Q3.+Creating,+imagining,+innovating

For the energetics lab, we were presented with a very relevant real-life problem: the problem of sustainable energy. Instead of diving straight into the chemistry and scientific processes in this experiment, we were given the opportunity to research this experiment in the context of modern technology. As we learned more about alcohol fuels, we were given the task of evaluating whether methanol or ethanol would be a more efficient fuel.

In designing the experiment, we had to use creativity and innovation to apply our scientific knowledge to the real world. Below is the background information we found:



As we wrote our procedure, we really had to think about what it really meant for a fuel to be "efficient". We finally decided on a procedure testing the amount of energy released per mole of the fuel. However, we remained open-minded in our analysis. Greater burning efficiency does not necessarily mean greater efficiency as a fuel in the real world. In the real world, many other factors are involved, such as how abundant a fuel is, or how accessible it is to fuel companies.

Simply knowing the science isn't enough--you have to think outside the box to make use of your knowledge!