Science Buddies: "Ask an Expert"

I am working on the project how far can sparks jump. I am interested in learning how this applies to real world applications to make the experiment more interesting to classmates. What are the implications of how far a spark jumps?

Spark plugs in your automobile? What about the way your gas stove lights (If you have a modern pilotless stove).

Thank you for your response. Are there any other applications that you can think of that might be of interest to the age group of pre-teens?

Hi smr,

It sounds like you are working on the project described in the science buddies website:

https://www.sciencebuddies.org/science- ... p032.shtml

I can think of a couple of applications that should be of interest to your age group. Flying sparks from chain saws, automobiles, and other equipment can be a cause of grass and forest fires. Also flying sparks are also the cause of the shocks cause by static electricity in cold, dry weather.

You might also try posting this question on the physical science forum. The scientists who answer on that forum are more familiar with flying sparks than those of us who answer life science questions.

Good luck!

Donna Hardy