Science project
The Drawbacks of an Optical Mouse
The optical mouse replaced the old-school mechanical rollerball style mice that we can't seem to find anymore these days outside of antique stores and attics. Dust clogged up those rollerball-type mice and and they were prone to getting “caught” on things or to skid, which dramatically affected performance. The optical mouse solved those problems, using a red Light-Emitting Diode (LED) and optical sensor that relies on images being “offset” or slightly displaced for positioning. But did that solution creat other problems?
Problem:
Find out whether optical mice work on all surfaces, and try to understand why certain surfaces are better than others.
Materials:
- One wireless optical mouse
- Black mouse pad or black surface
- Light colored or white surface
- Piece of transparent glass
- Mirror
- A computer, of course
Procedure:
- Attach the optical mouse to your computer.
- Slide the white surface underneath your mouse. Observe if the mouse moves and responds easily.
- Now, replace the white surface with the black surface. What happens?
- Try putting a mirrored surface underneath, now what happens?
- Finally, try the transparent glass. Does the mouse move at all?
- Compare the different surfaces and research why some might be better than others.
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.
Related learning resources
A Trick for the Eyes: Color Wheels and Optical Illusion Tops
Science project
A Trick for the Eyes: Color Wheels and Optical Illusion Tops
This science fair project idea experiments with spinning color wheels and optical illusions.
5th grade
Science
Science project
Adding Colors: An Optical Experiment
Activity
Adding Colors: An Optical Experiment
What happens when colored beams of light mix? You might be surprised.
5th grade
Science
Activity
Measuring Magnification
Science project
Measuring Magnification
This science fair project idea investigates how optical distances change the apparent size of an object as seen through a magnifying lens.
2nd grade
Science project
