Science News

Chemistry at the Gordon

Our Year 12 Chemistry students recently participated in a Chemistry workshop at the Gordon.

The students got to observe the analysis of the sodium content of sports drinks using atomic emission spectroscopy, and used colourimetry to determine the amount of active ingredient in different aspirin tablets.

Part of this process involved the students developing their own calibration graphs by preparing a series of standard solutions. The data collected indicated their dilution and laboratory procedures were of an exceptional standard.  Unfortunately, the analysis of the ethanol content of wine by gas chromatography was interrupted by a fire alarm and subsequent evacuation, adding another memorable moment to our excursion. Luckily it was a false alarm!

The Science Experiment

From the 14th-16th of January this year (2015) I completed the ConocoPhillips Science Experience program at The University of Melbourne. 
Over the three days we were put into groups of eight to ten and participated in YSA (Young Scientists of Australia) activities including an egg drop challenge and a fast paced trivia match. 
Workers from Engineers Without Borders also set us engineering challenges in bridge and raft building, which were completed within a time limit and budget. 
During our time on campus we also attended lectures and workshops on the topic of Optics, Genetics, Sensory Perception, Geology, Archaeology and Physics before completing an excursion to the Melbourne Museum, which allowed us behind the scenes access. My group was taken to visit the basement in which precious stones and minerals that aren’t on display were housed, along with fossils that have been newly discovered or are currently being studied.

Overall it was a fabulous new and exciting experience that I have found invaluable. You meet new friends and learn something new everyday. I suggest that if you are interested in the field of science that you give this program a look.

Tanya Dalton 10D