Science Buddies: "Ask an Expert"

Dear Science Buddies,

I was wondering if you'd help me with my science fair topic?? I'm having a really hard time find information about it (How do three dimensional figures affect the speed at which a fruit decays?). I've looked up information every day for hours, and tried all the search words that I could possibly think of, but didn't find much data. I've basically been trying to learn whether pyramids actually preserve fruit (when they're placed under it), and if any other geometric figure does. I've found some info. on pyramid power, but some data contradicts other sites' information. What should I use??!!?? Also, I haven't had much luck finding information on whether other figures have "mythical powers" or not. Believe me, I've tried EVERYTHING; internet, library, articles, but still, nothing? Can you help me?

Thank you for your time and I hope that you can get back to me soon.
Thanks again(!),
Doree

Hi Doree,

That's a really interesting question you're posting. I've never heard anything like it before.

I can't address the question directly, and it sounds like you've exhausted the typical resources. Why don't you define your question a little better. It seems as though you want to test whether different geometric shapes (I'm assuming things like pyramids, cubes, spheres, etc) would have different effects on fruit preservation. Let's try backing up a step.

Assuming that pyramids preserve fruit, what are the factors that could be affected? If you compare directly fruit under a pyramid versus fruit sitting on a table, what are the differences between the two? The first obvious thing that comes to my mind is air flow, but I'm sure there are other things as well. (Hint: Think about the air inside of the pyramid).

I'm sure if you break it down into the components, you can research the effect of those individual components on fruit decay. And then you can compare your different geometric shapes in terms of those properties.

I hope this makes sense. If you need more help, please reply to this post.

Good luck!

Linh Pham
Expert
Graduate student in immunology

Search on how to measure fruit decay, rather than on pyramids or other geometric shapes.

You can then adapt the experimental methods to your specific approach.