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Ultimate Guide to a stellar IB Physics Extended Essay (EE): Tips, Tricks and Expert Guidance!

Ib Physics Extended Essay (EE) Thriving Scholars

Ultimate Guide to the IB Physics Extended Essay

Are you preparing to tackle your IB Physics Extended Essay and looking for impactful topics, insightful writing tips, and expert guidance? You've landed in the right place! This post will provide you with essential information and strategies to help you craft a compelling IB Physics EE.

As an IB Physics student, the task of writing a 4000-word extended essay (EE) is an exciting yet formidable challenge. Selecting a topic that is engaging and manageable is crucial to ensuring your EE stands out. In this blog post, I will walk you through a clear, step-by-step method to develop the perfect IB Physics EE research question.

Guide to Develop Your IB Physics EE Ultimate Research Question:

Choose a Broad Topic : Begin with a wide-ranging area of interest, such as the physics of sound.

Generate a Starter Question : Use this question to spark ideas for narrowing your focus.

Formulate Your Research Question : Concentrate on one independent variable and one dependent variable.

Sketch Out a Research Plan : Outline the methods you'll use to explore your research question.

Envision a Potential Outcome : Predict the possible results or conclusions of your study.

Once you’ve completed these steps, you will have a comprehensive plan ready to discuss with your Physics EE supervisor. They will offer further guidance on conducting your practical experiments in your school’s lab facilities.

Choosing Your IB Physics EE Topics

The first step in your EE journey is selecting a topic that not only interests you but also allows you to apply the principles of physics. An excellent IB Physics EE topic should challenge you to think critically and apply scientific theories to real-world phenomena. For instance, exploring the relationship between the viscosity of a fluid and its effect on terminal velocity presents a perfect blend of theory and practical investigation.

How to Write an IB Physics EE

Writing an IB Physics Extended Essay involves several key components. Your essay should start with a clear title that encapsulates your research. Following this, your research question should be precise and presented early in the introduction. It is vital to frame this question in a way that invites scientific investigation—ask "What is the relationship between X and Y?" rather than simply stating a hypothesis.

Methods of Approach

You have the choice between a theoretical essay or an experimental study. If you decide on an experimental approach, consider whether you will gather primary data or rely on secondary sources. When using secondary data for your IB Physics EE, ensure you critically assess its accuracy and relevance to your research question. This approach will not only enhance the validity of your study but also demonstrate your analytical skills.

Importance of Theory in IB Physics EE

No matter the nature of your experimental work, it should always be grounded in robust theoretical research. This involves detailed exploration of the relevant physical laws and principles that govern the phenomena you are studying. For example, if your topic concerns the acoustics of an exhaust pipe, you should delve into the physics of sound waves and how they interact with different environments.

IB Physics Extended Essay Tips

Here are some quick tips to enhance your IB Physics EE:

- Keep your research question focused and manageable.

- Ensure your experimental methods are clear and replicable.

- Engage with theoretical concepts to deepen your analysis.

- Avoid overly complex apparatus that might obscure the physics concepts you're exploring.

Ultimately, this post aims to provide a launching pad, illustrating the breadth of potential topics within physics that are ripe for a detailed extended essay. With dedicated research and thoughtful analysis, you can craft a compelling, insightful essay that showcases your enthusiasm and understanding of physics.

Ultimate Sample Topic list to the Physics EE:

Topic 1: The Effect of Temperature on the Electrical Resistance of Metals

Begin with a detailed study of electrical resistivity, focusing on how and why different metals respond to changes in temperature. Review academic literature and scientific texts that discuss the principles of electrical conductivity and the impact of thermal energy on atomic structures in metals.

Experimentation

Design an experiment to measure the resistance of several metals (like copper, aluminum, and iron) at various temperatures. This will involve heating metal wires in a controlled environment and using a multimeter to measure changes in resistance.

Data Analysis

Analyze the collected data to determine how the resistance of each metal changes with temperature. Use graphical representations to highlight the relationship and apply statistical tools to validate the findings.

Results and Conclusion

Conclude by summarizing the relationship between temperature and resistance for the metals tested. Discuss the implications of these findings in real-world applications, such as in electrical engineering and materials science. Highlight the limitations of the experiments and suggest areas for further research.

Topic 2: Investigating the Refractive Index of Liquids with Temperature

Explore the theory behind light refraction and how the refractive index of a substance changes with temperature. Gather resources on the molecular dynamics of liquids and how thermal expansion affects optical properties.

Set up an experiment to measure the refractive index of various liquids (such as water, glycerin, and vegetable oil) at different temperatures using a refractometer or a similar device.

Process the experimental data to examine the correlation between temperature and the refractive index. Utilize models to predict changes and discuss the accuracy of these models compared to the experimental data.

Discuss how the refractive index variation with temperature can affect optical applications, like lens design and optical fiber technology. Consider the experimental design's effectiveness and propose modifications for future studies.

Topic 3: The Doppler Effect and Its Applications

Study the Doppler Effect thoroughly, focusing on its theoretical basis and its applications in various fields such as astronomy, radar, and medical imaging. Review historical development and key experiments that have shaped understanding of the phenomenon.

Conduct experiments to observe the Doppler Effect using sound waves. This could involve recording the frequency of a sound from a moving source at various speeds and distances.

Analyze the frequency changes and compare them with theoretical predictions. Use software tools to simulate the effect under different conditions and compare these simulations with your experimental data.

Evaluate how well the experimental and simulated results align with theoretical expectations. Discuss the implications of the Doppler Effect in modern technology and potential areas for future research.

Topic 4: Measuring the Gravitational Constant Using Simple Pendulum

Review the historical context of gravitational studies and Newton’s law of universal gravitation. Study different methods that have been used to measure the gravitational constant, focusing on the role of pendulums.

Design a series of experiments to measure the gravitational constant using a simple pendulum setup. This involves varying lengths of the pendulum and measuring oscillation periods accurately.

Apply mathematical formulas to calculate the gravitational constant from the experimental data. Compare these findings with accepted values and analyze discrepancies.

Summarize the effectiveness of using a simple pendulum to measure gravitational forces. Discuss potential experimental errors or environmental factors that could affect accuracy and suggest improvements for further experiments.

Topic 5: Photovoltaic Efficiency in Different Light Conditions

Investigate the principles of photovoltaic cells and how their efficiency is influenced by different wavelengths and intensities of light. Explore both theoretical perspectives and practical implementations in solar technology.

Set up solar cells under varied lighting conditions to measure output voltage and current. Use different types of light sources, such as LED, halogen, and natural sunlight.

Analyze how light intensity and type affect the efficiency of the solar cells. Use the data to model performance in real-world solar applications.

Discuss how the findings could impact the design and placement of solar panels in different environments. Evaluate the limitations of the current technology and propose future research directions for improving photovoltaic efficiency.

Each of these topics provides a balance of theoretical background and practical experimentation, suitable for an extended essay in IB Physics that includes historical context and offers scope for innovative investigation.

As IB Puts it:

The IB Physics Extended Essay emphasizes several key aspects:

Practical Experimentation : Students apply theoretical physics principles through hands-on experiments, enhancing their understanding of complex concepts.

Simulation Use : Simulations allow exploration of phenomena that are difficult to study directly, enriching students' understanding and equipping them with valuable computational skills.

Interdisciplinary Approaches : Students are encouraged to incorporate knowledge from other sciences, leading to more comprehensive research projects that prepare them for complex problem-solving.

Peer Review : Engaging with supervisors, peers, and external experts through peer review offers diverse perspectives and improves the quality of research.

Preparation for STEM Careers : The extended essay develops critical skills like analytical thinking and problem-solving, providing a strong foundation for future academic and professional pursuits in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

IB Physics tutoring online ThrivingScholars

Finding an IB Physics Extended Essay Tutor

Sometimes, you might find yourself needing extra help. An experienced IB Physics extended essay tutor can provide you with the guidance necessary to navigate complex topics and refine your writing. A tutor can help you develop a strong theoretical foundation and ensure your essay meets all the critical assessment criteria. If you're seeking specialized IB Physics IA or EE help, Rajat Sir offers tailored IB support to guide you through the process.

Personalized Feedback on IAs and EEs:

Rajat Sir has a proven track record of helping students secure perfect 7s on their Math and Physics IAs. The unique approach includes:

Detailed Review: Send your IA/EE/TOK Essay, and Rajat Sir will provide comments and suggestions.

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Iterative Process: Work on the suggestions and repeat the process until your IA reaches its highest potential.

If you're at the initial stages or struggling with writing, Rajat Sir can assist in topic selection and the writing phase.

Online Personal Tutoring:

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Tutoring Offered For:

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The IB Physics Extended Essay is an excellent opportunity for you to demonstrate your understanding of physics and your ability to perform independent research. By choosing a compelling topic, employing a robust methodological approach, and applying critical theoretical perspectives, you'll be well on your way to achieving a high score on your EE. Remember, the journey of exploring, writing, and refining your essay is as important as the final product. Good luck!

IB Physics Extended Essay Topics for IB

Table of contents

Writing Metier

What’s up, IB scholars? You’re about to start writing your IB Physics Extended Essay, and I know you’re searching for that killer topic that’s going to stand out. Well, guess what? I’ve got over 100 extended essay topics and research questions ready for you.

You do not need to thank me; you better say thank you to our IB writers at Writing Metier , who have invented and forwarded this awesome list to me for submission.

This isn’t just about getting it done; it’s about crushing it with something you’re passionate about. So let’s get straight to the point and find you Physics EE ideas that will make some noise and show what you’ve got!

