conducted for each level of the independent variable

against the control, showed that the experiment rejected the null hypothesis but failed to reject

the null hypothesis in favor of the stated one-sided alternate hypothesis. The results indicate

that upward deflection of a portion of track did not increase projectile exit speed from the

magnetic accelerator.



9 PH 1036

Rindfusz, Brendan

Yorktown

The Effect of Color of Light on Time That Phosphorescent Material

Luminates

Abstract:

This experiment was conducted by changing the color of light when charging phosphorescent

material. The purpose of this experiment was to see what effect, if any, different colors of light

have on how long phosphorescent material luminates. It would be beneficial to see how this

experiment unfolds because then people can see the easiest way to charge glow in the dark

products. This could be used simply for the children's toys, shirts, or for organizations like The

Red Cross to dispense during emergencies or could aid in researching animals such as

bioluminescent fish. As a result of the multiple purposes, this experiment can beneficial in

physics aspects as well as biological aspects.

Each of the 7 different colors of light tested in this experiment were be done over separate

periods of time. First a red light was put it in a room without any windows that ha no way of any

other light source getting in. LIght was then shined upon the 20 pieces of phosphorescent

material for 30 minutes. The lights were then turned off in the room and the time that the objects

illuminated was recorded. This process was then repeated for orange, yellow, green, blue,

purple and white light. If there is not as much energy, there is less to absorb, and the time that

the material will glow is diminished. Due to the difference in the data, p value less than 0.05 and

a reasonable scientific explanation, the null hypothesis was rejected.



9 PH 1037

Severn, Zachariah

Wakefield

Innovation in Backpack Safety: Can Gummy Bears Save Lives?

Abstract:

The purpose of this experiment is to design a backpack with bulletproof qualities that is

wearable, and is made from materials that are accessible and affordable. The reason this

experiment was tested was in the hopes of providing protection for students that are in danger

during shootings. The experiments hypothesis was that if a backpack contained a gummy bear

lining of a determined thickness then it would effectively stop a bullet’s penetration into the

wearer.

The experiment’s procedures consisted of 3 different gummy bear thicknesses (1”, 1.5” and 3”),

five 9mm bullets being fired into 4 separate tests including the control placed 10 yards away.

The control test was a 1.25” textbook and a 1.5” notebook with 100 sheets of paper. After five

rounds were shot at the control, all bullets passed through the binder and textbook. During the

following 3 tests that used the 1”, 1.5”, and 3” gummy bear thicknesses, the results were

identical to the control with each round passing through all tests.

The 3 tests resulted in each of the bullets passing through the bears, textbooks, and binders

with no visible sign of the gummy bear thickness slowing or stopping the bullet’s velocity. While

the bullets speed may have been decreased by the gummy bear and school supplies, the

decrease was not significant enough to stop them. Therefore, one can conclude that the

hypothesis was incorrect, and that any reasonable gummy bear thickness inside a backpack

couldn’t reliably stop a bullet’s penetration.



10 PH 1038

Claure, Leonardo

Yorktown

The Effect of Piezo Films on Converting Sound Energy Into Electrical

Energy

Abstract:

Fossil fuels such as oil, coal, and natural gas are estimated to be completely depleted by 2088.

Since most of electrical energy is generated by using fossil fuels, an alternative for generating

energy is crucial. The alternative method investigated in this project was the conversion of

human sound energy into electrical energy.

Piezo Films are films with specific crystals that produce small electrical impulses when

mechanical stress is applied to them. In this project, Piezo Films had mechanical stress applied

to them by the vibrations emitted off the cone of a speaker. By attaching the Piezo Films to the

vibrating cone, voltage was generated; thus a new method for producing electrical energy was

created. In order to determine whether the frequencies of human speech could be used to

convert sound energy to electrical energy, a range of frequencies were chosen from human

speech for experimentation. These frequencies were emitted by a buzzer programmed using

Arduino, and were input into a microphone that was connected to the speaker. To collect the

vibrations of the speaker cone, four piezos were connected in series to ensure that the output

voltage would be a sum of the voltages produced by each of the piezos. The ends of the series

circuit were connected to an oscilloscope in order to measure the total output voltage. This

investigation proved that it is possible to effectively convert energy produced by human speech

into electrical energy.



10 PH 1039

Curtin, Greg

Washington-Lee

The Effect of Boundary Conditions on Granular Media Flow

Abstract:

The “coin pusher” is an apparently simple arcade game that involves dropping coins at the back

of a table in the hope that the dropped coin, pushed by an oscillating bar, will push some coins

off the front edge. Coins dropped into the machine are the player’s cost. Coins that fall over the

edge are the player’s payoff. Predicting the payoff/cost is not obvious. This project was

motivated by the desire to better predict the outcome of such games. The basic hypothesis is

that force applied at the center of an array of coins at maximum packing density in a confined

channel will result in maximum flow out. The goal is to be able to see why the coins act the way

they do. The coins acted as one unit by creating force chains and these were similar results to

most of the research. The results were very interesting because the coins, just by creating force

chains made it so that instead of dropping off the edge the machine pushed a coin on top of the

other coins. This only occurred when the distance between the sides was 2 ½, 2 ¾, 3 ½ and 3

¾ quarter width. The difference of of channel widths were huge as far as how many coins would

buckle or drop off. At these widths the coins buckled a lot and made a very interesting

displacement of coins.



