Science Buddies: "Ask an Expert"

Howdy-
I'm about to start working on my "Waste Not, Want Not" project, but I'm a bit confused on how many times it is recommended to complete the procedure. I am using three different fuel cells as it recommends but then it says "In most cases, the experimental procedure states to perform actions twice. Keep this in mind as you go through the procedure, and also keep in mind that you will be asked to perform two additional trials. All strong science fair projects are replicated at least three times." Does this mean that I should use the three fuel cells three times each (if so that would mean three months of just the project, not to mention the aftermath and putting it all together for the fair) is this correct? Or does it mean only to use the three fuel cells once? If my first statement was correct, then would it be terrible if I only did it twice? (I don't have the time to do three trials...)

thanks for the help
-margo

Hi Margo,

I am not positive but I think you are correct that the three fuel cells represent the three replicates that are recommended for a good science project. The two measurements are commonly done so they can be averaged to increase the accuracy of the readings. As you say, running each of the three fuel cells three times would take way too long!

Good luck!

Sybee