Engaging Students in the use of multiple wavelengths to probe the interior of an object at MAL!
2-hour STEM experience done with support from JMU student volunteers!
- Program’s idea:
Show how one can use multiple wavelengths to probe the interior of an object. Using MAL’s X-ray imaging facility, we will take several objects that are “hidden” and discuss what we can learn about them from observations at both visual wavelengths and other wavelengths, specifically X-rays. The students would be presented with several small “boxes” and asked to what they could learn about the objects – given rulers, scales (for masses). They then would be shown how X-rays could provide a different “interior view” of the same box.
- Program’s authenticity:
In science, one has to bring multiple techniques and viewpoints to understand the situation – no one technique is enough, especially for complex problems like health science or ecology.
- Program’s relevance:
X-rays are used for medicine – seeing how certain parts of your body are doing. They also allow one to find cracks in airframes or pipes.
- Program’s space:
At MAL there is a classroom that holds 24 students right next to the X-ray imaging facility – and it is located conveniently to the Planetarium – so buses can drop off students easily. With supervision, smaller groups of students can go and see X-rays (and perhaps some optical spectra) being taken of their boxes in real time – though the data will also be “pre-taken” so that students can have something to study when in the classroom.
Contact Person: Dr. Harold Butner