100+ Physics Extended Essay Topics

I’m breaking the list into ten categories for IB Physics extended essay topics, each with three subcategories for easier navigation:

Projectile Motion (e.g., trajectory analysis, range equations, effects of air resistance)
Circular Motion (e.g., centripetal force in different systems, banking angles, conical pendulums)
Dynamics of Rigid Bodies (e.g., rotational inertia, torque, angular momentum conservation)
Thermodynamics
Heat Transfer (e.g., efficiency of different materials as insulators, rate of cooling, Newton’s law of cooling)
Gas Laws (e.g., pressure-volume relationship, temperature effects, real vs. ideal gases)
Phase Changes (e.g., specific heat capacities, latent heat, cooling curves)
Waves and Oscillations
Harmonic Motion (e.g., pendulums, mass-spring systems, resonance)
Wave Properties (e.g., speed of sound in various media, diffraction patterns, polarization)
Sound and Acoustics (e.g., Doppler effect, sound intensity, acoustic properties of materials)
Electricity and Magnetism
Circuit Analysis (e.g., Ohm’s law, series vs. parallel circuits, Kirchhoff’s laws)
Electromagnetism (e.g., Faraday’s law, magnetic fields around conductors, applications of electromagnets)
Capacitance and Inductance (e.g., time constants, LC circuits, energy storage)
Modern Physics
Quantum Phenomena (e.g., photoelectric effect, electron diffraction, energy levels in atoms)
Nuclear Physics (e.g., radioactive decay, half-life, nuclear reactions)
Special Relativity (e.g., time dilation, length contraction, mass-energy equivalence)
Energy and Power
Renewable Energy Sources (e.g., efficiency of solar panels, wind turbine performance, biofuels)
Energy Conversion (e.g., internal combustion engines, thermal power plants, regenerative braking)
Power Transmission (e.g., electrical grid efficiency, power loss, superconductors)
Fluid Dynamics
Aerodynamics (e.g., lift and drag forces, Bernoulli’s principle, airfoil shapes)
Hydrodynamics (e.g., flow rate, viscosity effects, Reynolds number)
Buoyancy and Density (e.g., Archimedes’ principle, floating and sinking, density stratification)
Astrophysics and Cosmology
Stellar Physics (e.g., Hertzsprung-Russell diagram, star classifications, blackbody radiation)
Cosmological Models (e.g., Big Bang theory, cosmic microwave background, dark matter)
Orbital Mechanics (e.g., Kepler’s laws, satellite motion, escape velocity)
Optics and Light
Reflection and Refraction (e.g., Snell’s law, critical angle, optical fibers)
Lens and Mirror Optics (e.g., image formation, focal length, magnification)
Interference and Diffraction (e.g., double-slit experiment, diffraction gratings, holography)
Electromagnetic Waves
Radio and Microwave Radiation (e.g., antenna design, signal propagation, communication systems)
Infrared and Ultraviolet Light (e.g., thermal imaging, UV radiation effects, spectroscopy)
X-rays and Gamma Rays (e.g., medical imaging, radiation therapy, nuclear gamma spectroscopy)

Each of these categories and subcategories can be explored through experiments, data analysis, or theoretical investigation, offering a wide range of possibilities for IB students to develop their IB Physics EE topics.

Mechanics Topics and Research Questions

Projectile Motion

Topic: The effect of launch angle on the range of a projectile.

Research Question: How does changing the launch angle affect the horizontal distance traveled by a projectile?

Topic: The impact of air resistance on the trajectory of a projectile.

Research Question: To what extent does air resistance alter the trajectory of a projectile compared to the idealized motion?

Topic: The accuracy of range equations in predicting projectile motion.

Research Question: How accurately do standard range equations predict the motion of a projectile in a controlled environment?

Circular Motion

Topic: Measuring centripetal force in a rotating system.

Research Question: How does the centripetal force required for circular motion change with the radius and speed of the rotating object?

Topic: The physics of banking angles in road design.

Research Question: What is the optimal banking angle for a curve on a road to maximize friction and safety at a given speed?

Topic: Investigating the period of a conical pendulum.

Research Question: How does the length of the string affect the period of oscillation of a conical pendulum?

Dynamics of Rigid Bodies

Topic: The relationship between rotational inertia and angular acceleration.

Research Question: How does changing the distribution of mass affect the rotational inertia and angular acceleration of a rigid body?

Topic: The conservation of angular momentum in a closed system.

Research Question: How does the angular momentum of a system change when the moment of inertia is altered?

Topic: The effect of torque on rotational motion.

Research Question: How does the application of torque affect the rotational motion of a rigid body with a fixed axis?

Mechanics shows us how things move and what affects them, but when we start talking about thermodynamics, we’re dealing with heat and energy.

It’s like going from watching a ball roll down a hill to understanding why it feels warm to the touch on a sunny day.

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Thermodynamics Topics and Research Questions

Heat Transfer

Topic: Comparing the thermal insulation properties of various materials.

Research Question: Which material provides the best thermal insulation for a given application, and why?

Topic: The rate of cooling of a liquid in different environments.

Research Question: How does the rate of cooling of a hot liquid differ between various environmental conditions?

Topic: Investigating Newton’s law of cooling.

Research Question: How closely does the cooling of a warm object follow Newton’s law of cooling in a real-world setting?

Topic: The pressure-volume relationship of a gas at constant temperature.

Research Question: How does the volume of a gas change with pressure at a constant temperature, and does it align with Boyle’s law?

Topic: Temperature effects on the pressure of an enclosed gas.

Research Question: How does the pressure of a fixed amount of gas change with temperature in a sealed container?

Topic: Real vs. ideal gases under different conditions.

Research Question: How do the behaviors of real gases deviate from the predictions of the ideal gas law under high-pressure conditions?

Phase Changes

Topic: Measuring specific heat capacities of different substances.

Research Question: How do the specific heat capacities of different substances compare, and what implications does this have for their use in heat storage?

Topic: The energy involved in the phase change of materials.

Research Question: How much energy is absorbed or released during the phase change of a substance, and how does this relate to its latent heat?

Topic: Analyzing cooling curves of substances.

Research Question: What can the cooling curve of a substance tell us about its phase change properties and purity?

After getting a grip on how heat works, it’s pretty cool to see how that energy gets around. Waves are all about energy transfer, whether it’s the sound from your speakers or the ripples on a pond when you toss a stone.

Waves and Oscillations Topics and Research Questions

Harmonic Motion

Topic: The period of a simple pendulum.

Research Question: How does the length of a pendulum affect its period, and does this confirm the theoretical model?

Topic: The behavior of mass-spring systems.

Research Question: How do different spring constants affect the oscillation of a mass-spring system?

Topic: Resonance frequencies in mechanical systems.

Research Question: At what frequencies do various mechanical systems resonate, and what factors influence this?

Wave Properties

Topic: Measuring the speed of sound in different media.

Research Question: How does the speed of sound compare in various gases, and what does this tell us about the properties of those gases?

Topic: Investigating diffraction patterns through different apertures.

Research Question: How do diffraction patterns change with the shape and size of apertures?

Topic: Polarization of light by various materials.

Research Question: How effectively can different materials polarize light, and what does this indicate about their structure?

Sound and Acoustics

Topic: The Doppler effect and moving sources.

Research Question: How does the frequency of a sound wave change as the source moves relative to an observer?

Topic: Sound intensity levels at different distances.

Research Question: How does the intensity of sound change with distance from the source, and is it consistent with the inverse square law?

Topic: Acoustic properties of materials in soundproofing.

Research Question: Which materials are most effective at soundproofing a room, and how do their acoustic properties contribute to this effectiveness?

Each of these topics can be tailored to fit the requirements of an IB Physics extended essay, with the research question guiding the experimental design, data collection, and analysis.

If you are interested, we also have a list of potential Physics IA topic ideas for you. Make sure to check them out as well.

Once you’ve got a handle on waves, you’re ready to see how they relate to electricity and magnetism. It’s like connecting the dots between the vibrations in the air and the current in the wires of your headphones.

Electricity and Magnetism Topics and Research Questions

Circuit Analysis

Topic: The resistance of series and parallel circuits.

Research Question: How does the total resistance in a circuit vary with the arrangement of resistors in series and parallel configurations?

Topic: Verification of Kirchhoff’s laws in complex circuits.

Research Question: How accurately do Kirchhoff’s laws predict the current and voltage distribution in a multi-loop circuit?

Topic: The temperature dependence of resistivity in conductors.

Research Question: How does the resistivity of a metallic conductor change with temperature, and what does this imply about electron scattering?

Electromagnetism

Topic: Faraday’s law of electromagnetic induction.

Research Question: How does the rate of change of magnetic flux influence the induced EMF in a coil?

Topic: The magnetic field patterns around different conductor configurations.

Research Question: How do the configurations of conductors affect the shape and strength of the magnetic fields they produce?

Topic: The efficiency of electromagnets.

Research Question: What factors determine the lifting power of an electromagnet, and how can its efficiency be maximized?

Capacitance and Inductance

Topic: Time constants in RC circuits.

Research Question: How does the capacitance and resistance in an RC circuit affect its charging and discharging time constants?

Topic: Resonance in LC circuits.

Research Question: At what conditions does resonance occur in an LC circuit, and how does this affect the circuit’s impedance?

Topic: Energy storage in capacitors and inductors.

Research Question: How do capacitors and inductors store energy, and what factors affect their energy storage capacity?

Electricity and magnetism are pretty easy to see in action, but modern physics? That’s where things get wild. You’re not just looking at what’s in front of you anymore; you’re considering what’s happening on a scale so small or so huge that it bends your mind a bit.

Modern Physics Topics and Research Questions

Quantum Phenomena

Topic: The photoelectric effect and Planck’s constant.

Research Question: How can the photoelectric effect be used to determine Planck’s constant, and what does this reveal about the nature of light?

Topic: Electron diffraction and crystal structure.

Research Question: How does electron diffraction provide evidence for the wave nature of electrons and the structure of crystals?

Topic: Energy levels in hydrogen atoms.

Research Question: How do the observed spectral lines of hydrogen correspond to the theoretical energy levels predicted by quantum mechanics?

Nuclear Physics

Topic: Radioactive decay series.

Research Question: How does the decay series of a radioactive isotope correspond to theoretical predictions of half-life and decay pathways?

Topic: The effect of shielding on radiation intensity.

Research Question: How effective are different materials at shielding against various types of radioactive emissions?

Topic: Nuclear reaction energy calculations.

Research Question: How does the measured energy released in a nuclear reaction compare to the values predicted by the mass-energy equivalence principle?

Special Relativity

Topic: Time dilation observed in cosmic muons.

Research Question: How does the observed decay rate of cosmic muons provide evidence for time dilation effects predicted by special relativity?

Topic: Length contraction and high-speed particles.

Research Question: How can length contraction be demonstrated or inferred from high-speed particle interactions?

Topic: Mass-energy equivalence in particle physics.

Research Question: How does the increase in mass of particles at high velocities provide evidence for the mass-energy equivalence principle?

But even with all that mind-bending stuff, physics isn’t just about theory. It’s also about practical stuff, like how we use energy. From solar panels on your roof to the battery in your phone, it’s all about getting the power we need to do what we want.

Energy and Power Topics and Research Questions

Renewable Energy Sources

Topic: The efficiency of photovoltaic cells under different conditions.

Research Question: How do factors such as light intensity, wavelength, and temperature affect the efficiency of solar panels?

Topic: Performance analysis of wind turbines.

Research Question: How does blade design affect the efficiency and power output of a wind turbine?

Topic: The viability of biofuels compared to fossil fuels.

Research Question: How do the energy outputs and carbon footprints of biofuels compare to those of traditional fossil fuels?

Energy Conversion

Topic: The efficiency of internal combustion engines.

Research Question: How do variables such as fuel type and engine temperature affect the efficiency of an internal combustion engine?

Topic: Thermal efficiency of power plants.

Research Question: What are the main factors that limit the thermal efficiency of modern thermal power plants?

Topic: The effectiveness of regenerative braking systems.

Research Question: How much energy can regenerative braking systems realistically recover during vehicle deceleration?

Power Transmission

Topic: Electrical grid efficiency and power loss.

Research Question: How does the distance and cross-sectional area of transmission lines affect power loss in an electrical grid?

Topic: The potential of superconductors in power transmission.

