Science Buddies: "Ask an Expert"

(I posted this on the "Getting Ready for the Fair" board Monday, but no replies so I thought I'd try here. Thanks.)

My 7th grader is doing a variation on the "Take a Musical Step Back in Time" project. I'd like a little help filling out the forms for our state science fair.

1. Would you consider this a "physics" or "mechanical engineering" project?

2. The review committee for the fair says that surveying volunteers to evaluate which diaphragm makes the best sound does not require human subjects forms, but we need to fill out Form 3 "Risk Assessment" and notify volunteers of any safety rules and risks before participating.

I just brainstormed a few ideas here -- are we missing anything? Don't get hair caught in the gears. (She built her record player out of K'Nex, there are exposed moving parts.) Don't put your ear too close until you hear the sound from a distance. Stop if it hurts your ears. (Somehow I doubt this thing is going to be that loud, but you never know, right?)

Can I put as sources for safety information "Common sense" or do we need to find references? What sort of references would be appropriate?

Thanks,

janet_425

Here are my answers to your questions:

1. Would you consider this a "physics" or "mechanical engineering" project?

It's both, really. On the physics side, your student is studying the physics of vibration. On the engineering side, your student is studying multiple designs in order to come up with the best solution - that's engineering. For a science fair project, I'd classify it as a PHYSICS project.

2. The review committee for the fair says that surveying volunteers to evaluate which diaphragm makes the best sound does not require human subjects forms, but we need to fill out Form 3 "Risk Assessment" and notify volunteers of any safety rules and risks before participating.

I just brainstormed a few ideas here -- are we missing anything? Don't get hair caught in the gears. (She built her record player out of K'Nex, there are exposed moving parts.) Don't put your ear too close until you hear the sound from a distance. Stop if it hurts your ears. (Somehow I doubt this thing is going to be that loud, but you never know, right?)

Can I put as sources for safety information "Common sense" or do we need to find references? What sort of references would be appropriate?

I feel your comments about the gears and getting hair caught are just fine. I see no need to cite references in this case.

Congratulations on working with you student on this. You will both learn a lot.

Good luck, and have fun!

Thanks for your help!

--Janet