Four Raiders qualify to the District 6 Science Fair

Submitted by Sally Stolly

Four Benjamin Logan High School students are moving on to the District 6 Science Fair.

Tristan Sheets is one of four BLHS students with a Superior rating moving on to the District Science Day 2023 which will be held in person on Saturday, March 25th, 2023 at the Ohio Northern University, Mathile Center for the Natural Sciences.

Tristan’s project focuses on discovering the most efficient method to produce hydrogen and oxygen gas through the process of electrolysis. Tristan tested variables such as water temperature, electric current strength, and electrolyte concentration in order to determine the most favorable conditions for producing large amounts of gas. His experiments have an important practical application in the real world as well; new technologies such as hydrogen cars, hydrogen fuel cells, hydrogen-based renewables, and hydrogen-based rocket fuels continue to develop and shape our future.

Science fair has allowed Tristan to hone his research skills, develop a better understanding of the scientific method, and make stronger connections with his teachers. He feels that his research from the science fair has certainly given him a better grasp on the different career paths in the field of science.

Tristan would encourage anyone considering participation in a science fair to do so, as it represents a perfect opportunity to research something that you find interesting. You can also earn a variety of prizes, meet new people, and sharpen your critical thinking skills.

Kelley Forsythe earned a Superior rating and will also be competing at DISTRICT 06 SCIENCE DAY 2023!

“My project was about how different conservation methods affect the distribution of nutrients in the soil profile. I looked at 3 different fields that were each taken care of differently. Then I tested the different levels of the profile for 4 different types of nutrients. The science fair is such a great experience and I learned so much while doing my project.”

Dylan Vance also received a Superior rating on his local science fair project. Dylan will move on to District 06 Science Day on Saturday, March 25th at Ohio Northern University, Mathile Center for the Natural Sciences.

Dylan’s project was about the presence of microplastics within Indian Lake. He gathered from three separate beaches (four locations). Dylan was able to test one sample and found a concentration of 11 microplastics within a 346.79-gram sample. The sample he found the plastics in was the Fox Island Sample.

Dylan’s participation in the science fair has taught him a lot, including finding a new appreciation for the sciences. He also discovered the vast amount of harm that plastics can cause to our environment.

Dylan shared, “Science fair is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for someone to discover something they love. I encourage each and every student to present their projects because it builds presenting skills and confidence which can be applied to other areas in life.”

The final student qualifying for the District 06 Science Day with a Superior Rating is Winnie Bodin.

Winnie shared, “Science fair has benefited me as a student in a multitude of ways. First of all, it has allowed me to become a better public speaker. Science fair has also helped me to perform well under pressure and to think quickly on my feet. As well as to be able to craft a lengthy research paper. Learning how to chart/graph the variety of results has also been something that I have benefited from. Finally, the willpower to continue collecting data over 5 years has also helped me grow in my preservation and dedication.”

“Benjamin Logan has a lot of fantastic teachers and administrators that want to help students complete a science fair project based on something that interests the student. They will help and guide you through the entire process.”

Winnie’s project dealt with an assessment of the Mad River over five years. Sites were tested for diatoms, macroinvertebrates, and chemical characteristics once every three months over the course of a year. Macroinvertebrates were collected using the kick seine technique, they were identified and a pollution tolerance index was recorded based on the taxa collected. The chemical assessment was performed using A.P.I. (Aquariums Pharmaceuticals Inc.). Freshwater Master Testing Kit. Water was tested for pH, ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate levels. Dissolved Oxygen and Water Temperature were also measured each time using Vernier Probes. Diatoms were collected at each site and identified. The hypothesis was that the Mad River water quality would be poor consistent with previous years of research showing poor quality because it is lacking a wooded riparian zone that would offer shade. Winnie’s hypothesis was partly supported because the PTI was poor, however, the chemical parameter and oxygen levels were satisfactory.