Research Question: What are the challenges and potential benefits of using superconductors for power transmission?

Topic: The impact of load balancing on power grid stability.

Research Question: How does load balancing affect the stability and efficiency of a power grid?

These topics and research questions are designed to inspire a range of investigations for the Physics Extended Essay, allowing students to delve into both experimental and theoretical aspects of physics.

And speaking of practical, fluid dynamics is all about understanding how liquids and gases move. It’s like figuring out why blowing over a hot soup cools it down or how an airplane stays up in the sky.

Fluid Dynamics Topics and Research Questions

Aerodynamics

Topic: The effect of airfoil shape on lift generation.

Research Question: How does altering the curvature and angle of an airfoil affect its lift and drag forces?

Topic: Application of Bernoulli’s principle to various wing designs.

Research Question: How do different wing designs in aircraft utilize Bernoulli’s principle to achieve lift?

Topic: Drag force comparison on streamlined vs. bluff bodies.

Research Question: How does the shape of an object affect the drag force experienced at different flow velocities?

Hydrodynamics

Topic: The relationship between flow rate and pipe diameter in fluid dynamics.

Research Question: How does changing the diameter of a pipe affect the flow rate of a fluid within it, given a constant pressure difference?

Topic: Viscosity effects on fluid flow in channels.

Research Question: How does the viscosity of a fluid influence its flow characteristics in narrow channels?

Topic: Analysis of Reynolds number in predicting fluid flow regimes.

Research Question: How does the Reynolds number determine the transition from laminar to turbulent flow in a pipe?

Buoyancy and Density

Topic: Investigating Archimedes’ principle for irregularly shaped objects.

Research Question: How accurately does Archimedes’ principle predict the buoyant force on objects with complex shapes?

Topic: The stability of floating bodies and the concept of metacentric height.

Research Question: How does the distribution of mass affect the stability of a floating vessel?

Topic: Density stratification in fluids and its impact on layered flow.

Research Question: How does density stratification affect the movement and mixing of different fluid layers?

From there, it’s a big leap to astrophysics and cosmology—literally. You go from studying the flow of air around a plane to the flow of galaxies in space. It’s about seeing the bigger picture and our place in it.

If you need Physics paper writing help , we have a separate team of experts who can handle almost any tasks.

Astrophysics and Cosmology Topics and Research Questions

Stellar Physics

Topic: Analyzing the Hertzsprung-Russell diagram for star clusters.

Research Question: What can the Hertzsprung-Russell diagram reveal about the age and composition of a star cluster?

Topic: Classification and analysis of star spectra.

Research Question: How does the classification of stellar spectra correlate with a star’s temperature, luminosity, and lifecycle stage?

Topic: Investigating blackbody radiation in stars.

Research Question: How well does the blackbody radiation model fit the observed spectral energy distribution of stars?

Cosmological Models

Topic: Evidence for the Big Bang theory from cosmic microwave background radiation.

Research Question: What does the cosmic microwave background radiation tell us about the origins and evolution of the universe?

Topic: The role of dark matter in galaxy formation and rotation.

Research Question: How does the presence of dark matter influence the rotational speeds of galaxies?

Topic: Verifying Kepler’s laws through observation of planetary motion.

Research Question: How accurately do Kepler’s laws describe the motion of bodies in the solar system?

Orbital Mechanics

Topic: The energy requirements for satellite launch and achieving escape velocity.

Research Question: What are the energy considerations and optimal conditions for a satellite to achieve escape velocity from Earth?

Topic: The effects of orbital perturbations on satellite stability.

Research Question: How do factors such as atmospheric drag and gravitational influences affect the stability of satellite orbits?

Topic: Analysis of gravitational slingshot maneuvers in space missions.

Research Question: How can gravitational assist maneuvers be optimized to increase spacecraft velocity?

But even with our heads in the stars, we can’t forget about light. Optics brings it back down to earth, showing us how light works, whether it’s bending through a lens or bouncing off a mirror.

Optics and Light Topics and Research Questions

Reflection and Refraction

Topic: The efficiency of optical fibers in transmitting light.

Research Question: How do imperfections in optical fibers affect the total internal reflection and efficiency of light transmission?

Topic: Investigating Snell’s law at various interfaces.

Research Question: How accurately does Snell’s law predict the angle of refraction for different transparent materials?

Topic: The critical angle for total internal reflection in various media.

Research Question: How does the critical angle for total internal reflection change with the refractive index of different materials?

Lens and Mirror Optics

Topic: The formation of images by converging lenses under various conditions.

Research Question: How does the focal length of a lens affect the properties of the image it forms?

Topic: The magnification power of compound microscope systems.

Research Question: How do the focal lengths of the objective and eyepiece lenses in a microscope affect its overall magnification?

Topic: The aberrations in images formed by lenses and mirrors.

Research Question: What types of optical aberrations are most prevalent in simple lens systems, and how can they be minimized?

Interference and Diffraction

Topic: The double-slit experiment and wave-particle duality.

Research Question: How does the double-slit experiment provide evidence for the wave-particle duality of light?

Topic: Measuring the wavelength of light using diffraction gratings.

Research Question: How can diffraction gratings be used to accurately measure the wavelength of light?

Topic: The application of holography in image storage and retrieval.

Research Question: How does holography utilize the principles of interference and diffraction to store and reconstruct images?

And light’s just one piece of the whole world of Physics. Electromagnetic waves are everywhere, from the microwave that heats your lunch to the X-rays at the dentist. It’s all part of the same big family that keeps our world connected and our lives running.

Electromagnetic Waves Topics and Research Questions

Radio and Microwave Radiation

Topic: The design and optimization of antennas for radio communication.

Research Question: How does the geometry of an antenna affect its radiation pattern and signal reception?

Topic: Signal propagation in different atmospheric conditions.

Research Question: How do atmospheric conditions affect the propagation of radio and microwave signals?

Topic: The effectiveness of microwave radiation in communication systems.

Research Question: What are the advantages and limitations of using microwave radiation in satellite communications?

Infrared and Ultraviolet Light

Topic: Thermal imaging and the emissivity of different materials.

Research Question: How does the emissivity of a material affect its detection in thermal imaging?

Topic: The effects of UV radiation on various substances.

Research Question: How does exposure to ultraviolet light affect the chemical structure and properties of different materials?

Topic: Spectroscopy and the identification of chemical compounds.

Research Question: How can infrared and ultraviolet spectroscopy be used to identify and analyze different chemical compounds?

X-rays and Gamma Rays

Topic: The application of X-ray imaging in medical diagnostics.

Research Question: How do different tissues and materials affect the absorption and transmission of X-rays in medical imaging?

Topic: Radiation therapy and the optimization of gamma ray dosage.

Research Question: How can the dosage and targeting of gamma rays in radiation therapy be optimized for cancer treatment?

Topic: Nuclear gamma spectroscopy and nuclear structure.

Research Question: What can gamma-ray spectra reveal about the structure and energy states of atomic nuclei?

These topics and research questions are designed to guide students in their exploration of advanced concepts in physics, providing a foundation for a thorough and insightful Extended Essay.

Creating an engaging and contemporary Physics Extended Essay can be particularly rewarding when the topic is relevant to modern situations and challenges.

Fresh Breath Ideas for Physics IB EE

Here are 12 topics that connect to current events or recent advancements in technology, along with a brief explanation of their relevance:

The Physics of Electric Vehicles

Investigate the efficiency of regenerative braking systems in electric cars and how they contribute to the overall energy efficiency of the vehicle.

Renewable Energy Harvesting

Analyze the potential of piezoelectric materials in converting mechanical stress from human activities into electrical energy, contributing to sustainable power generation.

Smartphone Sensors

Explore the use of gyroscopes and accelerometers in smartphones for navigation and gaming, and how these sensors rely on principles of mechanics and material science.

Wireless Charging Technologies

Examine the electromagnetic principles behind wireless charging pads and the efficiency of energy transfer at various distances and alignments.

Solar Panel Coatings

Research the effectiveness of anti-reflective coatings on solar panels and their role in enhancing the absorption of light and overall energy conversion efficiency.

Aerodynamics of Drones

Study the impact of drone design on flight stability and energy consumption, which is critical for extending their use in delivery systems and aerial photography.

Physics in Sports Equipment

Investigate the materials and design features that contribute to the performance and safety of modern sports helmets, from bicycles to football.

Thermal Imaging and Disease Detection

Explore the use of thermal imaging in detecting fevers and its potential application in managing pandemics by early identification of symptomatic individuals.

Nanomaterials in Electronics

Analyze the electrical conductivity and properties of graphene and other nanomaterials that are revolutionizing the electronics industry.

Physics of Modern Building Design

Investigate how principles of thermodynamics are applied in the design of eco-friendly and energy-efficient buildings.

Quantum Computing

Study the basic principles of quantum computing and the challenges in maintaining quantum coherence in qubits, which are the fundamental building blocks of quantum computers.

SpaceX and Reusable Rockets

Research the physics behind the reusability of rockets, focusing on the landing mechanisms employed by companies like SpaceX and how they conserve momentum and energy.

Each of these topics is not only grounded in physics principles but also has a wealth of information available due to their current relevance and the ongoing research in these areas.

They offer a chance to combine theoretical physics with practical application in the modern world, which can be particularly engaging for an Extended Essay.

Need a Hand with Your Physics IB EE?

Hey there, IB students! If you’re stuck on coming up with a topic or diving into writing your Physics IB Extended Essay, don’t sweat it. Our team of IB experts at Writing Metier is here to help you write a custom IB EE on this exciting subject .

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Whether you need a spark of inspiration for your topic or you want a custom-written EE following the word count , rubric and criteria that hits all the right notes, we’ve got your back.

Reach out to us at Writing Metier extended essay writing service and have a rest while experts are working on your task.

So, that’s the rundown. Physics isn’t just about equations and lab coats; it’s the stuff all around us, from the smallest particles to the vastness of space. It’s about getting to the heart of how things work, from the every day to the extraordinary.

And the more you learn, the more you see how everything’s linked together in one big, amazing picture.

Free topic suggestions

Vasy kafidoff.

Vasyl Kafidoff is a co-founder and CEO at WritingMetier. He is interested in education and how modern technology makes it more accessible. He wants to bring awareness about new learning possibilities as an educational specialist. When Vasy is not working, he’s found behind a drum kit.

Extended Essay Writers

How to Write a Physics Extended Essay? A Guide for IB Students

Theoretical Physics extended essay go into concepts that rely heavily on mathematical models.

Luke MacQuoid

In my years of experience as an IB writer, I’ve come to appreciate the nuances and depth of the Physics extended essay. It is an opportunity for IB students to showcase their knowledge and passion for this subject.

Today, I’d like to share my insights and help guide you on how to write a compelling and well-structured Physics extended essay .

