A magnetometer is a very simple tool that is used to detect and analyze magnetic fields. This tool not only allows you to determine if a magnetic field is present, but it will also give you an indication of how strong the field is and what its polarity is. Magnetometers can be used to create a number of science fair projects.
Project #1 - Magnetic Field Mapping
Magnetometer science fair projects can be completed by students of any age, however, more complex projects are generally completed by high school students. The first magnetometer science fair project that you can complete will involve the mapping of magnetic fields in a specific area. Keep in mind that magnetic fields can be generated by electricity or natural phenomenon.
The hypothesis for this project is that there are more magnetic fields inside of structures then there are outside of structures. The independent variable for this hypothesis is the location of the magnetic field. The variable that is considered dependent, or the one that will be measured, is the number of magnetic fields that are identified.
To complete this project the student will need to target at least a dozen structures of various sizes and with various sized lots. First they will draw a diagram of the interior and exterior of the location being tested. Then they will walk through the building and count how many magnetic fields they find, they will also need to mark on their diagrams where they find magnetic fields. A little red dot will work. Next they will need to go outside and walk the property to see if they can find magnetic fields in the yard. Again they will need to mark on their maps where the magnetic fields are and how many they find.
Project #2 - Human Magnetism
The human magnetism science fair project will determine if humans can amplify their electro-magnetic field by holding hands with another person or by holding onto something that has an intense electro-magnetic field. This project will require several human test subjects, a magnetometer and a electrical device such as a computer or an battery charger. Since you are working with electricity you may also want to use a rubber mat for the test subject to stand on.
The hypothesis for this project is that since the human body can conduct electricity that they will be able to amplify their electro-magnetic field by holding an object that has its own electromagnetic field. The variable to be manipulated in this experiment will the condition of the human body, whether it is tested alone or whether it is holding something electronic. The variable to be measured with the magnetometer will be the strength of the electric field around the human body.
The control experiment for this project is going to be the human body without the presence of an electronic device. Make sure the test subject is not wearing a watch when they are tested. The test experiment will be conducted as the human holds an object. Take the readings in the same locations, preferable at a point that is not right next to the electronic device that is being held. For example, you can take both the control and the test reading on their back or around their feet.
Conclusions
Magnetometer high school science fair projects can give you a much better understanding of the physical characteristics of electricity and energy in general. These projects can be used to test ordinary, everyday scenarios or they can be used to experiment with the supernatural. Magnetometers can be purchased in a science store or electronics store, or you can make a basic model yourself using a few common items like a plastic 2 liter bottle, water and magnets.
1 comments:
A wonderfully magnetic post!!
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