Jump to content

Physics Extended Essay on Indices of Refraction Help!


jennyweaver

Recommended Posts

Hello everyone!

I've been having difficulty finalizing a topic for my Physics Extended Essay. From the beginning I've wanted to do something with measuring Indices of Refraction, but it's been difficult narrowing it down and making it a good topic.

My most recent idea has been measuring the indices of refraction for varying salt concentrations, but I need to now apply it to a real life situation, a 'practical application'. I'm thinking the best place to find a practical application of it would be something in the oceans, perhaps relating to climate chance and the fact that the worlds oceans are getting saltier.

I would really appreciate any help on finalizing my topic. You guys are the best!

Jenny

Link to post
Share on other sites

I'm not sure of what the specifications are for the Physics EE, but you could focus on the albedo of sea-ice and water. It's not exactly refraction, but is still in the general area of optics. As sea water freezes it increases the salinity of the nearby water, thus affecting circulation currents, etc.

http://psc.apl.washington.edu/HLD/ArcticChange12/2012_Lect2_Woodgate_SeaiceHO.pdf

Here's a diagram I found that will help you out. Also, make sure to check out the Physics EE guide the IBO puts out. http://occ.ibo.org/ibis/documents/dp/drq/extended_essay/d_0_eeyyy_gui_0903_1_e.pdf

This IB topic would most likely count as a "Data-Based" approach.

You should be able to find data from governmental sources for this topic, and you always have academic journals to look at too.

Link to post
Share on other sites

Join the conversation

You can post now and register later. If you have an account, sign in now to post with your account.

Guest
Reply to this topic...

×   Pasted as rich text.   Paste as plain text instead

  Only 75 emoji are allowed.

×   Your link has been automatically embedded.   Display as a link instead

×   Your previous content has been restored.   Clear editor

×   You cannot paste images directly. Upload or insert images from URL.

×
×
  • Create New...