Understanding the Physics Extended Essay Requirements

According to general IB criteria, this work has specific guidelines that students must adhere to, ensuring they remain within the Physics extended essay requirements:

Ensure your topic is rooted in Physics. It should focus on experimental work, though some theoretical essays are acceptable if they tackle unconventional issues.
While the word limit for the essay is 4,000 words, I’ve often observed that the most impactful papers are concise and straight to the point.
A well-defined research question is at the heart of every essay. Ensure it’s precise and relevant to the Physics extended essay topics you’re considering.
If you’re leaning towards an experimental Physics extended essay, remember that your experiments should be replicable. They should also provide insights that can be extrapolated to real-world scenarios.

In conclusion, while the Physics extended essay might seem like a mountain to climb, it’s achievable with the proper guidance and a clear understanding of the requirements.

Choosing the Right Topic for Your Physics Extended Essay

Often, students ask me about the best Physics extended essay topics. I think choosing an option that truly resonates with your interests but also aligns with IB’s expectations is essential. It brings me to the specifics of the IB extended essay Physics topics , which get into detailed research scopes and can challenge your analytical skills.

Possible Extended Essay Topics in IB Physics

So, what are the possible extended essay topics in IB Physics ? Here are a few options for you to consider:

The Physics of Black Holes.
Quantum Entanglement and its Implications.
The Effects of Material and Thickness on Solar Cell Efficiency.
The Acoustic Properties of Different Woods.
Relativity in Modern GPS Systems.
The Physics Behind Magnetic Levitation Trains.
Fluid Dynamics in Sports.
The Correlation Between Altitude and Boiling Points of Liquids.
Thermoelectric Materials and their Potential in Waste Heat Recovery.
The Harmonics of String Instruments.

Think of areas in Physics that intrigue you: Quantum mechanics? AstroPhysics? Thermodynamics? The options are numerous, but the best topics align with your passion and the IB’s expectations.

Experimental Physics Extended Essay vs. Theoretical: What’s the Difference?

Ah, the age-old debate: Experimental or Theoretical? From my experience, this decision can make or break your essay. So, let’s break it down.

Experimental Physics . In essence, this approach is hands-on. It’s about setting up experiments, recording observations, and making inferences. If you enjoy the tangible aspects of Physics and don’t mind getting your hands dirty, this might be your calling.
Theoretical Physics . Now, this is where things get abstract. Theoretical Physics deepens into concepts, relying heavily on mathematical models and predictions. It’s less about “doing” and more about “thinking”. If abstract ideas and critical thinking excite you, this path might be the one for you.

In conclusion, always remember to stay true to your passions while adhering to the set standards. From what I know, the path might seem challenging, but the sense of accomplishment at the end is unparalleled!

Proper resources strengthen your research in Physics extended essay.

IB Physics Extended Essay: What Resources You Can Use

Taping into many resources is critical to strengthen your research and arguments. Here’s a comprehensive list that can guide you through this venture:

Primary Textbooks . These are the backbone of your foundational knowledge. But don’t just stick to your coursebook. Check advanced-level Physics textbooks for deeper insights.
Academic Journals . Google Scholar , JSTOR , and the American Physical Society’s journals offer up-to-date research findings and specialized knowledge.
University Libraries . Many institutions allow the public, especially students, access to their libraries. They can be gold mines for specialized books and research papers.
Online Platforms & Databases . You can use arXiv — a free distribution service and archive for preprints. NASA AstroPhysics Data System is also a perfect digital library portal for researchers in astronomy and Physics.
Research Institutions & Laboratories . Some institutes allow students to access their data or even conduct experiments. Examples are CERN, Fermilab, or local universities with robust Physics departments.
Educational Websites . Websites like Khan Academy or The Physics Classroom can elucidate complex topics.
Software & Simulation Tools . Use COMSOL MultiPhysics for modeling and simulating experiments. PhET Interactive Simulations offers free interactive math and science simulations.
Expert Interviews . Engaging with Physics professors, researchers, or professionals can offer unique insights. They might also point you to niche resources.
Seminars & Workshops . Attend these, especially ones that align with your essay topic. They offer cutting-edge insights and networking opportunities.
Your School’s Resources . Think about your school’s lab equipment, library, and, most importantly, your Physics teacher!
Peer-Reviewed Conferences . Look for published proceedings for the latest in Physics research.
Popular Science Books & Magazines . These can be used sparingly for general context or simply explaining complex concepts. Magazines like Scientific American or Physics Today might be helpful.

According to general IB criteria, while it’s essential to gather as much information as possible, always ensure the credibility of your sources. Cross-reference data and opt for primary over secondary sources.

The Structure of the Physics Extended Essay

Structuring your paper can make all the difference. Let’s discuss all parts of the Physics extended essay to ensure clarity and coherence.

1. The Informative Abstract

Venturing forward, you’d step into the abstract. Think of this as your elevator pitch, where you have around 300 words to present the crux of your research. Start by briefly explaining the purpose of your essay.

2. The All-Important Introduction

The introduction is your gateway to captivate the reader. Set the stage by introducing your topic and providing context. Why is it important? What real-world implications does it have? How does it tie into the larger world of Physics?

3. Methodology and Approach

Detail out the methods you’ve employed. Clarity is vital, whether it’s an experimental setup or a theoretical analysis. Describe your approach, any equipment used, variables considered, and how you collected data.

4. To the Body

It’s the heart of your essay. Analyze your findings, relate them to existing theories, and critically evaluate any discrepancies or anomalies. Break down complex concepts, ensuring they’re accessible to the reader. Use diagrams, graphs, or tables if they aid in understanding.

5. Conclusions and Reflections

Summarize your findings, reiterating their significance in the broader context of Physics. Reflect upon the entire research process, discussing your challenges and what you learned from them. Highlight potential areas for further research or unanswered questions that arose.

6. References and Bibliography

Every piece of information, data, or idea that isn’t original to you needs to be cited. Adhere to the citation style preferred by the IB and ensure consistency throughout.

Need help with your IB extended essay?

From research and analysis to structuring and editing, our skilled mentors will be by your side, helping you craft an exceptional extended essay that not only meets the wordcount and stringent IB criteria but also reflects your passion for selected IB group .

Writing the Perfect Experimental Physics Extended Essay

Ah, the realm of experimental Physics extended essay. Many students assume this is the most challenging assignment , but this is only sometimes the case. With the right approach, you can quickly reveal your topic and get the highest grade, so do not be afraid to experiment.

What Makes an Experimental Physics Extended Essay Stand Out?

Based on my experience, the most outstanding essays consistently demonstrate these characteristics:

They don’t just regurgitate known facts. They take risks, push novel ideas, or offer a fresh perspective on classic experiments.
It’s not just about noting observations but explaining why specific results were obtained, possibly linking to underlying Physics principles.
A standout essay meticulously details the experiment setup, ensuring reproducibility. Every step, from equipment calibration to data collection, is clearly articulated.
Beyond presenting results, these essays interpret data critically, drawing meaningful conclusions and suggesting further research areas.

Remember that the best essays often link findings to real-world applications or implications, showing a broader understanding of Physics in our daily lives.

Tips for a Successful Physics Extended Essay

Throughout my path as an IB tutor, I’ve picked up a few tricks of the trade that I believe can improve any paper:

Start Early . Physics, being a comprehensive subject, demands time for research, experimentation (if you’re doing an experimental essay), and analysis.
Pick a Manageable Topic . Getting into highly complex areas is tempting, but remember that depth trumps breadth.
Align with Your Interests . Your enthusiasm will shine through in your writing. Choose a topic you’re genuinely curious about.
Prioritize Your Research Question . It should be clear, focused, and researchable within the word limit. Avoid overly broad or vague questions.
Use Varied Resources . While textbooks are a good starting point, venture into academic journals, online databases, and expert interviews to gather diverse insights.
Stick to the IB Rubric . Familiarize yourself with the IB Physics extended essay criteria . This rubric will be your guiding light, ensuring you hit all the necessary points.
Draft, Revise, Repeat . Your first draft is unlikely to be your final one. Write, take a break, return with fresh eyes, revise, and repeat the cycle.
Maintain Academic Integrity . Cite all sources diligently. Plagiarism is a strict no-no in the IB world.
Understand the Theory . Even if you’re focusing on an experiment, grounding your observations in theoretical concepts is crucial. It shows a holistic understanding of the topic.
Maintain a Consistent Structure . Introduction, research question, body, analysis, conclusion, and references — maintaining this flow aids in readability and coherence.

Over the years, I’ve seen students get lost in the vastness of their chosen subjects, but with a straightforward question, you can remain focused. Lastly, avoid straying from the IB extended essay Physics guidelines. They’re there for a reason, and adhering to them can significantly boost your score.

So, writing the Physics extended essay is no small feat, but with the right approach and a sprinkle of dedication, it’s an enriching experience. Follow the guidelines, choose your topic wisely, and structure your essay well, and you’ll be on the path to success. Best of luck to you!

Luke MacQuoid has extensive experience teaching English as a foreign language in Japan, having worked with students of all ages for over 12 years. Currently, he is teaching at the tertiary level. Luke holds a BA from the University of Sussex and an MA in TESOL from Lancaster University, both located in England. As well to his work as an IB Examiner and Master Tutor, Luke also enjoys sharing his experiences and insights with others through writing articles for various websites, including extendedessaywriters.com blog

Tips on writing an EE in Physics

To help get you started with your Physics EE, here are tips on how I structured mine. Psst..this is quite a long post so bear with me 🙂

While some would advise staying away from science subjects for your Extended Essay (EE), I feel that if you are interested in pursuing science-related majors in university, it is a rewarding experience. As long as you have a solid plan of what you are going to do and coherently analyze your results, it is definitely NOT impossible to get an A. In fact, to make it seem less daunting, just think of it as an extended IA!

Introduction: Set-Up and Background Information

-Background Information on Problem: Start with a concise explanation of what inspired you to do this Physics EE. My tip is to relate your experiment to existing problems in your home country. For instance, my EE had the research question “How does the turbine radius affect the efficiency of a horizontal axis wind turbine?” and I linked it to Indonesia’s newly inaugurated wind farm, which at the moment, has limited efficiency. My EE could, in theory, be a stepping stone in helping Indonesia have increased turbine efficiency and spend less money on blade material.

I would also recommend writing about your problem’s financial or social factors to show more depth behind your “personal motivation”. Afterwards, slowly build up to your research question. This should take up from ½ to 1 page.

-Background information on Idea: Write about the background information you have found regarding your topic and experiment, including its advantages and drawbacks. Add pictures, if possible, to give examiners a better understanding of what you are doing. Then, relate to how your research can add to the current knowledge of the topic.

-Define and clarify the terms and formulas you are using throughout your EE: Specify what each symbol in the formula means and have their units written.

-Hypothesis: Add necessary scientific information to back up your claims, and don’t forget to cite your sources!

-Set-Up: The set-up can be divided into two sections: Construction & Operation. The “Construction” section is about how you will create your set-up for the experiment, whereas the “Operation” section should be about how you will collect your data. Make sure to be specific and add diagram/ reference photos for more clarity.

The Experiment

-Technical Data: Write down all the lengths and measurements of the setup and any other additional information that you think is essential for your report.

