Colder Than the Depths of Space: Cold atoms and Diffractometer Corrine, Ashlee, Rebecca, Elena, Sophie and Caitlin Mater Christi College, Belgrave

Prior understandings of science Corrine‘Science is life.’ Ash‘Science is a complicated way of explaining things.’ Elena‘Anything and everything around us, is an example of Science.’ Sophie‘Science is interesting.’ Caitlin‘A representation of our current understanding of normality; a currency reliant upon ingenuity, research and justification.’

How we will achieve this goal: To build a basic diffraction spectrometer to show the technique of diffracting light into its coloured components. The project goal: Materials: Shoe box DVD (a CD would not work because of the larger diffraction gratings) Scissors/tape/Stanley knife etc. Black paper Tubes

What is diffraction? Diffraction is the process in which a wave of light spreads out due to the interaction with an object or material which has a diffraction grating. It is created when the diffraction grating interferes with the light source.

How is this project related to a real world problem? What role does physics play? Not directly related However- used in labs which develop ‘everyday’ technology Street lamps; fibre optics (broadband) Medical imaging (proteins) Tuning telescopes and other equipment A fundamental understanding of matter and energy The interaction between these factors Example: Diffraction is the bending of light through space and it is through this relationship that we can measure many variables (such as wavelength and the width of the visible spectrum in any given context)

Attitude/personal expectations: Limited knowledge Very complicated No practical/hand-on opportunities Understanding of link with maths- this makes it hard Physics is not quite as versatile as chemistry or biology Physics answers philosophical questions logically Research/sources: Our mentors: Jack and Hayden Limited prior knowledge (from school science and maths classes)

Importance of research: Scientific research at universities: Develops crucial scientific advances Nurtures skills and experience in students Ensures future of Australian science Economic propulsion/stimulus Can be applied to future technology Credible and well respected source of information Students/educational institutions Governments/policy makers Our research during this program: Nurtured a further passion for science; motivation to continue with science into VCE and beyond Exemplified the possibilities of science careers; the ‘cold atoms’ lab

Importance of research continued: The research was interesting and unlike any classroom experience We are more likely to take up physics in VCE and beyond We have a further understanding of exactly how useful physics is and where it can be applied

How is diffraction relevant to community and society?? Science is an important economic stimulant Jobs Value of technology in exports Enhances our modern way of life (broadband, medical, personal technologies) Contributes to other research For example, diffraction is used in tuning lasers which are used to create cold atoms for imaging

How has our view of science or scientists changed? Reaffirmed our contention that physicists are ‘normal people’, however their intelligence and skill in their field are essential in science and wider life Generally, our perceptions about scientists have not changed drastically, however it has been exciting to see that our understanding was mostly correct Our view of science was that it was highly theoretical, complicated, mathematical and difficult beyond the classroom. Our experience has been quite the opposite; though we have not understood every concept thoroughly we have experienced science outside of the classroom as a career and this has been incredibly exciting!!!

Am I capable, do I belong? In relation to how to my capabilities, have I changed my view of my capacity to do the sciences especially physics? Has my concept of belonging to this group of careers changed

What Have We Learnt? Experimental techniques Creating methods to test results ‘Trial and error’ Team Work Problem Solving Communication Observation Deeper and more meaningful thinking

What choices have opened up to me In Possible Career Choices? Bureau of Meteorology Economics Commercial lasers Nanotechnology Computing Medical Astronomy How important is it to know the types of jobs you can follow to the subject choices you make? Before taking up studies, it is useful to have an understanding of where you would like to take that knowledge, and how you can apply it to help other people. This knowledge will not only motivate you and direct your learning toward possible careers, but provide an opportunity to do research on that job before your studies have concluded so that you have the best chance of obtaining that job.

How has being part of GTP changed my appreciation for physical science? The connection between the problem/principle being explored and real life context makes physics easy to appreciate and be interested by The university experience makes physics pathways seem more attainable and even more fascinating Working with mentors who are also scientists is intriguing and invaluable The motivation they display to share the basics of their science with secondary students is extremely encouraging They present themselves and the program in a way which makes physics interesting and further convinces us that physics is in the interest of the world

Acknowledgements Our mentors: Haydn & Yaakov Melbourne University School of Physics The Growing Tall Poppies Program Team