Part 1: Topography of the Unknown

Objectives
Students will:
· Create an observation box
· Measure how deep a probe can be inserted into the box
· Determine the relationship between the depth the probe is inserted and the   height(s) of the object inside the box
· Determine the height of the object inside the box at various observation points
· Record the height of the object at each observation point
· Draw a topographic map to show the changes in surface height
· Analyze the topographic map to describe the surface structure
· Critique the instrument (the height probe) and how it is used.


Relevant Vocabulary
*Structure the arrangement of particles or parts in an object
*Probe any of various testing devices, such as: 1.) A pointed metal tip for making electrical contact with a circuit element being checked. 2.) Usually small object that is inserted into something so as to test conditions at a given point 3.) A device used to penetrate or send back information especially from outer space or a celestial body. 4.) A device (as an ultrasound generator) or a substance (as DNA genetic research) used to obtain specific information for diagnostic or experimental purposes.
*Characterization the process of determining the properties and/or structure of a material
*Scan (verb) to examine systematically, point by point with a sensing device.
(noun) An image of an object that has been scanned in the above manner.

Materials Needed
(For the teacher)
       · Scoring Guide for yourself
       · Scoring Guide for overhead
       · Scoring Guide for each student (optional)
(One set of materials per group of 2-3 students)
       · Observation box: Small shallow cardboard box           (approximately 3×3×2) such as a jewelry box
         · Height Probe: Straightened paperclip or thin wooden,           plastic or metal stick at least 6 inches long
         · Random objects of different shapes that fit into the box.           (if combining with lesson two, objects should attract or           repel magnets)
         · Student Guide 1 (one for each student)
         · 3 pieces of scan paper or graph paper
         · Thumbtack
         · Ruler
         · Pen
         · Glue-stick
         · Scissors
(For the class)
       · Glue Gun
       · Decorating Material - crayons, markers, construction           paper, tape, etc. (Optional)
       · Tape


Time:
One or two 45 minute class periods

 


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This work was supported by the Center on Polymer Interfaces and Macromolecular Assemblies (CPIMA)
as part of the NSF Materials Science and Engineering Center program under Grant DMR 9808677

Copyright 1996 - 2003, Leland Stanford Junior University. All rights reserved.