-Experiment Variables: • Independent Variable (IV): You would typically have more IV increments than in your average IA. I had a total of 9 increments. However, you can have more or fewer increments, depending on your experiment’s difficulty and the aim of your analysis. *Tip: Explain why you chose the specific interval between your increments for more in-depth analysis • Dependent Variable (DV): Write what your DV is and how you would measure them • Controlled Variables (CV): Write your controlled variables, possible impact on results if not controlled, and plan to control them. Four variables would generally be appropriate since they will be complete enough but not waste too many words.

-Data Collection: Talk about the specifications and details of how you collected data. This is when you will be doing the actual experiment for your EE. Make sure to compile your results into your raw and processed data table (Add sample calculation to your appendix so you won’t waste words).

Analysing the Data

-Graphs: I highly recommend more than one graph. However, try not to exceed four graphs to make sure that you have enough words to explain each graph in detail.

– Analysis: While the analysis portion would differ from person to person, some ideas on how to analyze would be to write about:

– What is the general trend + Possible explanation (Scientific reason)

– Outliers + Error bars + Possible factors that contributed to outlier/ error

– R 2 value

– Agree/ Disagree with the hypothesis (To what extent)

To wrap up your Physics EE, summarise your findings: trends, possible reasons for the trend and deviations from the trend. Relate it back to the problem you mentioned in the background information section and what suggestions you have for that problem based on your results.

Have at least five systematic and random errors (combined). Write about what the error was, how it affected your data and suggestions to improve.

Lastly, what experiments can be done to further support or test your data results in the future?

Whew… That was quite a lot of information to take in. Have fun with your extended essay, and though it takes up a lot of your time, you will undoubtedly learn new things from it. Good luck!!

A Primer on the IB Extended Essay in Physics

The International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP), with its high academic standards, has three core components, i.e., EE, CAS, and TOK. Each component has its own challenges. IB Extended Essay in Physics (EE) is a 4,000-word essay-based project that allows students to delve deep into a topic of their choice within the parameters of the IB syllabus.

For those who are passionate about the physical realm of the world, the IB extended essay in Physics provides an opportunity to make an in-depth exploration of a complex physical scientific phenomenon. The following article offers a comprehensive primer on the IB extended essay in physics so that students can streamline their journey without any hassle or bewilderment.

Choosing a suitable physics topic

The first and foremost step in this research project on physics is selecting a topic that genuinely interests you. This will keep you motivated throughout the process. It is imperative to choose a topic of your choice, as you will be spending a sufficient amount of time on this particular topic. As physics, as a discipline, comes with a vast variety of topics, it is important to take some time to explore topics that pique your interest.

The key to selecting a suitable topic lies in maintaining a balance between interest and the availability of research and experimental resources. For example, if you are choosing to base your study on MRI scanning in the field of quantum mechanics, you should have relevant equipment to conduct your experiment and research.

Formulating a focused research question

After selecting a suitable topic that is also practically feasible, the next step is to formulate a single, focused research question that will become the basis for your entire study. Your research question should be broad enough to allow research and specific enough to be unique and new. A well-drafted research question further helps in formulating clear and concise arguments. With an ambiguous research question, the coherency of the entire essay might be compromised.

Conducting experiments and research

This is an action stage. After formulating a research question, the next step is to conduct relevant research and experiments to ensure the authenticity of the extended essay. Gathering information involves reading relevant books, academic journals, scholarly articles, online databases, and interviews with experts in the field. The more you develop your research portfolio, the more diverse your extended essay will be. Research is important to collect evidence for your specific research question and thesis statement.

If your research requires conducting experiments in a laboratory, you should plan and execute them properly and meticulously. You must be aware of the proper methodologies, safety protocols, and control variables. The experiments should be conducted in accordance with established rules and regulations and should involve the collection and recording of empirical data with precision.

Structuring Your IB Physics Extended Essay

Presenting the subject matter is as important as the subject matter. Thus, the structure of your extended essay is vital for its presentation. It should follow an unambiguous and logical format.

Title Page : The title page should include the title of your essay, your full name, the IB candidate number, and the date.
Abstract : A clear and concise summary of your research question and the main argument, i.e., thesis statement, methodologies used, key findings, and conclusion, is to be stated here.
Table of Contents : This is the index page where all sections and sub-sections with corresponding page numbers should be written.
Introduction : Under this, your thesis statement for your particular research question should be articulated clearly. This section should also include the historical background and relevance of your research question. You should also mention the significance of choosing a particular research topic.
Literature Review : A review of existing literature should be stated under this heading, which will demonstrate your understanding of the field.
Methodology : A detailed description of all the techniques and methodologies employed in experiments and research. For example, what data collection methods and analytical techniques are used will be mentioned.
Results : Articulating your interpretations and analysis by presenting them in a well-organised manner. Students should include visual representations, such as bar graphs and pie charts, to make their extended essay impressive.
Discussion : This section states the interpretation of your results, the analysis of their significance, and discusses how they relate to a particular research question.
Conclusion : A brief summary of your findings and how they relate to your research question is to be stated here.
References : A list of all the sources to which you have referred while conducting your research. Academic style should be used while referencing and citing.

Tips for Success

Early bird approach: The Extended Essay requires months of planning and execution, so it’s imperative to begin early in order to avoid any last-minute hassles. If anything goes wrong early on, you can begin again, which becomes difficult when you already started late.
Seek guidance: Keep in touch with your IB supervisors for guidance and criticism. They know what is expected in an extended essay, so you can live up to those expectations under their guidance.
Stay organised: Organise your research and writing process by making proper notes and a plan chart.
Edit and proofread: After finishing your first draft, take time to review your extended essay. This will help to remove ambiguity and inconsistency in your extended essay. See for grammatical errors, clarity of arguments, etc.

Pro Tip: Take a little break before you start reviewing your first draft. This will give you a fresh perspective on your research.

Stay True to Your Research Question: Throughout the essay, you should ensure that your entire essay is relevant to your research question.

Conclusion The IB Extended Essay in Physics is a challenging yet rewarding endeavour. As it explores the physical realm of our known universe, there are ever-so-many intricacies involved. It exposes students to the highly sought-after research skills required in high-level education. This independent research helps students develop a critical and logical way of seeing things.

Happy Researching!

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Physics Extended Essay: The Complete Guide for IB Students

by Antony W

September 3, 2022

In this guide, you’ll learn everything you need to know about Physics Extended Essay in IB. We’ll look at:

What Physics EE is all about
How to choose a topic
The right approach to handling your topic and
Physics EE assessment criteria

What’s Physics EE in IB?

A physics extended essay is an individual assignment that requires you to utilize a variety of abilities while exploring a topic of personal interest in the discipline of physics.

It focuses on physics within a broader set of scientific standards, and it takes the form of a research that incorporates a hypothesis or model, or a critical analysis that displays argumentation, comparison, or the extraction of pertinent information or data.

How to Choose a Physics Extended Essay Topic

The first rule when it comes to topic selection is that you must put emphasis on a subject within physics.

In other words, IB students have to ground their extended essays in physical theory and underline the subject's essence.

To write a more comprehensive, extended essay in the subject, you should select a focused, practical, and well-defined topic that allows you to conduct an in-depth analysis.

Avoid broad or complicated subjects, because they will not allow you to explore contradictory views and hypotheses.

Also, a broad topic will not allow you to conduct an in-depth, personal interpretation within the word limit recommended for EE .

Additionally, you should avoid investigating issues that extend outside the bounds of mainstream science, such as metaphysics or pseudoscience. Examples include of investigative issues include:

Extrasensory experience
The relationship between physics and the existence of God
The mysterious forces of pyramids

The IB board considers it helpful if you can specify the subject further in the form of a research question, followed by a statement of purpose that indicates the approach you will employ to answer the question.

If you’re going to focus on an experimental essay, you will need to select a more practical experiment that does not need substantial amounts of time for equipment building.

In some instances, more advanced equipment might create constraints and inhibit the comprehension of a phenomenon. Successful trials will generate the data required for a sound analysis reasonably quickly.

Some Physics Extended Essay topics may not be acceptable for examination due to safety concerns.

For example, you need to avoid topics that requires experiments using hazardous or carcinogenic chemicals, radioactive materials, lasers, microwaves, ultraviolet light, noise, or heavy equipment.

Physics Extended Essay Writing Help

Do you need help with your Physics Extended Essay but have no idea where to get it online? You can contact Help for Assessment right now.

The EE writers at Help for Assessment are ready to offer you the kind of writing necessary to complete your Physics Extended Essay homework on time and score good marks. Whether you need help with topic selection and writing or you already have a topic to work on, you can hire one of our top writers to help you get the work done.

Our Physics Extended Essay writing service involves topic selection, development of a research issue, in-depth research, and writing.

We pay close attention to the Extended Essay requirements to ensure the paper we deliver to you meets the assignment’s scope.

Given that Physics is a technical subject, you shouldn’t wait until the last minute to start working on it. Get started early with our writing help.

How to Write a Physics Extended Essay

The primary goal of this type of assignment is to demonstrate a clear understanding of the topic you’ve selected to work on. So to ensure you write the best EE in the subject:

1. Choose the Right Angle to Direct Your Assignment

It’s important to note that your Physic extended essay will need to express an in-depth study into the history or theory of the particular topic. However, it’s different for long assignments I the subject.

For long subjects, you may focus on:

Experimental physics: This area focuses on the design and execution of an experiment, followed by personal data collecting and analysis.
Data based physics: It focuses on location and extraction of non-student-collected raw or processed data, which is subsequently refined and analyzed.
Theoretical physic: The focus is on the formulation of a quantitative or semi-quantitative description of a physical phenomenon, the application of the model, and the prediction of its behavior and limitations.
Survey: It involves the construction of a coherent, organized, analytic, and supported (qualitative and quantitative) discussion of the issue

All long physics essays should include an overview of the work's scope and limits.

This should always include a study of any experimental design, data uncertainties and accuracy, mathematical approaches, links to theoretical models, and the dependability and quality of sources.

2. Give a Direct Analysis of Your Research Topic

The essay's body and progression should directly analyze the research topic.

Experimental essays can help students to demonstrate their critical thinking more clearly, but experimental activity aren’t necessary for the assignment.

However, you must provide a clear theoretical component for each empirical inquiry.

If you include any experimental effort in your Physics extended essay, ensure to document it thoroughly so that other researchers can produce it with identical findings and conclusions.

If you’ve opted to collect data from secondary sources, use it with extreme caution.

Ensure you provide a comprehensive evaluation of the location and credibility of the sources required for databased essays at the outset of the planning process.

You should apply the same scrutiny to this data and the experimental design as if you had gathered the data yourself.

3. Examine Your Research Techniques Thoroughly

A thorough examination of research techniques is necessary in a Physics extended essay.

That’s because it might reveal severe problems in experimental design or data collection that invalidate or at least limit the interpretation of the results completely or in part.