10 PH 1040

Gallin, Alex

Washington-Lee

The Effect of Ferrofluid on the Static Friction Coefficient

Abstract:

This purpose of this experiment was to observe the effect of ferrofluid on the static friction

coefficient. The hypothesis of the experiment was if ferrofluid is applied to a magnet, then the

static friction coefficient will be reduced by 15%, because the paramagnetic particles in ferrofluid

cause an increase of lift force when exposed to an external magnetic field. Three groups were

tested: no lubricant (negative control), mineral oil (positive control), and ferrofluid. Only the

direction, and not the magnitude, was supported by the data. The experimentation produced

statistically significant data. The no lubricant group had the highest static friction coefficient

(0.580), followed by light mineral oil (0.392) and ferrofluid (0.023) ferrofluid reduced the static

friction coefficient from the negative control by 185% and from the positive control by 178%. An

ANOVA (analysis of variance) test was run, producing a p-value of 2.15 x 10-106, which is less

than the critical value of 0.05. Then, three T-tests were run, all resulting in p-values less than

0.05. Therefore, the data was deemed statistically significant. This supports the hypothesis, in

that ferrofluid reduces the static friction coefficient. The data also supports that ferrofluid is

objectively better than conventional lubricants.



10 PH 1041

Humphrey, Ana

T.C. Williams

The Mathematical Identification of Exoplanet Candidates through N-body

Simulations

Abstract:

Transit and radial velocity, the most successful exoplanet discovery methods, are limited by the

capacity to observe planet-star interactions. I propose systematic mathematical modeling of

exoplanet-exoplanet gravitational interactions through n-body simulations to identify exoplanet

candidates.

To test the feasibility of the proposed method, two simulations were programmed in MATLAB:

an n-body simulation employing Euler integration and a simulation employing Kepler’s second

law of planetary motion as a control. The solar system’s four inner planets were modeled with

both simulations, and the deviations between the planets’ orbits in the two simulations were

calculated. Over one orbital period, the deviation remained within 600,000 km, or about 1% of

the semimajor axis of Mercury. Thus the data showed that the n-body simulation accurately

reflected each planet's’ eccentricity, semimajor axis, argument of perihelion, and orbital period

relative to the Keplerian control.

To assess the n-body simulation’s ability to identify unknown planets, the effects of removing

Mars on the orbits of Mercury, Venus, and Earth were modeled. When Mars was removed, the

orbits of the three inner planets deviated from their expected orbits over time. Without Mars,

Earth’s simulated orbit exhibited periodic peaks in deviations every 14.9-17 years. These peaks

correspond to the intervals of strongest Mars-Earth interaction that would have occurred when

Mars’ perihelion coincided with the planets’ conjunction. These results demonstrate the n-body

simulation’s potential to discover new exoplanets and to calculate their orbital parameters by

detecting signatures in orbits of known exoplanets caused by gravitational interaction with

unknown exoplanets.



10 PH 1042

Kohan, Amy

Wakefield

The Effect of Different Types of Mask Padding on Concussion Prevention

Abstract:

A concussion is a traumatic brain injury that alters the way your brain functions. In the United

States traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a leading cause of death for persons under age 45. Studies

have shown that girls who play fast-pitch softball are at a higher risk of a concussion than boys

who play high school baseball. The experiment will be testing the padding inside of mask that

are normally used by players to protect the head and face. The product that is being tested is

D3O. The experiment conducted used 3 different thicknesses of D3O and a combination of D3O

and the original mask padding. The hypothesis was that the D3O would prevent the most

maxforce. The testing was conducted using a softball mask with padding on a piece of balsa

wood. The mask was placed onto a force plate. A 1kg weight was dropped onto the mask and

the maxforce was recorded. The control was the mask without any padding, it let trough on

average 1795N. The mask padding and the thickest D3O prevented the most maxforce by

letting through on average 851N. The mask padding on its own prevent more maxforce then the

D3O. The conclusion was that the existing mask padding is the best candidate to prevent

concussions. Even though the mask padding and the D3O combined preformed the best, it was

to thick and impractical to wear.



10 PH 1043

Larsen, Scott

Yorktown

The Effect of Maximum Camber Height on Lift

Abstract:

The Effect of Camber Height on Wing Lift Abstract

Independent Variable: Maximum camber height

Dependent Variable: Amount of lift created (in units per 1.3 grams)

Hypothesis: If multiple maximum camber height levels are tested, the one with a maximum

camber height of 3 cm will create the most lift.

Data did not support hypothesis.

General trend: IV increases as DV increases

3 cm created more drag than 2.5 as indicated by a significant drop in the rear sensor reading.

This tells me that the air is pushing the wing back so the front end continues to show an

increased reading, the back sensor indicates drag’s impact on the wing’s efficiency.

The equipment could not directly measure drag (backward force).



10 PH 1044

Russell-Hunter, Sarah

Washington-Lee

The Effect of Violin String Core on Stability of Pitch

Abstract:

The purpose of this experiment was to find the ability of the different types of violin string core to

maintain their pitch. The ability of a violin string to maintain its pitch while the instrument is being

played is key to the success of the intonation and the performance as a whole. The hypothesis,

which stated that a plain steel string would maintain its pitch of 440Hz for the longest amount of

time because of the strength of steel relative to nylon and organic materials, was supported.

The experiment consisted of a test to measure how long different violin string core types were

able to maintain their pitch.

The steel strings (control) maintained their pitch for the longest amount of time both before and

after being played, followed by the nylon strings, composed of a strong synthetic material, and

then the catgut strings, composed of organic material. The time that all types of strings

maintained their pitch increased after being played for 15 minutes, suggesting that strings stay

in tune longer after being allowed to stretch. The results were analyzed using an ANOVA test,

and showed that there was a statistically significant difference between the means of each of

the groups, both before and after the string was played and allowed to stretch.

