material science - Science Teacher Stuff

Acoustic Levitation: How Sound Waves Are Revolutionizing Lab-Free Chemistry

November 16, 2024

A futuristic laboratory filled with gleaming chrome and glass, bathed in cool, blue light. A complex array of ultrasonic transducers emits invisible sound waves that suspend a tiny, shimmering droplet of liquid in mid-air. The droplet, a vibrant shade of green, is surrounded by a faint blue halo, suggesting the presence of sound waves. Behind the levitating droplet, a scientist in a white lab coat, silhouetted against a backdrop of colorful chemical vials, stares intently at the droplet through a high-tech microscope, mesmerized by the intricate dance of molecules. The image should convey a sense of scientific wonder, precision, and the transformative power of sound waves.

The amazing field of sonic levitation is changing our approach of doing chemical reactions without conventional containers. By means of my studies with acoustic levitation in pharmaceutical research, I have seen how sound waves can hold droplets mid-air, thereby generating a contamination-free surroundings for chemical interactions. Particularly groundbreaking for research on protein crystallization and new ...

The Weird World of Non-Newtonian Fluids

November 8, 2024

A surreal and colorful illustration depicting the bizarre nature of non-Newtonian fluids. Imagine a vibrant, almost abstract scene where a hand plunges into a pool of shimmering, blue "oobleck," causing it to solidify into a solid-like form. The background could feature a blend of swirling, dynamic shapes and patterns representing the unpredictable flow of these fluids. The scene should evoke a sense of both wonder and scientific curiosity, capturing the interplay between science and art. Incorporate elements of abstract expressionism, highlighting the fluid and dynamic nature of the subject.

Non-Newtonian fluids defy the traditional rules of viscosity, changing their flow behavior under stress. From the fun of running across a pool filled with cornstarch and water to the science behind how these fluids can become solid under impact, this article dives into their quirky properties. A hands-on experiment at a science fair where I ...