The SMILE Program @ OSU

Previously on the blog we showed you how to build a biodegradable battery from washers, pennies, and vinegar. A SMILE Club from Forest Grove High School shared with us the many different objects they used to try to create a battery.  Success came when the club used a strawberry as their energy source, but what characteristics of strawberry make it a good battery? We think this video does a great job of explaining the science behind this concept:

Hopefully after watching this video you have a better understanding of anodes and cathodes.  What else could be used in place of the strawberry or lemon? Scientist Angela Belcher is working on making batteries from viruses so that batteries can be biodegradable.  In this article she expands on her research.  What do you think will make a good battery?

Using K’NEX, solar panels, and potatoes to harness energy, Emily Nicholson, with Pre-College Programs at Oregon State University, shared creative ways to Harness Energy in the Classroom during the 2014 Winter Teacher’s Workshop. You can find the activities that she shared along with many others by clicking HERE.

Jon Roschke, a KidWind Pacific NW WindSenator from Oregon Renewables, shared a great presentation and his expertise on Wind Energy. Using prebuilt turbine towers, teachers explored the science of wind turbine blade design. Take a look at the presentation that Jon included in his workshop!

A great resource that Jon recommends is the KidWind Project website:  http://learn.kidwind.org/teach