A musician’s goal in choosing a type of string is not to have to re-tune their instrument many

times, while achieving their desired sound. This experiment concluded that steel core strings

possess optimal stability of pitch.



10 PH 1045

Williams, Kelton

Washington-Lee

The Future of Transportation: Quantum Locking

Abstract:

The purpose of this experiment was to determine how vacuums affect the levitation time of a

superconductor and to also design a method to make the superconductor levitate for an

extended period of time. The hypothesis of this experiment was that if a superconductor is

levitated in a vacuum, then it will levitate for longer than if it had not been levitating in a vacuum.

This was tested by cooling down superconductors down to 77 Kelvin and then levitating them

above magnets in varying environments (i.e in a vacuum). The hypothesis was not completely

accepted because of excess material added onto the superconductor, which interfered with the

control group’s results, inflating the mean time of levitation, and thus skewing the data.

However, the hypothesis was partially supported because when the No-Vacuum (Flash) and In-

Vacuum groups’ mean times of levitation were compared, the In-Vacuum group had a mean

time 17 seconds longer than the No-Vacuum(Flash) group. These results supported the

hypothesis, and were a more accurate way of testing the capabilities of the superconductor,

therefore the hypothesis was partially supported by the data.

Besides performing the experiment, a separate component test was performed. A pipe was

designed that could remain at extremely low temperatures for extended periods of time. While

the pipe managed to achieve a very low temperature of -78C, it did not get quite as cold as

hypothesized.



11 PH 1046

Mekonnen, Eyoeal

T.C. Williams

How to score goals from corner kicks consistently

Abstract:

Soccer is my passion. I have always been interested in finding out how to make a soccer ball

curve. I often make the ball curve but not consistently. And If a player knows how to curve the

ball consistently it will be easier for the player to score goals from corner kicks. As soccer data

shows on average in each game played there will be 10 corner kicks taken. Scoring goals from

a corner kicks consistently will make a player an outstanding player. It is hard but not

impossible. Some people tried to figure out how they can score goals from corner kicks but

failed to find out how it can be done consistently. This research is being done so players will

learn and figure out how to score corner kicks consistently. My project starts by identifying

different possible places where a player has to strike the ball in order to score a goal. I also did

an experiment on a soccer field and collected data to figure out what factors needs to be

considered and where the ball needs to be kicked in order to score corner kicks consistently. At

the end of the research, I was satisfied with the data I have collected, I was able to identify

different ways which players can utilize in order to score corner kicks consistently.



11 PH 1047

O'Donnell, Piper

Yorktown

The Effect of Pipe Material and Length on Volume Flow Rate

Abstract:

This experiment relates to fluid dynamics. According to the equation of continuity and the

Bernoulli equation, there should be no effect of pipe length or type on the flow rate of an ideal

fluid. Water is not an ideal fluid and therefore some effects of these variables might be seen.

The objective was to analyze water flow through common types of water piping. The best pipe

would be the pipe with the highest volume flow rate. Copper and Pex piping were tested at 10

and 50 cm lengths. It was hypothesized that copper(10 cm) would have the highest volume flow

rate because it’s more expensive and seems like the inner walls could have less resistance. A

bucket with 100 N of water was put on a force plate with a tube in a hole cut into the side. The

water then flowed out of the bucket through the pipe and into a smaller bucket hanging from a

force probe. Data was collected from these items to make a volume flow rate vs. time graph.The

slope of these graphs was used to judge which piping was the best. A two-way ANOVA test was

performed and the differences between the levels were significant. The 10 cm. copper had the

highest volume flow rate. The 50 cm. Pex had the lowest volume flow rate. The null hypothesis

was rejected. The copper piping would be indicated to be better for water flow according to the

results of this experiment.



11 PH 1048

Cater, Geoffrey

Martin, Derek

Yorktown

Magnetohydrodynamic drive

Abstract:

During this project, saltwater was propelled around an elliptical ring of PVC pipe using only an

electrical current and a magnetic field. Keeping everything else the same, the strength of the

electrical current was changed which caused the velocity of the water flowing to change as well.

It was predicted that there would be a positive, linear relationship between strength of current

and velocity of water and this was supported by the experiment. A one way ANOVA test

between all ten trials in each of the six independent variable levels yielded a p value of 6.60x10-

11. Since 6.60x10-11 < 0.05 we reject the null hypothesis and there is a statistically significant

difference in the velocity of the water at the different levels of current. This relationship can also

be shown through the trend line which has a slope of 5.781 which means for every 0.1 amp

increase in current, the velocity of water is expected to increase by 0.5781.


(PS) PLANT SCIENCES

7 PS 1100

Khemka, Anuj

Jefferson

Drowning in Detergents

Abstract:

This study was conducted to determine the effects of different types of detergent on plant

growth and development. The independent variable was the type of laundry detergent: two eco-

friendly brands (Seventh Generation, Tide Purclean) and two “regular” detergents (All, Gain).

