Build a Band
Evidence of Work
Our Song, "Physics is Good" (to the tune of "Another One Bites the Dust" by Queen)
STEM STEM STEM physics is so fun
We learn about how vibrations cause sound
STEM STEM STEM, solve a world problem
We have done work that will astound
It's not STEM, if Riley's not messing around
STEM STEM STEM, alternative energy car
STEM STEM STEM, no other class is on par
Project Description
For this project, we were tasked with creating 3 instruments per group, and coincidentally, with 3 people in each group. It was immediately decided that each person should choose an instrument and do the entirety of it, including research and construction.
My instrument is a simple one-string instrument capable of producing 9 notes, including the open string (as mentioned in the write-up). I did this by carving out lines where each note is, similar to frets on a guitar. Additionally, I made my own tuning system that is functionally similar to traditional string tuners, but is more primitive, since I made it from scratch as opposed to buying one.
Content
Big Idea: Energy is transferred in the form of waves and there are models to predict how the energy is transferred.
I can use the equation v=f𝝺 to relate the frequency, wavelength, and speed of waves.
I can explain the different ways waves carry information.
I can compare and contrast the wave model and the particle model and understand that both are representations to help me better understand how light behaves.
I can examine and draw conclusions from academic texts to determine the effects of radiation on living cells.
I can explain how waves of different wavelengths are used by a variety of everyday technologies such as cell phones, microwaves, radio, and solar panels.
Key Vocabulary:
frequency
the number of vibrations per second, measured in Hertz (Hz)
wavelength
the length between the crests of a wave
wave speed
the speed at which a wave travels
radiation
emission of energy as electromagnetic waves
period
interval of time between oscillations
medium
any matter that longitudinal waves can go through
digital
consisting of discrete numeric values
analog
a continuous signal of variable frequency
photon
a particle representing a quantum of electromagnetic radiation
wave
a disturbance of a medium in order to transfer energy
interference
combination of two waves that can be constructive or destructive
particle
a minute portion of matter
electromagnetic radiation
radiation that includes visible light, radio, gamma, and X-rays.
ionization
a process by which an atom or molecule acquires a negative or positive charge
X-Ray
electromagnetic wave with a wavelength of 0.01 to 10 nano meters
FM/AM
Frequency Modulation, Amplitude Modulation
Microwaves
electromagnetic waves with a wavelength of 0.001-0.3m
UV rays
electromagnetic waves with a wavelength of 10-400nm
Solar Panels
panels designed to convert the sun's rays to electrical energy
wave/particle models
two different models that can sometimes be used to explain the same phenomenon
Reflection
In this project, I really got to take on the role of an authority of sorts, given my involvement in music. Besides having background knowledge, I also demonstrated my Communication skills, because I had to somehow explain how musical notes notes work. In addition to that, I was Culturally Competent, because I have been in music since fourth grade. However, I did not demonstrate much Conscientious Learner ability, because I did not have to put much effort into learning. Also, Collaboration took a backseat to all else, since everyone was working on their own individual instruments.