Science Buddies: "Ask an Expert"

I am a junior and I would like to do a ISEF Physics project about Classical Mechanics, because it is the branch of Physics that most interests me. However, my problem is my knowledge of Classical Mechanics and Physics is very limited. I've only done an introductory Calculus based Physics course (Resnick Halliday's Fundamentals Of Physics), and so I don't know what to do. It's very hard to see what original research I can do for ISEF with such limited knowledge of Physics.

As for what I want my branch of Classical Mechanics I want my project to be about? I'm not sure. The topics that have most interested my in Resnick Halliday are gravitation and angular momentum, so maybe something about that. Also, I wouldn't mind doing so experimental work, but I would like the project involve at least some calculation, because the mathematics is one of my favourite parts of Physics. Again, is this possible even though the only math I've done up to is AP Calculus BC?

So I'm here asking 3 things:
1. Is it possible to do a Physics project with such limited knowledge of Physics?

2. What resources would you suggest for me at my level to help me come up with ideas? Any journals, etc for people at my level to come up with ideas for ISEF? What would you suggest for me to use to come up with inspiration?

3. Would a project looking at a novel solution to an old problem be acceptable? Is that possible even with my Physics level and my math level (I've done up to AP Calculus BC, but not more).

Thank you so much!

Hi scienceguy12341,

Congratulations on deciding to pursue an ISEF physics project. I have no experience with advanced science fairs but I'll try to answer your questions. Perhaps other forum contributors with ISEF knowledge will chime in.

1. Yes, you should go forward with your physics project. Keep in mind that the objective of research is to learn something. And your project will be a great learning opportunity.

2. Some useful resources for getting started with your project can be found here:

https://student.societyforscience.org/s ... -resources

Also, you might want to take a look at Science Buddies Science Fair Project Guide:

https://www.sciencebuddies.org/science- ... ience-fair

The Advanced Project Guide may be of particular interest:

https://www.sciencebuddies.org/science- ... mpetitions

And you may find some inspiration from one of the projects listed here:

https://www.sciencebuddies.org/science- ... as/physics

3. A new solution to an old problem would be acceptable and could make a very good project. In fact I think that quite a bit of research work fits this description.

I hope this helps and good luck with your project. Please ask again if you have more questions.

A. Norman