The control group was no detergent. The constants were the room temperature, the type of soil,

the type of plant, and the amount of light received. Every other day, over a period of 25 days,

seeds of the “four o’clock” plant (Mirabilis jalapa) were fed 30 milliliters of a detergent-water

mixture in which the seed’s treatment group’s detergent was at a concentration of 3%. The first

dependent variable was germination percentage. All the plant groups had a similar germination

percentage. This rejected the hypothesis that Seventh Generation and Tide Purclean would

have the highest percentage. The second dependent variable was growth in height. Gain and

All had the most growth. The data rejected the hypothesis that Seventh Generation and Tide

Purclean would have the most growth. In conclusion, though chemicals may be plant-based and

biodegradable, it does not mean they are green and harmless to plants. A future study should

be conducted to determine the effect of different concentrations of the same type of detergent in

a detergent-water mixture on the germination of growth of plants over time. The data of that

study should be analyzed to determine if it changes at higher and lower concentrations of

detergent than that which is used for the current experiment.


(PS) PLANT SCIENCES

7 PS 1101

Mellon, Emerson


Radish Growth Under an LED Grow Light

Abstract:

In this experiment, radishes were grown in hydroponic and soil growing environments being

exposed to different amounts of fertilizer all under an LED grow light. In the experiment, the

researcher hypothesised that the radishes would grow taller in the hydroponic environment with

zero teaspoons of fertilizer. In the experiment, the researcher had to put together each

environment. After that was done, she put in the soil, seeds, and fertilizer and set both

environments under the LED grow light. For the soil environment, the radishes were water with

one tablespoons each day. After the experiment was over, the data showed that the radishes

with no fertilizer grew the tallest, at 11.9 cm while all the other radishes grew to a height under 8

cm. This data showed that the radishes in the hydroponic growing environment with zero

teaspoons fertilizer grew the tallest in the most efficient amount of time. This is important

because it proves vegetables can be grown in small environments with little fertilizer.


(PS) PLANT SCIENCES

7 PS 1102

Sebil, Bamlak

Jefferson

Probiotic Potential on Plants

Abstract:

The purpose of this study was to see the effect of a blend of probiotics on plant growth. The

independent variable was amount of probiotic blend (0 mg, 200 mg, 400 mg, 600 mg). The

control group was no probiotic blend. The constants were the amount of soil, amount of water,

type of seed (Convolvulaceae), location of the plants, and amount of sunlight. The dependent

variable was plant height. The hypothesis was: Seeds given 400 milligrams of probiotic blend

will have biggest effect on plant height. A seed was planted in the soil in each cup and each

group was watered with 30 mL of the designated solution of probiotic blend. The process was

repeated every other day for sixteen days. The data showed that seeds given 400 mg of

probiotics dissolved in water had the greatest positive impact on the plant height. These results

support the hypothesis. In conclusion, probiotics do not have a harmful effect on plant growth

over a short amount of time.


(PS) PLANT SCIENCES

7 PS 1103

Waldron, Lara


The Effect of Added Sugar to Daily Wheatgrass Water

Abstract:

The researcher hypothesized that the wheatgrass height over a period of ten days would be

stunted by the addition of sugar to the daily given wheatgrass water.

This project studies that effect of added sugar to daily wheatgrass water. This experiment used

added sucrose to the daily water of wheatgrass. The wheatgrass was then measured every day

for ten days, determining the effect of different amounts of sucrose given to the wheatgrass.

The added sucrose (even in excess amounts) did not seem to have an impact on the

wheatgrass growth rates and heights. The means of the levels of independent variable (amount

of sugar added) grew to within two centimeters of the others.


(PS) PLANT SCIENCES

8 PS 1104

Bungar, Charlize Anne

Gunston

Hydroponics: The Effect of Different Plant Juices On The Growth of

Scallions

Abstract:

There are many minerals that are mixed and dissolved in water for growing plants

hydroponically, but what if we chose to dissolve juices of other plants instead of minerals, would

it have a better result than just plain water? When growing hydroponically, what is dissolved will

affect the growth of the plant. The goal of this project hopes to find the relationship between the

different types of plant juices tested on the growth of the scallion. The scallions were in water

bottles, each having one of the following variables dissolved in the water, watermelon, apple,

orange, aloe vera, or nothing dissolved, just plain water (control), and were measured by the

height of the scallions (in cm) every two weeks (dependent variable). The hypothesis was that if

aloe vera juice is dissolved in the water, then the growth of mint cuttings or scallion (in

centimeters) would affect them in a positive way because they can get some of the nutrients

from the aloe vera juice. By the end of the experiment the results supported the hypothesis,

showing that aloe vera had the highest average out of all the plant juices tested. From greatest

average to least: aloe vera (23.58 cm), water (15.8 cm), apple (9.44 cm), watermelon (4.54 cm)

and orange (4.04 cm) juices. The experiment showed that for growing scallions hydroponically

dissolving aloe vera juice benefits it’s overall growth, including height, than the other juices.


(PS) PLANT SCIENCES

8 PS 1105

Chiara, Luepke

Gunston

The Effect of Microwave Radiation on Radish Plant Growth

Abstract:

Agricultural industry workers are always trying to improve their crops and this project could help

them do just that. The purpose of this project was to find out if microwaving radish seeds

impacts how tall they grow. This is important because if microwave radiation makes the plants

grow taller, then this method could be used by farmers, gardeners or anyone in the agriculture

industry. If they could get a better crop by simply microwaving their seeds before planting them,

they could feed more people and gain more profit. The project investigated the effects of

microwave radiation on radish seed growth. The procedure consisted of making 5 groups

containing 5 radish seeds per group. Each group was then microwaved in a microwave oven for

a different length of time: 0, 5, 10, 15 and 20 seconds. Each group was planted and received

the same amount of sun, water and soil. The results demonstrated that 5-10 seconds of

radiation stimulates radish plant growth, while over 10 seconds negatively impacts the growth.