A purely empirical inquiry linking two or three variables without a theoretical basis is unsatisfactory.

For example, if you utilize a computer simulation of a theoretical model, you should extensively analyze the methods devised or implemented and you should compare simulated results to actual events to determine their validity.

If you’re going to write an essay that contains a theoretical model that describes a physical occurrence, your planning should include the beginning postulates, the important stages for running the model, and the simulation results collected.

4. Explain Your Literary Sources Thoroughly

In theoretical, data based, or survey extended essay in Physics, you must include an assessment of the quality and dependability of the literary sources.

You have to have sufficient knowledge of the issue to evaluate the credibility of the sources.

You can accomplish this by researching secondary sources or calculating independently.

Also, you should not be hesitant to discuss opposing viewpoints and share your own thoughts with supporting evidence.

In survey or theoretical essays, appropriate preparation requires examining source material in light of the research topic so that you utilize the opinions of other scientists to support your own thesis, rather than as a replacement for it.

5. Make Your Analysis Clear and Concise

An analysis must supplement data or information rather than merely duplicate it. And you need to make sure you derive interpretations logically from facts or information.

Your essay needs to include the avoidance of unfounded, far-fetched extrapolation and the acknowledgement of flaws.

The commentary should not simply a restatement of the data. It should produce a strong interpretation of the results, which ones can compare to previously published research on the subject.

Physics Extended Essay Assessment Criteria

The following is the assessment criteria used to gauge the depth and comprehensiveness of your Physics Extended Essay:

Criterion A: Research Question

The criterion requires that your research topic must be relevant to physics as a science, centered on physics and not on ancillary problems, and clearly recognized and prominently presented in the introduction.

Criterion B: Introduction

The introduction should tie the research question to the existing body of knowledge on the topic.

You should not include your personal experience or viewpoint here, as it’s highly unlikely to be helpful at this point.

You should place the pertinent physics concepts within the context of the issue. You need to view the introduction as a chance to be more precise rather than appearing bloaty.

Criterion C: Investigation

The strategy you use for investigation should show a clear pertinent theory as well as an understanding of the inherent uncertainties and limits of procedures and equipment used in the Physics Extended Essay.

Criterion D: Knowledge and Understanding of the Research Issue

The knowledge and comprehension exhibited in a physics essay should go beyond the course or laboratory.

You have to demonstrate that you can use the essential information obtained in the classroom in a new physical environment that necessitates its interpretation.

Criterion E: Reasoned Argument

Students should be aware of the necessity to provide a developing argument in the body of their writings.

In order to persuade the reader of the correctness of one's opinions, you have to include logical and helpful arguments in your work.

Criterion F: Use of Analytical and Evaluative Skills

You must demonstrate a comprehension of the mathematical and statistical correlations automatically generated by systems.

It is necessary to have a thorough and firm awareness of the inherent constraints of an inquiry and their consequences for the results obtained.

Criterion G: Use of Language and Terminologies Relevant to the Subject

The usage of scientific terminology is required throughout your Physics Extended Essay.

To understand the right format, structure, and presentation of a scientific paper, you should study articles from reputable scientific journals and periodicals.

The essential quality of the language is exactness and common expressions such as "function of" and "proportional to" must have specific meanings. You should specify any symbols used in context.

Criterion H: Conclusion

Make sure that the conclusion of your Physics EE develops from the argument and not introduce new or irrelevant material.

It should not duplicate the information presented in the introduction, but rather give a new synthesis in light of the conversation.

The conclusion should indicate how uncertainties in experimental data, the constraints of a model or experimental design, or the reliability of sources affected the outcomes of your work.

Criterion I: Formal Presentation

This criterion addresses the extent to which the essay complies with academic norms about the format of research papers.

About the author

Antony W is a professional writer and coach at Help for Assessment. He spends countless hours every day researching and writing great content filled with expert advice on how to write engaging essays, research papers, and assignments.

Website by Chris Hamper, Emma Mitchell & David Clapp

Updated 7 August 2024

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Writing an Extended Essay
Extended Essay

Some sections of this website are strictly teacher only however this part is for students. I have tried to use both my experience writing an essay and as a supervisor to give some advice to students thinking of writing a physics EE.

For the student the early days of the EE are full of choices, firstly which subject to choose, secondly which topic and thirdly what research question. There are many reasons that students choose to write their EE in physics:

Physics is their best/favourite subject.
They want to study physics at university.
They want me to write a teacher recommendation.
They find physics difficult and think this might improve their chances.

These are all valid reasons, in fact I often say to students that if they want me to write a teacher recommendation for them then they might consider doing an EE in physics, it means that I can really add some meat to the reference. It makes a big difference when you can write about the independent research that the student is involved with and all the challenges they have faced, universities are often more impressed than the IB examiners.

Students don't have to be good at physics to write a good essay as long as they stick to what they know, its probably easier to score well for a student who is a good essay writer and poor at physics than someone who is good at physics but can't write an essay. From the beginning it must be stressed that this is an essay not a university research paper so doesn't have to be cutting edge, as you will find out most of the marks of for how the essay is structured not the physics. This is a problem for some of our student who maybe like physics because they don't like writing essays, if that is the case then I am afraid that they will not get a good grade writing an essay in any subject so they might as well do it in physics and add their weight to the dreadful statistics.

If you are new to the IB then you might not know this yet but to get an A with a physics extended essay is almost impossible, the statistics are certainly not encouraging.

Since this is about writing an extended essay I should quote the source of these numbers

http://occ.ibo.org/ibis/documents/dp/d_x_dpyyy_stb_0905_1_e.pdf http://occ.ibo.org/ibis/documents/dp/d_x_dpyyy_stb_0811_1_e.pdf http://occ.ibo.org/ibis/documents/dp/d_x_dpyyy_stb_0805_1_e.pdf

These are the IB Diploma Statistical Bulletins for the relevant years, they contain a lot of other interesting statistics if you are interested in that sort of thing.

What these figures show is that less students get grade A's in group 4 subjects than the others. It does not say that it is more difficult to get an A in a group 4 subject but that's how a lot of people interpret it.

Type of Essay

There are 5 types of essay

Experimental: design and implementation of an experiment, then personal collection and analysis of the data.
Data-based : location and extraction of raw or processed data, not collected directly by the student, which is then further refined and analysed.
Theoretical : development of a quantitative or semi-quantitative description of some physical phenomenon, exercise of the model, predictions about its behaviour and limitations.
Survey: formulation of a cohesive, ordered, analytical and supported (qualitative and quantitative) discussion of the topic.
Combination : some combination of the approaches listed above.

Whichever one of these is chosen it is important that the student has the possibility to put some of their own ideas into the essay, these don't have to be correct but if not they must have enough understanding to realise why they are not. It's far easier to have personal input when doing an experimental type essay so these are the type that i promote with my students and what this website will focus on.

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Controlling Eddy Currents Brake Force_IB Physics EE Experiments_Nicole Calo (2011)

The research question investigated was “How does increasing the velocity of a conductor increase the eddy-current brake force?”. Prior research regarding eddy currents was conducted to help shape the path for the experiments. Five experiments were designed exploring the relationships between electromagnetically induced voltage, velocity of wire through magnetic field, effects of changing magnetic field strength, application of current to a solenoid, time in which magnet passes through solenoid, and temperature. Only the three experiments – involving electromagnetically induced voltage, velocity of wire through magnetic field, effects of changing magnetic field strength, time in which magnet passes through solenoid -- were able to be preformed. Alongside mathematical manipulations and theoretical reasoning, the conclusion was reached that increasing velocity increases the magnetic flux which in turn produces a greater opposing force from the eddy currents. (Note: This is a paper by a Grade 12 student of IB HL Physics.)

Related Papers

Delia Munteanu

International Journal of Engineering Research and Technology (IJERT)

IJERT Journal

https://www.ijert.org/review-paper-on-eddy-current-and-electromagnetic-brake https://www.ijert.org/research/review-paper-on-eddy-current-and-electromagnetic-brake-IJERTV10IS010198.pdf Most of the braking systems utilize friction forces to transform the kinetic energy of a moving body into heat that is dissipated by the braking pads. The overuse of friction-type braking systems causes the temperature of the braking pads to rise, reducing the effectiveness of the system. The eddy-current is created by the relative motion between a magnet and a metal (or alloy) conductor. The current induces the reverse magnetic field and results in the deceleration of motion. The changing magnetic field will induce eddy currents in the conductor. The proposed mechanism implements this phenomenon in developing a braking system. It is found that the larger thickness of disc, a greater number of turns of electromagnet and higher electrical conductivity of conductor influences the generation of greater braking torque. Greater the speed greater the efficiency.

shridevi goudar

—An eddy current brake, like a conventional friction brake, is responsible for slowing an object, such as a train or a roller coaster. However, unlike electro-mechanical brakes, which apply mechanical pressure on two separate objects, eddy current brakes slow an object by creating eddy currents through electromagnetic induction which create resistance, and in turn either heat or electricity. When the primary magnetic field and the secondary conductor of the eddy current brakes has relative motion ,the eddy currents will appear in the conductor and the braking force will be produced by the interaction of the eddy currents and the primary magnetic field. Due to the internal resistance of the conductor, the eddy current will dissipate into heat and the force will vanish. The force is dependent on the velocity of the change in magnetic flux and resists the change in flux. The brakes based on this principle have been found in many applications. For example, vibration suppression, vehicle...

IRJET Journal

Felix Daverio

This paper explores the question “What is the effect of changing angular velocity on the braking force of an eddy-current brake?”. Eddy-current brakes are systems that use magnets to slow a moving conductor. As the conductor moves through a magnetic field, a current is induced in the surface. Known as an eddy-current, this induced current creates a magnetic field of its own which according to Lenz’s law will oppose the magnetic field that created it, thus the conductor experiences a retarding force. The effect of angular velocity on the braking torque was investigated for an aluminium disk spinning at a range of different speeds. The disk was connected to a DC motor, and a DC Pulse Width Modulation Controller was used to control the angular velocity. The disk was brought to a constant velocity and then a neodymium magnet was moved over the edge of the disk until it reached equilibrium again. A cardboard rectangle was attached to the disk and when spun the cardboard passed through a light gate. The disk was spun at nine different speeds and the time was recorded each time the cardboard crossed the lightgate. Using the raw data, the acceleration and angular velocity were calculated. These values were then used to compute the torque experienced by the disk. Torque and angular velocity were found to be directly proportional, however due to the complex nature of eddy currents, this conclusion can only be applied to disks spinning at similar speeds. The experimental results were found to differ from a mathematical model, possibility due to eddy-currents induced in the motor used to spin the disk. Overall the investigation was successful in its aims of finding the effect of angular velocity on the torque, and a comparison of a theoretical model with the experimental data both achieved.

