Summer
Science Fair 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.
Click to find similar content by grade.
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
Disclaimer and Safety Precautions
Education.com provides the Science Fair Project Ideas for informational purposes only. Education.com does not make any guarantee or representation regarding the Science Fair Project Ideas and is not responsible or liable for any loss or damage, directly or indirectly, caused by your use of such information. By accessing the Science Fair Project Ideas, you waive and renounce any claims against Education.com that arise thereof. In addition, your access to Education.com's website and Science Fair Project Ideas is covered by Education.com's Privacy Policy and site Terms of Use, which include limitations on Education.com's liability.
Warning is hereby given that not all Project Ideas are appropriate for all individuals or in all circumstances. Implementation of any Science Project Idea should be undertaken only in appropriate settings and with appropriate parental or other supervision. Reading and following the safety precautions of all materials used in a project is the sole responsibility of each individual. For further information, consult your state's handbook of Science Safety.
Education.com provides the Science Fair Project Ideas for informational purposes only. Education.com does not make any guarantee or representation regarding the Science Fair Project Ideas and is not responsible or liable for any loss or damage, directly or indirectly, caused by your use of such information. By accessing the Science Fair Project Ideas, you waive and renounce any claims against Education.com that arise thereof. In addition, your access to Education.com's website and Science Fair Project Ideas is covered by Education.com's Privacy Policy and site Terms of Use, which include limitations on Education.com's liability.
Warning is hereby given that not all Project Ideas are appropriate for all individuals or in all circumstances. Implementation of any Science Project Idea should be undertaken only in appropriate settings and with appropriate parental or other supervision. Reading and following the safety precautions of all materials used in a project is the sole responsibility of each individual. For further information, consult your state's handbook of Science Safety.
-
worksheet
Light and Color
-
workbook
Light and Color
-
game
Play
Find the Zany Zoo Objects
-
lesson plan
Classifying Objects: Describe It!
-
activity
Light and Mirrors
Loading
Sorry, could not load additional related materials.
See more