The 5-second group had the highest average height of 6.9 cm. The 10-second group had an

average height of 3.7cm which was 0.5 cm more than the control. The 15-second group had an

average of 3 cm and the 20-second group had an average of 2.1 cm which shows that those

two groups were negatively impacted. This project contributes useful information about the

effects of microwaving seeds to the agriculture industry.


(PS) PLANT SCIENCES

8 PS 1106

Mendelsohn, Alexandra

Williamsburg

The Effect of Amount of Coffee Grounds Added on Grass Height

Abstract:

The purpose of this experiment was to determine the effect of adding coffee grounds on grass

height. Coffee grounds have already been used as fertilizer because of its nitrogen content and

filtration uses, and the objective of the procedure was to discover if adding different amounts of

coffee grounds to the grass’ soil was beneficial or detrimental to its growth. The data was

collected using quantitative methods- 40 small, clear plastic cups were set out, and 50 grams of

soil as well as 5 grams of grass seed were placed into each cup. After, the cups were labeled.

10 were labeled “Control,” 10 were labeled “5g,” 10 were labeled “10g,” and the remaining 10

cups were labeled “15g.” Then 5 grams of unspent coffee grounds were added to each cup

labeled “5g,” 10 grams for the cups labeled “10g,” and 15 grams were added to the cups labeled

“15g,” while the cups labeled “Control” had no grounds added. The grass was given 20 grams of

water daily, and after three weeks the height of each cup of grass was measured and recorded.

Overall, there was a singular trend shown when the data was assembled- The cups of grass

with 5 grams of grounds added experienced significantly more growth than any other amount.

Seeing as coffee grounds make an effective alternative to artificial fertilizers, if they were used

commonly, pollution caused by manmade fertilizers could potentially be reduced.


(PS) PLANT SCIENCES

8 PS 1107

Orli, Alex

Kenmore

The effect of different color lights on the production of chlorophyll

Abstract:

This project is the effect of different colored lights on the production of chlorophyll. The purpose

of this project is to find how the production of chlorophyll in plants is affected when plants are

grown under different color lights. The hypothesis was the red light would make the plant

produce more chlorophyll because plants absorb red-orange wavelengths a lot. It was

hypothesized that the green light would make the plants produce the least amount of chlorophyll

because for the most part plants do not absorb green wavelengths. Since white light is a mixture

of color wavelengths, it was hypothesized the white light would be in the middle for how much

chlorophyll produced. The first step taken was to grow 3 plant sample per color light. The color

lights were red,green, and white. After the plants grew, the sample would be separately grinded

up and placed in separate cups of acetone. The plants were left in acetone for a few hours then

a strip of filter paper would be put into each cup. The mixture would then slowly move up the

filter paper and the distance the chlorophyll traveled on the strip would be recorded. The results

showed that the red light made the chlorophyll produce the most chlorophyll and the green light

caused the plant produce the least amount of chlorophyll. Thus, the hypothesis was accepted.


(PS) PLANT SCIENCES

8 PS 1108

Phi, Trung

Williamsburg

The Effect of Primary Macronutrients on Lima Bean Growth

Abstract:

Prior research has shown that the 3 most important nutrients to plant growth are called primary

macronutrients and consist of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Many farmers and

gardeners also add in these key nutrients to their plants as fertilizer as they are not always

enough readily available in soil. The purpose of this experiment was to determine the effect of

primary macronutrients on lima bean growth. It was hypothesized that if all 3 primary

macronutrients were used, the lima beans would have the highest growth rate. After conducting

the experiment it was determined that the results did support the hypothesis. Phosphorus had

an average growth rate of 43%, nitrogen had 44%, potassium had 47%, no primary

macronutrient had 51%, and all 3 primary macronutrients had 53%. From the results the

conclusion is drawn that having all 3 nutrients even in small quantities but are well balanced is

better than having one nutrient alone following Justus von Liebig's Law of the Minimum.


(PS) PLANT SCIENCES

8 PS 1109

Stearns, Oliver

H-B Woodlawn

What is the effect of different fertilizers on algal growth.

Abstract:

The rationale for the experiment was to test the effect of Nitrate and Phosphate fertilizers, then

the next step was to attempt to turn the algae into fuel. That did not happen. The question is

what is the effect of different fertilizers on algal growth. The hypothesis was that the fertilizers

would positively affect the algal growth. This is because the research showed that when there is

an increased amount of fertilizers there is an increased growth in algal and plant growth. This

data was obtained by collecting 1000 milliliters of water with 500 milliliters of algae and then 100

milliliters of water with 1 milliliters of algae was placed on top. They were labeled Nirtate and

Phosphate groups. Five vials each with one control. The experimenter then placed the selective

amounts of Nitrate and Phosphate solution into their respective vials. At the end of the

experiment the experimenter took measurements of the amount of fertilizer in each vial and took

final observations on the growth of the algae. The results of the experiment showed that the

fertilizer stimulated the algal growth more and in vial one worms were observed. That was the

only vial that worms were observed in. The conclusion of the experiment is that phosphate

fertilizers stimulate algal growth more than Nitrate fertilizers do. It is necessary to have some

growth stimuli in the water.


