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Science Project:
How do Concave and Convex Objects Refract Light Differently?
Grade Level: 1st – 3rd; Type: Physical Science
Objective:
This simple experiment will teach kids about convex/concave objects and how they reflect light. They will also learn the difference between concave and convex.
Research Questions:
- What is the difference between concave and convex objects?
- What are some applications of concave and convex parts?
There are many concave and convex objects around us. In fact, we eat with one everyday. That’s right, a spoon is a great example. In fact, all concave objects can be convex and all convex objects can also be concave because everything has at least two sides; it doesn’t matter if it is visible or not.
Materials:
- Flashlight
- Spoon
- A dark room
Experimental Procedure
- In a dark room, hold a spoon with the bulged-curved side directly facing a flashlight about three inches away. Turn the flashlight on. What do you see?
- Now flip the spoon over to the curved-inwards side and shine a flashlight at it as you did in step 1. Now what do you see?
- Compare the difference in light reflection.
Terms/Concepts: convex; concave; light
References:
- http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Curved_mirror
- http://micro.magnet.fsu.edu/primer/java/mirrors/concave.html
- Mirror mirror: a history of the human love affair with reflection, Mark Pendergrast, Basic Books, 2004,ISBN 0-465-05471-4
Read more here: https://www.education.com/resources/angles/
Kind Kiddo 