Introduction

The driving question for this project was: How can we convert Chemical Energy into another form of useful energy and how can we measure the amount of energy transferred between their systems? It was our final assignment for the year and to be completed individually. Using our new knowledge of Thermodynamics and the transfers of energy, we were required to design and build a device that converted one form of energy into another.

For my project I chose to build a hydropower turbine, on a smaller scale of course. I knew that hydropower was the energy type I wanted to use and after much research, I found a way to achieve that at home. I created a turbine from materials around my house to power a motor and light and LED. This turbine represents the systems in place at many hydroelectric facilities and dams. Hydropower is an efficient and renewable energy source that can be harnessed just about everywhere.

1st Law of Thermodynamics: energy can neither be created or destroyed (Law of Conservation of energy)

2nd Law of Thermodynamics: in all energy exchanges, if no energy enters or leaves the system, the potential energy of the state will always be less than that of the initial state (entropy)

3rd Law of Thermodynamics: the entropy of a perfect crystal of a pure substance approaches zero as the temperature approaches zero

Reflection

This project was different than our previous two because it was completely individual. I thoroughly enjoyed this project because I felt like I had complete control over the result. I think it was actually less stressful than the previous ones because I wasn't worried about what my group mates were doing. I knew exactly what I was turning in and I am extremely proud of the result. I wanted to step outside of my comfort zone and build something for this project. Typically, I would have stuck to a more research focused project, but I felt compelled to try something new for the final.

I believe that exemplified good character and was a conscientious learner throughout this assignment. I showed growth in that I tried something new and it paid off. Given that this was an individual project, I displayed integrity in my work. My work is a reflection of me and I made sure that it was a positive one. I also utilized conscientious learning techniques during this project. I gave my document writing and building time priority in my life and focused on time management as well. I made sure I stayed organized and that I gave myself goals for each step of the way. For example, I set aside time on one night to dedicate entirely to building my turbine. After that was finished, I set guidelines for myself so that I finished the document early and had time to revise it. I dedicated the first day to research and the second was for laying out my building process information. These were my two "peaks" of the project.

I feel really good about my project and there isn't much I would change or improve. The two areas I could consider "pits" are in critical thinking and communication. I didn't make as many improvements to my turbine as I could have and I wasn't focused on a trial and error system. This is not a big deal since my project was not primarily focused on the building aspect and it was just in addition to the research. For communication, I did not reach out to Mrs. Vogl ahead of time to get feedback before I turned it in, which might have been helpful. Overall, I am confident in my final product and I am proud of the project I completed.