Transactions of the Canadian Society for Mechanical Engineering

Der-Ming Ma

The eddy-current is created by the relative motion between a magnet and a metal (or alloy) conductor. The current induces the reverse magnetic field and results in the deceleration of motion. The proposed mechanism implements this phenomenon in developing a braking system. The potential applications of the braking system can be a decelerating system to increase the safety of an elevator or any guided rail transportation system. To provide scientific investigation for industrial application of magnetic braking, this study presents four systematic engineering design scenarios to design a braking system. The constant magnetic field is the simplest and easiest design to implement. The optimal magnetic field distribution is obtained by minimizing the deceleration effort. The piecewise-constant magnetic field distribution offers a compromise between performance and magnetic field requirements. The advantages of the section-wise guide rail are tolerable deceleration; and simple design requ...

Vehicle Power and Propulsion IEEE Conference

Mehrdad Ehsani

Conventional friction braking suffers severe limitations. The concept of integrated contactless magnetic brake was invented to remedy to these problems. The integrated brake combines a conventional friction brake with an eddy-current brake. The present work includes an analysis of the physics of the eddy-current brake by the means of a two-dimensional analytical model and a three-dimensional finite element analysis. An

Brakes are responsible for stopping any mechanical system. The brake is very crucial part of any automobile or any moving system. It was observed that adhesive wear and thermal degradation are the main sources of ageing or fading of mechanical friction brakes. The degradation of friction surfaces ultimately results in less braking and reduced safety. Also there are chances of leakage of brake fluid in conventional hydraulic brakes which results into brake failure. In order to overcome these limitations, Eddy current generation phenomenon can be implemented in the braking system. Eddy currents gets developed when a conducting and non-ferromagnetic material is moved in the constant magnetic field and oppose the motion of the conductor. In this kind of brakes braking effect depends on the speed of a conductor. An experimental set up is developed to study braking system using eddy current. It was found that braking torque increases with increase in magnetic field and is directly proportional to the angular velocity of the wheel. System stopping time decreases as the current value goes on increasing. At higher speeds stopping time reduces drastically. Reduction in RPM from initial speed is higher at higher speed. For higher values of current braking torque increases drastically. Maximum value of braking torque achieved was about-0.2054 N-m at 1200 RPM when current was 5.23 Amp.

Archives of Electrical Engineering

Roman Vogel

Harmonic flux penetrating solid conductive material causes eddy currents inside. It seems plausible that its magnitude does not exceed the exciting magnetomotive force (mmf). However, under certain circumstances the opposite occurs. This article deals with a special case in which the eddy current is approximately 13% higher than the exciting mmf. An analytical field solution, a finite element calculation and a measurement proving this phenomenon are presented. A special flux linkage is turned out to be the reason for this phenomenon. Finally, another example with higher pronounced mmfexceeding in a coil is presented.

In Automotive Industry many traditional brakings which are used now a days by the concept of mechanical blocking. It results in skidding and wear and tear on the vehicle. And if the vehicle's speed is very high, the brake can't deliver that high braking force and it will cause problems. These disadvantages of ordinary brakes can be overcome by a simple and effective braking mechanism called 'Eddy Current Brake'. It is a method without abrasion for braking vehicles, including trains. It makes use of the opposite tendency of eddy current. Eddy current is the swirling current produced within a conductor, which is subject to a change of magnetic field. Due to the tendency of eddy currents to be oppositional, eddy currents lose energy. Eddy current brake consists of a conductive non-ferromagnetic metal disc (rotor) attached to the rear axle of the bicycle wheel, with an electromagnet located with its poles on the disk without contact, so the magnetic field by electromagnets passes through the disk. The electro-magnet makes it possible to vary the braking force.

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Physics extended essay without an experiment

I'm doing a extended essay on physics, and I talked to my supervisor about doing an essay without an experiment, but looking at secondary and theoretical data. He said it was okay but when I read the rubric, it says it's recommended to do one with an experiment.

Would not having experimental data in my essay give me a bad mark?

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Five of the most important International Space Station experiments

From artificial retinas to ageing mice, here are five of the most promising results from research performed on the ISS – and what they might mean for humans on Earth and in space

By Jon Cartwright

6 August 2024

Astronaut inside the International Space Station using the combustion rack

It’s not all eating bits of food floating in mid-air and introducing suction toilets to fascinated Earthlings – crews on the International Space Station (ISS), which will be coming to an end soon , have serious work to do.

Since the station’s inception, astronauts and cosmonauts have performed more than 3000 experiments in the microgravity and heightened radiation of low-Earth orbit. These have ranged from confirming that fertility levels remain unaltered (in mice, not crew members) to testing the prospects of using lunar soil to make concrete to help build future moon bases. Here are four more of the most impressive bits of ISS research.

Artificial retinas

For millions of people with degenerative conditions affecting the retina – the layer of light-sensitive cells at the back of the eye – there is no cure, only treatments that slow progression. However, an implant that mimics the function of the retina might be the solution, and US-based company LambdaVision has had some success making one by depositing layer upon layer of a light-activated protein known as bacteriorhodopsin. On Earth, solutions of it tended to clump together, leading to poor deposition, but much better results came early this decade in the microgravity aboard the ISS . LambdaVision is now trying to scale up space manufacturing of the artificial retinas and claims these are among the first technologies evaluated on the ISS that have the potential for clinical use.

Astronauts could drink their own urine with water-recycling spacesuit

Invisible flames

When you light a match, the wood burns, reacting with oxygen to produce heat and light, as well as some other products such as carbon…

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Cricket physics: Wind tunnel experiments reveal why bowling with a near horizontal arm makes for tough batting

by American Institute of Physics

Cricket physics: Science behind the modern bowler technique tricking batters

Key to winning a cricket match is tricking the other team's batters—no small feat, as bowlers bowl cricket balls nearly 100 miles per hour. In recent years, a bowling technique that has become popular involves keeping the arm almost entirely horizontal during delivery, notably used by Sri Lankan stars Lasith Malinga and Matheesha Pathirana. The aerodynamics of such deliveries have perplexed sports physicists.

In Physics of Fluids , researchers have started to unravel the mysteries of how such a bowling action leads to such tough-to-hit balls. Using a wind tunnel, Aafrein Begam Faazil and colleagues describe the changes in pressure fields surrounding a ball due to the spinning brought on by bowling with a near-horizontal arm.

"The unique and unorthodox bowling styles demonstrated by cricketers have drawn significant attention, particularly emphasizing their proficiency with a new ball in early stages of a match," said author Kizhakkelan Sudhakaran Siddharth. "Their bowling techniques frequently deceive batsmen, rendering these bowlers effective throughout all phases of a match in almost all formats of the game."

The amount and way that a cricket ball jukes along its trajectory heavily relies on the interplay between the spin of the ball and operational Reynold's number, a dimensionless quantity that relates fluid density, ball dimension, air speed, and fluid viscosity.

To get to the heart of their question, the team employed a wake survey rake device made of multiple tubes designed to capture the pressure downstream of the ball. This was complemented by an imaging system capable of detecting pressure variations sensed in the connected manometers. The study examined the flow dynamics of cricket balls rotating up to 2,500 revolutions per minute in a wind tunnel.

"The simultaneous traversal-imaging technique combined with the traditional manometers utilized in this study yielded remarkable precision, exceeding all expectations," Siddharth said. "This demonstrated to be an outstanding approach for replicating the intricate and dynamic situations experienced in sports contexts within a wind tunnel setting."

The group found that low-pressure zones expanded and intensified near the ball when spinning, while these zones shifted and diminished downstream. At higher spin rates, the low-pressure zone begins to change to a persistent bilobed shape.

The results lend support to the theory that these newer bowling techniques tap into the Magnus effect, in which high-speed spinning creates effects that shift the ball midflight.

Siddharth hopes the work stokes further interest in understanding the physics of cricket ball dynamics. The group looks to investigate how other factors, such as wear on the ball, affect aerodynamics.

Journal information: Physics of Fluids

Provided by American Institute of Physics

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Drugstores tinker with new looks as their usual way of doing business faces challenges

A customer browses an aisle at a Walgreens pharmacy store in Deerfield, Ill., Thursday, July 25, 2024. America’s drugstores are testing smaller locations and making bigger bets on health care as they adjust to customers who need them less for convenience. (AP Photo/Nam Y. Huh)

A customer browses the first aid aisle at a Walgreens pharmacy store in Deerfield, Ill., Thursday, July 25, 2024. (AP Photo/Nam Y. Huh)

A Walgreens pharmacy store is seen in Deerfield, Ill., Thursday, July 25, 2024. (AP Photo/Nam Y. Huh)

A patient health room is seen at a Walgreens pharmacy store in Deerfield, Ill., Thursday, July 25, 2024. (AP Photo/Nam Y. Huh)

A sign is describing the store’s new design is displayed at a Walgreens pharmacy store in Deerfield, Ill., Thursday, July 25, 2024. (AP Photo/Nam Y. Huh)

Medications are displayed on shelves at a Walgreens pharmacy store in Deerfield, Ill., Thursday, July 25, 2024. (AP Photo/Nam Y. Huh)

Aisle information signs are seen at a Walgreens pharmacy store in Deerfield, Ill., Thursday, July 25, 2024. (AP Photo/Nam Y. Huh)

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America’s drugstores are testing smaller locations and more ways to offer care as price-sensitive shoppers look elsewhere.

Customers may see Walgreens stores that are one-fourth the size of a regular location or CVS drugstores with entire primary clinics stuffed inside. If these experiments succeed, the new stores might improve access to care and create a more lasting connection with customers, analysts say.

“Everyone looks at health care and says, ‘Oh yeah, it’s a market that’s ripe for disruption,’” said Neil Saunders, managing director of consulting and data analysis firm GlobalData. “But it isn’t easy to disrupt.”

Walgreens CEO Tim Wentworth said recently that his company could close a “significant portion” of underperforming stores in the next few years. CVS Health is going through a round of closings. Rite Aid has filed for bankruptcy. Thousands of independent drugstores have closed over the past five years.

The closures can leave gaps: An Associated Press analysis published in June found that urban neighborhoods that are majority Black and Latino have fewer pharmacies per capita than white majority neighborhoods.

There are still more than 30,000 drugstores scattered around the country, but even Walgreens executives admit that the market is overbuilt.

The stores have struggled with increased competition from Amazon and lower-price options like Walmart or Dollar Tree. They’re also dealing with theft, growing costs and thinner prescription reimbursement.

Some are responding with new looks. Walgreens is testing a store in Chicago that has digital kiosks where customers place orders. A separate desk offers pickup of items ordered at the kiosks or online.

The company also has opened about 100 mini drugstores focused on health and wellness and featuring store-brand merchandise. Walgreens started testing these stores in 2019 and plans to add more this year.

Walgreens spokesman Jim Cohn said shopper preferences are shifting, and the company aims “to meet them where, when and how they want to shop.”

Saunders notes these stores are less expensive to run and allow the company to serve areas without enough people to support a bigger store.

At one of these locations in Indianapolis, only four short aisles separate the front door and the pharmacy counter in the back. Healthy snacks, vitamins, first aid supplies, and the usual mix of antacids and Advil fill its shelves.