(PS) PLANT SCIENCES

8 PS 1110

Vaughan, Abigail

Gunston

The Effect of Different Liquids on Cut Flowers

Abstract:

Flowers are a huge industry nowadays. Cut blooms are imported and exported from different

countries all the time, so it is beneficial to know how to keep them fresh the longest. The goal of

the project was to find the effect of different liquids on cut flowers. Carnations were placed in

cups of different liquids and were observed for ten days, noting how long each took to wilt. The

liquids were water, sugar water, aspirin water, Miracle Gro water, vinegar, aloe juice and no

liquid. The hypothesis was that vinegar would keep flowers fresh the longest, out of all the

liquids, because vinegar is used in preserving flowers. The experimental results did not support

the hypothesis by showing that sugar water is the highest rated flowers with 8.56 rating (out of

ten) and empty was lowest with a 6.68 average rating. In conclusion, one could expect sugar

water to be the new approach for healthy flowers in florist shops everywhere.


(PS) PLANT SCIENCES

8 PS 1111

Obenberger, Alyssa

Harrison, Kira

Swanson

The Power of Nutrients

Abstract:

For this experiment the independent variable was the type of nutrient. The dependent variable

was the change in height of the plants. The hypothesis was that if the plants were fertilized with

FloraGro, a commercial fertilizer which contains many nutrients, than the plants would grow

tallest. To start the project cups were filled with each type of nutrients and water. The plants

were then suspended in the cups so that their roots were in the solution with no soil. Every three

days we measured the height of the plants and recorded it. Data was collected for 18 days. In

the end phosphorus made the plants grow the tallest. Many of the Floragro and potassium plant

died or shrunk before the end of our testing. In the end, phosphorus caused the plants to have

the most positive growth. The hypothesis was not supported by the data. This is shown in the

dot plot because there are the most circles, which represent phosphorus, above zero and only

three plants that had negative growth. All of the potassium plants had negative growth. The bar

graph shows that on average, the phosphorus plants had more positive growth than calcium,

FloraGro, and potassium. In fact, it was the only mean above zero. If the experiment were to be

repeated, a different species of plant and a different form of potassium would be used to allow

data to be collected over a longer period of time.


(PS) PLANT SCIENCES

8 PS 1112

O'Hara, Nadia

Zwartjes, Ava


Environmental Stress on the Drosera Capensis

Abstract:

The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of environmental stress on the Drosera

Capensis: whether the stress slowed the plants' reaction to food, and which growth anomalies

occurred. Anaerobic compaction, over-watering, and extended heat exposure were the chosen

stresses, as the Drosera Capensis species is most susceptible to these stress factors. It was

hypothesized that over an 8 day period, the plants' reaction time would slow down and the

plants would experience many negative growth anomalies. The plants were subjected to the

stresses everyday at 7 p.m., with each reaction or anomaly recorded. It was proven that the all

plants under stress had a slower reaction due to the negative growth anomalies. The control

plants remained healthy, with no drastic change in reaction time, and no growth anomalies.

Specimens subjected to anaerobic compaction suffered a 40% increase in reaction times to

food, with a range of mean reaction times of 3.7 hours. There were many brown leaves. The

overwatered plants experienced a 69% increase in reaction time, with a range of mean of 7.13

hours. Their roots partially rotted. Finally, the plants exposed to high heat suffered burnt leaves

and took 8.47 hours to react to food, which was a 71% increase. As a potted plant, the Drosera

reacted negatively to environmental stresses; if global warming should further change the

environment, wild Drosera may suffer in a similar fashion.


(PS) PLANT SCIENCES

9 PS 1113

Arabshahi, Danny

Washington-Lee

The effect of DEET on plant growth

Abstract:

The purpose of this experiment was to determine the effect of diethyltoluamide, also known as

DEET, on plant growth. DEET is an active ingredient used in common insect repellants. The

hypothesis of the experiment was, “If the amount of DEET increases, then the height of the lima

bean plant will decrease.” Lima bean seeds were placed in growing quads and nurtured to grow

in sunlight with daily watering for around two weeks. Twenty-four plants were grown and were

split into four equal sets (six plants in a set). One set of plants did not receive any DEET. Other

sets were exposed to varying amounts of DEET. After twelve days of normal growth, DEET

applications began. The DEET solutions were created by mixing varying amounts of DEET and

water. The DEET solutions applied throughout the experiment consistently contained only 5 mL

of solution. However, the percentage of DEET making up the solution varied from set to set

(5%, 10%, 20%). For each consecutive day, each plant height in every set was recorded. The

results revealed that DEET did in fact have an effect on the plants. All the plants exposed to

DEET had height decreases, while plants with no DEET exposure had daily increases in height.

The plants exposed to DEET decayed, shrunk, and produced a rotting smell as well. DEET

proved to impact plant growth and exhibited its ability as a potential herbicide.


(PS) PLANT SCIENCES

9 PS 1114

Boerckel, Madeleine

H-B Woodlawn

The Effect of "Acid Rain" on a pea plant's growth and overall condition

Abstract:

As an up and coming botanist, I had always wanted to endeavor into the wonders of plants,

specifically how they deal with changes to the environment, and how it affects their growth. For

this project, I wanted to see the effects of the watering of a pea plant with an acidic substance,

(lemon juice water mixture as a mimic for acid rain, including 250ml of water with 14.7 ml of

water), along with a control plant watered with distilled water. (Both pH were measured.) My

hypothesis was that the plant watered with distilled water would fare/ grow better than the

lemon juice mixture. To begin, I grew 2 pea plants till they grew leaves, then labeled the plant

with its substance that it would be watered with, labeling the spray bottles as well. I proceeded

to water the plants each day for 8 weeks, eight sprays for each plant with the spray bottle 5.5

inches away) with its respective substance. I recorded the heights and any additional

observations at the end of every week, and recorded those results. Overall, my hypothesis was

supported. I observed that the distilled water plant’s growth continued at a steadier rate than the

acidic plant, and the pea plant watered with distilled water was structurally better, not sagging.) I

made the conclusion that indeed, if this slightly acidic substance does minimal damage to the

plant, then indeed, acid rain is harmful to many aspects of a plant.


