Alexander Graham Bell

...

In seventh grade, my class conducted this very experiment. Unlike Bell, however, my class explicitly followed the scientific method. We came up with the researchable question: Will a candle in water float while it is lit? We then researched buoyancy, found the density of wax and molten wax, and measured the original masses of our candles.

My group hypothesized that the candle would float because as the wax melted, its density would decrease and it would therefore float easily. Also, the candle became lighter as some of the wax was burned and changed into smoke. We later conducted the same experiments Bell conducted. After the experiments, we drew the conclusion that our hypothesis was correct because it was supported by our observations. Finally, we communicated our results by making rudimentary lab reports. Having conducted the experiment myself, before I even knew that Bell had conducted them as well, helped me understand why Bell urged others to recreate his experiment. When experienced first hand, one has a greater understanding of why the candles floated as they became increasingly heavier. There truly is a great difference between reading the results of this experiment and performing it. I, in turn, encourage others to conduct this experiment. It is fast, easy, and thought inducing.

As I embark on my STEM Project, I will be sure to follow the scientific method diligently. I have already come up with a researchable question; therefore I have already completed the first step of the method. Next I will research the antimicrobial properties of Bixa orellana. Then I will hypothesize about the effect Bixa orellana will have on several types of gram-positive bacteria. After that I will conduct various experiments involving bacteria and Bixa orellana extracts. Finally, I will present my project at the STEM fair.

Literature Cited:

Bell, Alexander G. “Simple Experiments”. The Volta Review, April 1912.