But there are no magazines and only small selections of greeting cards and beauty products at the store, which is closed on Sundays and sits about a half mile from a vacant Walgreens.

Customer Leonard King has visited several times. He says his prescriptions are ready on time, and the store seems to have decent supplies.

“Being a diabetic, sometimes medicines are hard to get,” the 67-year-old Indianapolis resident said.

But King also said he misses being able to shop for things like toiletry items that can be found at bigger stores.

The selection of retail items also is smaller at some CVS Health stores that include Oak Street Health primary care clinics. The company plans to open about 25 of these combinations this year and 11 more next year, with either full-sized or smaller clinics n the stores.

The clinics can have primary care doctors, social workers and people to help with insurance coverage. They specialize in treating patients with Medicare Advantage plans, which are privately run versions of the government’s coverage program mostly for people age 65 and older.

CVS Health says it is putting the clinics in areas that need primary care. It is targeting big cities like Chicago, New York and Dallas with its initial rollout.

“If we can invest more upfront for the patients who need it, by increasing access, improving quality of care, we can keep patients healthier,” company executive Mike Pykosz said.

Making things easier for patients helps build relationships between store staff and customers and can lead to repeat business, noted Arielle Trzcinski, a principal analyst at Forrester who covers health care.

Independent drugstores also have been polishing their health care reputations. They are expanding immunizations and testing, spurred partly by increased business they saw during the COVID-19 pandemic, said Kurt Proctor of the National Community Pharmacists Association.

Some also are adding doctor’s offices or specializing in diabetes care. Proctor said they are doing what they have always done: adapting to community needs .

“There are 19,000 (independent) stores across the country and no two of them are exactly alike,” he said.

Diving into health care isn’t new for drugstores. They started adding small clinics more than 20 years ago. CVS Health has been on a health kick since it quit selling tobacco in 2014.

As many as a quarter of drugstores could eventually wind up with big health clinics, especially those located in densely populated areas, said Jeff Jonas, a portfolio manager at Gabelli Funds who follows the industry.

But he cautioned that the idea is still unproven.

Walgreens has closed VillageMD primary care clinics just a few years after it launched plans to add hundreds to its stores. Analysts say companies are still learning what makes money and resonates with customers.

One thing they know for certain: Drugstores are no longer “America’s convenience destination” like they used to be, Saunders said.

“That really, over the past 10 to 15 years, has unwound,” he said.

The Associated Press Health and Science Department receives support from the Howard Hughes Medical Institute’s Science and Educational Media Group. The AP is solely responsible for all content.

Error analysis and correction for three-dimensional scaled physical experiments on landslide-induced impulse waves

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Yunfei Chen , Bolin Huang , Zhen Qin , Xingchen Dong , Liuyang Hu , Qiuwang Li , Shulou Cheng , Renjiang Li , Yueping Yin; Error analysis and correction for three-dimensional scaled physical experiments on landslide-induced impulse waves. Physics of Fluids 1 August 2024; 36 (8): 086612. https://doi.org/10.1063/5.0201499

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Large-scale three-dimensional (3D) physical modeling is an important method to study landslide-induced impulse waves. In such models, the test randomness is often quite high, which necessitates systematic exploration of the randomness and error. However, only a few relevant studies have been conducted yet. To this end, this study aims to investigate the randomness and error of large-scale 3D landslide-induced impulse wave experiments and provide solutions to the different sources of error. Based on six repeatability experiments with the large-scale 3D physical model of the Wangjiashan landslide-induced impulse wave in the Baihetan reservoir of the Jinsha River, China, the errors of typical physical parameters are classified into systematic errors, which originate from instrumental factors, experimental design, observer bias, environmental factors, and random errors originating from communication and observation. The allowable error rate of landslide motion in the repeatability experiment is found to be 5%, but the dynamic chain transmission of landslide-induced impulse waves leads to the transmission and accumulation of errors, which causes a gradual increase in the errors of landslide motion, primary wave, propagating wave, and run-up process; and the coefficient of variation increases from approximately 3.8% to 25.0%. To reduce the experimental data error, a low-pass filtering model for removing high-frequency noise and a moving window smoothing model for image frame rate mutation are established, which can decrease the coefficient of variation by nearly 1.3%–4.0%. The corrected particle dynamic map exhibits a continuous and smooth flow field, which basically eliminates the velocity field mutation and discontinuity caused by communication data packet loss. Overall, this study can provide theoretical basis and technical support for large-scale 3D landslide-induced impulse wave experiments.

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A new approach to fine-tuning quantum materials

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Quantum materials — those with electronic properties that are governed by the principles of quantum mechanics, such as correlation and entanglement — can exhibit exotic behaviors under certain conditions, such as the ability to transmit electricity without resistance, known as superconductivity. However, in order to get the best performance out of these materials, they need to be properly tuned, in the same way that race cars require tuning as well. A team led by Mingda Li, an associate professor in MIT’s Department of Nuclear Science and Engineering (NSE), has demonstrated a new, ultra-precise way to tweak the characteristics of quantum materials, using a particular class of these materials, Weyl semimetals, as an example.

The new technique is not limited to Weyl semimetals. “We can use this method for any inorganic bulk material, and for thin films as well,” maintains NSE postdoc Manasi Mandal, one of two lead authors of an open-access paper — published recently in Applied Physics Reviews — that reported on the group’s findings.

The experiment described in the paper focused on a specific type of Weyl semimetal, a tantalum phosphide (TaP) crystal. Materials can be classified by their electrical properties: metals conduct electricity readily, whereas insulators impede the free flow of electrons. A semimetal lies somewhere in between. It can conduct electricity, but only in a narrow frequency band or channel. Weyl semimetals are part of a wider category of so-called topological materials that have certain distinctive features. For instance, they possess curious electronic structures — kinks or “singularities” called Weyl nodes, which are swirling patterns around a single point (configured in either a clockwise or counterclockwise direction) that resemble hair whorls or, more generally, vortices. The presence of Weyl nodes confers unusual, as well as useful, electrical properties. And a key advantage of topological materials is that their sought-after qualities can be preserved, or “topologically protected,” even when the material is disturbed.

“That’s a nice feature to have,” explains Abhijatmedhi Chotrattanapituk, a PhD student in MIT’s Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science and the other lead author of the paper. “When you try to fabricate this kind of material, you don’t have to be exact. You can tolerate some imperfections, some level of uncertainty, and the material will still behave as expected.”

Like water in a dam

The “tuning” that needs to happen relates primarily to the Fermi level, which is the highest energy level occupied by electrons in a given physical system or material. Mandal and Chotrattanapituk suggest the following analogy: Consider a dam that can be filled with varying levels of water. One can raise that level by adding water or lower it by removing water. In the same way, one can adjust the Fermi level of a given material simply by adding or subtracting electrons.

To fine-tune the Fermi level of the Weyl semimetal, Li’s team did something similar, but instead of adding actual electrons, they added negative hydrogen ions (each consisting of a proton and two electrons) to the sample. The process of introducing a foreign particle, or defect, into the TaP crystal — in this case by substituting a hydrogen ion for a tantalum atom — is called doping. And when optimal doping is achieved, the Fermi level will coincide with the energy level of the Weyl nodes. That’s when the material’s desired quantum properties will be most fully realized.

For Weyl semimetals, the Fermi level is especially sensitive to doping. Unless that level is set close to the Weyl nodes, the material’s properties can diverge significantly from the ideal. The reason for this extreme sensitivity owes to the peculiar geometry of the Weyl node. If one were to think of the Fermi level as the water level in a reservoir, the reservoir in a Weyl semimetal is not shaped like a cylinder; it’s shaped like an hourglass, and the Weyl node is located at the narrowest point, or neck, of that hourglass. Adding too much or too little water would miss the neck entirely, just as adding too many or too few electrons to the semimetal would miss the node altogether.

Fire up the hydrogen

To reach the necessary precision, the researchers utilized MIT’s two-stage “Tandem” ion accelerator — located at the Center for Science and Technology with Accelerators and Radiation (CSTAR) — and buffeted the TaP sample with high-energy ions coming out of the powerful (1.7 million volt) accelerator beam. Hydrogen ions were chosen for this purpose because they are the smallest negative ions available and thus alter the material less than a much larger dopant would. “The use of advanced accelerator techniques allows for greater precision than was ever before possible, setting the Fermi level to milli-electron volt [thousandths of an electron volt] accuracy,” says Kevin Woller, the principal research scientist who leads the CSTAR lab. “Additionally, high-energy beams allow for the doping of bulk crystals beyond the limitations of thin films only a few tens of nanometers thick.”

The procedure, in other words, involves bombarding the sample with hydrogen ions until a sufficient number of electrons are taken in to make the Fermi level just right. The question is: how long do you run the accelerator, and how do you know when enough is enough? The point being that you want to tune the material until the Fermi level is neither too low nor too high.

“The longer you run the machine, the higher the Fermi level gets,” Chotrattanapituk says. “The difficulty is that we cannot measure the Fermi level while the sample is in the accelerator chamber.” The normal way to handle that would be to irradiate the sample for a certain amount of time, take it out, measure it, and then put it back in if the Fermi level is not high enough. “That can be practically impossible,” Mandal adds.

To streamline the protocol, the team has devised a theoretical model that first predicts how many electrons are needed to increase the Fermi level to the preferred level and translates that to the number of negative hydrogen ions that must be added to the sample. The model can then tell them how long the sample ought to be kept in the accelerator chamber.

The good news, Chotrattanapituk says, is that their simple model agrees within a factor of 2 with trusted conventional models that are much more computationally intensive and may require access to a supercomputer. The group’s main contributions are two-fold, he notes: offering a new, accelerator-based technique for precision doping and providing a theoretical model that can guide the experiment, telling researchers how much hydrogen should be added to the sample depending on the energy of the ion beam, the exposure time, and the size and thickness of the sample.

Fine things to come with fine-tuning

This could pave the way to a major practical advance, Mandal notes, because their approach can potentially bring the Fermi level of a sample to the requisite value in a matter of minutes — a task that, by conventional methods, has sometimes taken weeks without ever reaching the required degree of milli-eV precision.

Li believes that an accurate and convenient method for fine-tuning the Fermi level could have broad applicability. “When it comes to quantum materials, the Fermi level is practically everything,” he says. “Many of the effects and behaviors that we seek only manifest themselves when the Fermi level is at the right location.” With a well-adjusted Fermi level, for example, one could raise the critical temperature at which materials become superconducting. Thermoelectric materials, which convert temperature differences into an electrical voltage, similarly become more efficient when the Fermi level is set just right. Precision tuning might also play a helpful role in quantum computing.

Thomas Zac Ward, a senior scientist at the Oak Ridge National Laboratory, offered a bullish assessment: “This work provides a new route for the experimental exploration of the critical, yet still poorly understand, behaviors of emerging materials. The ability to precisely control the Fermi level of a topological material is an important milestone that can help bring new quantum information and microelectronics device architectures to fruition.”

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