Science Buddies: "Ask an Expert"

This project of science buddies has proved to be very confusing for the teacher and student. First of all in your outline the results are if the jello changes shape. The teacher says it must be measured in volume not just a change in shape. Next we are having trouble with the independent and dependent variables. Need help what are they?? Teacher does not agree with me. We have figured out the volume thing however we need assistance with the variables. Want to do experiment this weekend help!!

Hi LarryCotten,

Thanks for posting and taking interest in one of the projects!

What was your solution to calculate volume? You can make all jello pieces into cube of fixed length and that way you can calculate the volume (V=a^3).

The dependent variable is the shape. As for the independent variable, this would be the protease solution or the red water. The goal of this project is to show how proteases present in the stomach affect molecules (drugs); therefore, you should only concert yourself with the shape of the jello, which is the only really significant variable here.

Hope this helps!
Peter S.