(PS) PLANT SCIENCES

9 PS 1115

Sample, Ethan

T.C. Williams

The Effect of Pharmaceuticals on Plant Growth

Abstract:

The purpose of the experiment was to determine if common OTCs that are likely to get into the

environment have an impact on plant growth. The experiment was conducted by growing 20

pea plants for eleven days, watered every 12 hours, with 4 trials for each drug. The drugs used

were brands of acetaminophen, ibuprofen, diphenhydramine, and dextromethorphan, along with

a control plot with no drugs. 3 grams of each pharmaceutical were thoroughly mixed into the soil

before seeds were planted, and afterwards the height of the plants was measured in

centimeters every 24 hours. After eleven days, both the diphenhydramine and

dextromethorphan compared with the control had no effect on the plant. The ibuprofen reduced

the height compared to the control by about 50%, and the acetaminophen reduced the height by

about 99%. This is likely due to the much higher prevalence of inactive ingredients within these

brands of drugs compared to those which had no effect. The active ingredients most likely were

less damaging because they target biological systems not present in plants. Some inactive

ingredients found in the drugs which had the most effect are also used in brands of soaps,

detergents, and cosmetics, suggesting their high potency within plant systems.


(PS) PLANT SCIENCES

10 PS 1116

Dowling, Quincy

Washington-Lee

The Effect of Different Plant Species on the Removal of Acetone from the

Air

Abstract:

Indoor air pollution can have serious effects on human health. The purpose of the experiment

was to test the effect of different plant species on the removal of volatile organic compounds

(VOCs) from the air. The independent variable for this experiment was the plant species, which

were dracaena, dieffenbachia, and schefflera. The dependent variable was the concentration of

VOCs (measured in ppm) that each plant species removed from the air. The VOC that was used

was acetone. The control group had no plants present. The hypothesis for this experiment was

that if dracaena, schefflera, and dieffenbachia plants were exposed to the VOC acetone in an

enclosed environment, then the schefflera plants would be the most effective at removing the

acetone from the air because it was rated as being more effective than the other two species at

removing VOCs from the air by scientists at the University of Hawaii. The results showed that

the dracaena plants removed an average of 13.68 ppm, the dieffenbachia plants removed an

average of 13.38 ppm, and the schefflera plants removed an average of 7.64 ppm (of VOCs).

Based on these results, it was determined that dracaena plants are the most effective species of

these three at removing VOCs from the air.


(PS) PLANT SCIENCES

10 PS 1117

Snyder, Nathan

Yorktown

The Effect of the Strength of a Magnetic Field on the Height of Radish

Plants

Abstract:

Many people have problems growing plants. They are always trying to make their crops grow

bigger, be healthier, and taste better. One way people have been trying to achieve this is

through the use of magnets. Studies have found that magnets break down salt molecules, and

can change the chemical composition of other substances that plants cannot absorb well. The

purpose of this experiment was to test this using radish plants (Raphanus sativus). The radish

plants were grown for 22 days, and each day the heights of the plants in each group were

averaged and graphed. From the data tables and graphs of this experiment, it would seem that

the magnets did have an effect on the radish plants. However, an ANOVA test confirmed that

they did not. The p-value for this experiment was 0.089, so there was a higher than acceptable

probability that at least some of the differences in results could have been caused by factors

besides the tested variables. Thus, the null hypothesis must be accepted. One way this

experiment could be furthered would be to use magnetized water instead of just putting the

magnets under the radish plants. Another way the experiment could be changed would be to

use real sunlight instead of using a grow light.


(PS) PLANT SCIENCES

10 PS 1118

Talbot, William

Wakefield

How does 80 Decibels of sound effect bean plants?

Abstract:

The purpose of this experiment was to see how damaging to plants high decibel levels are. The

researcher wanted to do this project because he knew that around the Potomac River in the

Reagan National Airport area, plants and animals are exposed to a lot of noise pollution and

wondered if it affected the plant life and the animal life negatively. The researcher believed that

high decibel levels, such as those of a plane, would have a huge impact on the plants, causing

them to be shorter, or to even die sooner. The researcher performed the experiment using a

decibel level of eighty because that is similar to a plane. Common bean plants were exposed to

the eighty decibels of sound for varying periods of time. The time of exposure ranged from zero

to sixty minutes. The researcher had five different test groups. Each group was analyzed by

measuring the final height after two weeks of being exposed to the noise daily. From the data

the researcher believes that plants are not affected by the decibel levels in the experiment. The

researcher believes that the experiment could have been more accurate if he used plants from

the Potomac River area, instead of common bean plants. The researcher also thinks that it

might be possible for noise pollution to affect the plants but they must be exposed for a longer

amount of time, or they must be exposed to higher decibel levels. Exposure to higher decibel

levels would be unlikely because


(PS) PLANT SCIENCES

10 PS 1119

Ceniceros, Aliya

Guzman, Jennifer

Wakefield

Is Hydroponics the Future of Farming?

