Science Buddies: "Ask an Expert"

Hello,

For this project what would I write for the real world application people don't realy use this in the world.

My project is adding salt to a microbial fuel cell to see how the power increases.

Also for my results do I just explain my math? Also what information should I include in it as to graphs and charts.

Also people have told me that I should include averages but the avereaga of what? What part of my paper would this go in.

I'd did four trials each one lasted five days I added salt every night. Wha am I supposed to avereaga to make the data clearer?

The power output of each trial? For every resistor?

Hi,

I will try to answer all your questions but if you still need help, repost and we’ll try to help you finish up the project.

Real-World Application
This does not have to be a currently used application. Microbial fuel cells are just one of many power-generating technologies that researchers are studying as a way to reduce the use of fossil fuels. Once the optimal conditions for microbial electron production have been found, MFCs may start appearing as a supplemental power source for the home using kitchen waste or urine as nutrients for the bacteria.

Results
There are two major points in generating electricity—how much and for how long. Your data were measurements of power output over time with and without salt. The hypothesis was “Does adding a certain amount of salt to the mud increase the magnitude and duration of the electric output?” What you found is your result.

Presenting Data
Statistical tests on data are necessary to prove or disprove a hypothesis. Your measurements were of the voltage across various resistors and you need to average the data for each reading. Take the averages of the voltages and calculate the corresponding power.

You could plot the data as a bar chart or as points connected by lines. I think the latter would work best but it is up to you. Plot the power on the y-axis vs time on the x-axis for the MFC without salt and the MFC with salt. If you have at least three readings for each point you can calculate the standard deviation and put that on the graph to show statistical significance. You would need to do this to prove that the difference between the plus and minus salt curves is real.

If you have further questions let us know.

Good luck!

Sybee