Students will learn about the difference between the methods of neutrino detection – optical versus radio. This will then allow them to understand why the relative size of the detectors is so different. Students will also engage in a hands-on activity to understand scale through creating models of the two detectors.
This lesson was created by 2017 PolarTREC teacher Steve Kirsche who took part in the Dynamic Observations of the Microstructural Evolution of Firn expedition. The lesson is intended to introduce students to the concepts of isostasy and postglacial rebound through a demonstration and related instruction. Students will then see how postglacial rebound is an important factor when assessing the
There is a plausible explanation for how carbon dioxide molecules could interact with water molecules thereby forming a solution where the carbon dioxide is the solute and water is the solvent (as it usually is). The weak inter-molecular attractive forces rely on the polarity of the water molecule and the high density of electrons at either end of the
When a bottle or can of carbonated beverage is opened the carbon dioxide is allowed gas to come out of solution. This is because there is a pressure differential between the carbon dioxide in the liquid and carbon dioxide in the air. The pressure in the liquid is higher than the pressure in the air so the carbon dioxide moves
PolarTREC, the teacher-research program run through ARCUS (Arctic Research Consortium of the United States) and the National Science Foundation is a transformative, inspirational, and highly valuable experience for science teachers. Being provided with the opportunity to engage in authentic scientific practices allows teachers to enrich their own classroom activities and inspires the next generation of young scientists to
Lesley Anderson was connected with local California radio station KSON before and during her trip to South Pole, Antarctica as part of the PolarTREC program.
1. KSON Radio Station hosts a live interview with Lesley Anderson at the food fund in Bonita, CA.:
http://www.kson.com/media/audio-channel/john-and-tammys-food-fund-friday-bonita
2. Article in John & Tammy Blog (see downloadable article).
3. Facebook post during her stay
The Star News, a Chula Vista newspaper interviews Lesley Anderson about her experience studying neutrinos at the South Pole and her plans to bring the research back into her classroom.
This article from a Jacksonville periodical, Jax4Kids, discusses a presentation made at the Florida Association of Science Teacher's statewide convention which was made by PolarTREC teachers Steve Kirsche and Adeena Teres.
2017 Antarctica Day celebration with PolarTREC teacher Lesley Anderson speaking from the South Pole, and researcher Dr. Jim Madsen discussing the IceCube Neutrino Observatory and the Askaryan Radio Array. This event was held on 4 December 2017.