Four Benjamin Logan High School students received a “superior” rating with their science fair projects and will be advancing to the District Science Day 2023, slated for Saturday, March 25, at the Ohio Northern University’s Mathile Center for the Natural Sciences.
Students advancing to the district event are Tristan Sheets, Kelley Forsythe, Dylan Vance and Winnie Bodin.
Tristan’s project focuses on discovering the most efficient method to produce hydrogen and oxygen gas through the process of electrolysis. He tested variables such as water temperature, electric current strength, and electrolyte concentration in order to determine the most favorable conditions for producing large amounts of gas.
His experiments have an important practical application in the real world as well; new technologies such as hydrogen cars, hydrogen fuel cells, hydrogen-based renewables, and hydrogen-based rocket fuels continue to develop and shape our future, school officials noted.
Tristan would encourage anyone considering participation in a science fair to do so, as it represents a perfect opportunity to research something that you find interesting.
“You can also earn a variety of prizes, meet new people, and sharpen your critical thinking skills,” he said.
Kelley’s project examined how different conservation methods affect the distribution of nutrients in the soil profile.
“I looked at three different fields that were each taken care of differently. Then I tested the different levels of the profile for 4 different types of nutrients. The science fair is such a great experience and I learned so much while doing my project,” she said.
Dylan’s project looked at the presence of microplastics within Indian Lake. He gathered from three separate beaches (from four locations). He was able to test one sample and found a concentration of 11 microplastics within a 346.79 gram sample. The sample he found the plastics was from Fox Island.
His participation in science fair has taught him a lot, he said, including finding a new appreciation for the sciences. He also discovered the vast amount of harm that plastics can cause on the environment.
“Science fair is a once in a lifetime opportunity for someone to discover something they love,” Dylan said. “I encourage each and every student to present their projects because it builds presenting skills and confidence which can be applied to other areas in life.”
Winnie’s project dealt with an assessment of the Mad River over five years. Sites were tested for diatoms, macroinvertebrates and chemical characteristics once every three months over the course of a year.
Macroinvertebrates were collected using the kick seine technique, they were identified and a pollution tolerance index was recorded based on the taxa collected. Chemical assessment was performed using A.P.I. (Aquariums Pharmaceuticals Inc.) Freshwater Master Testing Kit. Water was tested for pH, ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate levels.
Dissolved oxygen and water temperature was also measured each time using vernier probes.
Her hypothesis was that the Mad River water quality would be poor consistent with previous years of research showing poor quality because it is lacking a wooded riparian zone which would offer shade. Winnie’s hypothesis was partly supported because the PTI was poor, however the chemical parameter and oxygen levels were satisfactory.
“Science fair has benefited me as a student in a multitude of ways,” she said. “First of all, it has allowed me to become a better public speaker. Science fair has also helped me to perform well under pressure and to think quickly on my feet. As well as to be able to craft a lengthy research paper. Learning how to chart/graph the variety of results has also been something that I have benefited from.
“Finally, the willpower to continue collecting data over five years has also helped me grow in my preservation and dedication.”