Abstract:

The main purpose of this project is to demonstrate and display the benefits of hydroponics and

how it can be used as a better alternative to present traditional farming. Especially with the

rapidly expanding population. To do this, we set up six different plants, three grown through

hydroponic and three grown the traditional soil method. Every four days we took the highest

plant of each pot and measured it, to compare the plant growth between the two methods. After

thirty days, our results showed that the hydroponic plants grew faster than the plants grown the

traditional method. Our results display one of the many benefits of this method of farming.

Hydroponics limits the amount of pesticides, decreases the chances of an infestation, conserves

water, eliminates the need for arable land, enables you to grow almost any plant at any time,

and from our results grow plants faster. Hydroponics is an expensive method, but we feel it’s a

very effective alternative to traditional farming.


(PS) PLANT SCIENCES

10 PS 1120

Moran, Ian

Wiest, Alexander

Wakefield

The Effect of Microwaves on Plant Growth

Abstract:

Does microwaving seeds have a good or bad effect on tomato seeds? This is what i hoped to

find out through my experiment, “The Effect of Microwaves On Tomato Seeds”. Through some

research I have made my hypothesis that microwaves, if applied in the right amounts can be

beneficial to the plant growth but if done wrong it could stunt or even kill the growth of the plant.

We planted 18 seeds for each variable (3 in each of the 6 pots). The seeds were grown for 2

weeks with a growing light and equal amounts of water. Through the experiment it was found

that our hypothesis has been proved wrong and that it doesn't help the plant when the seeds

have been microwaved. The non-microwaved plants in the experiment had the highest average

height and the 6 pots for that variable had the most sprouted plants. It was also found that 45

seconds of microwaving was significantly better than 15 seconds and 30 seconds of

microwaving. In the future we could include another variable for 60 or 90 seconds and it could

possibly benefit the plant.


(PS) PLANT SCIENCES

11 PS 1121

McRea, Geneva

Washington-Lee

Effect of Temperature, Moisture Content, and CO2 versus O2 Environment

on Germination of Raphanus Sativus Seeds

Abstract:

Certain variables can change how a seed germinates- how fast it germinates or even whether it

germinates at all. To this end, seeds were placed in conditions that were chosen so as to mimic

global warming conditions (several combinations of increased temperature, decreased moisture

content, and a more CO2 rich environment), to see whether their germination was affected. The

hypothesis formulated at the start of research states, “If only the CO2 is increased, then more

Raphanus Sativus seeds will germinate, because CO2 is a fuel for photosynthesis, and thus

growth. If temperature is increased and/or moisture is decreased in addition to CO2 increase,

less seeds will germinate, because the conditions are too stressful (hot and dry) for the seeds.”

To test this hypothesis, Raphanus Sativus (common radish) seeds were left to germinate

between two damp paper towels in a closed box, with various combinations of the

aforementioned variables. To simulate a higher temperature, the boxes were placed on a seed

germination mat that was consistently heated to 95 degrees. For CO2, two effervescent tablets

were dissolved in water in their boxes while the lid was closed to capture all the released CO2.

The results were found to be significant for the heat variable when an ANOVA test was

conducted because there were no overlapping values. While temperature has a negative impact

on the germination of Raphanus Sativus seeds, a decrease in moisture levels and an increase

in CO2 content of the environment do not have a significant impact.


(PS) PLANT SCIENCES

11 PS 1122

Wierzbanowski, Benjamin

Mercean, Diana

Wakefield

The effect of different nutrients in martian regolith

Abstract:

Our Earthbound scientists are constantly investigating new and innovative ways to build

effective farms on other planets such as Mars. Yet, scientists must first identify which plants will

be the most efficient and productive in martian soil as well as find how earth nutrients impact the

growth of these plants. This project investigates which nutrients can improve or accelerate plant

growth in martian soil simulant. The independent variables tested include martian soil simulant

(MSS), MSS with compost, MSS with fertilizer, and a control group with only Earth soil. The

dependent variable was the height of each plant, which measured every day in a controlled

environment for approximately two months.

The hypothesis states “If martian soil receives compost then plants will grow to a larger height”

this means that the martian soil simulant with compost would be the most conducive to plant

growth. The experimental results support our hypothesis by showing that the martian soil

simulant mixed with compost resulted in an increased height.

Because on average, plants grown in MSS with compost, were taller than all other independent

variable groups excluding the control (group).

This experiment also showed that the elements in the fertilizer, have a negative impact on the

seedling life because it kills, molds, and spreads sickness to other plants.


(PS) PLANT SCIENCES

12 PS 1123

Diallo, Alpha

T.C. Williams

Effect of PH on plant growth

Abstract:

The purpose of this experiment is to determine whether there is a correlation between PH and

plant growth. PH is the measure of the Hydrogen Ion Concentration and is one of the main

methods of classifying liquids. This is important because the findings can potentially help

anyone who is interested in growing plants do so more efficiently. The hypothesis at the start of

the experiment was: If a plant is watered with a more acidic water, then the plant will grow

higher than if It were watered with a more basic water within the same period of time. The

experiment was conducted by using different types of waters at different PH’s to grow radish

seeds. The radish seeds were grown within paper towels and a water dropper would be used to

dampen the paper towels daily. There was three radish seeds per paper towel. Each paper

towel was assigned a water and placed in a plastic bag after being dampened. As the seeds

sprouted and grew the lengths were recorded. The experiment went without any problems and

all of the seeds sprouted. At the conclusion of this experiment it was determined that there was

no correlation between PH and plant growth. This was because a water with a PH that was in

between both the highest and lowest PH was the one that did the best. Some would argue that

there might be a PH zone in which plants grow the best, but the water that was the closest to

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