Need Ideas for a Physics Astronomy EE for IB

In summary, the document provides guidance for International Baccalaureate (IB) students seeking ideas for their Extended Essay (EE) in Physics and Astronomy. It suggests various topics, including the study of celestial phenomena, the mechanics of space exploration, and the analysis of astronomical data. Additionally, it emphasizes the importance of formulating a clear research question, conducting thorough background research, and considering available resources. The document encourages creativity and originality while ensuring that the chosen topic aligns with IB criteria for a successful EE.
  • #1
Da_Rex
3
0
TL;DR Summary: I had a physics EE idea for finding the age of Andromeda using data from the university our school is linked with, however this turned out to be near impossible, therefore I wanted to find more doable things.

Need Ideas for Physics EE
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
What's EE and IB in this context? How much time do you have to work and when?
 
  • #3
Ibix said:
What's EE and IB in this context? How much time do you have to work and when?
EE is a Extended Essay that is around 4000 Words, and IB is International Baccalaureate, which is in simple terms just a harder version of high school. In order to pass the IB I basically just have to write a EE on something I'm Interested in which is astrophysics, but since I've basically never learnt anything about that topic, might be a little too difficult to do something like finding the age of a galaxy using HR Diagrams and etc. For this work I basically around 2-3 months of time to do it, which most of I will do in Summer so June July August.
 
  • #4
Since you are interested in astrophysics, the hot topic these days are the results being obtained from the James Webb Space Telescope. I think that you could easily write a 4,000 word essay on that subject and learn a lot in the process. I encourage you go farther than restating old knowledge. There are new things being discovered every day and studies that will be done very soon. You can start by getting some current information on Dr. Becky's YouTube channel. Here is an example.
 
  • Like
Likes DaveE, Klystron and BillTre
  • #5
FactChecker said:
Since you are interested in astrophysics, the hot topic these days are the results being obtained from the James Webb Space Telescope. I think that you could easily write a 4,000 word essay on that subject and learn a lot in the process. I encourage you go farther than restating old knowledge. There are new things being discovered every day and studies that will be done very soon. You can start by getting some current information on Dr. Becky's YouTube channel. Here is an example.
Thank you very much for your guide, I'll look at it in more detail and is it possible to perhaps dm you if I have more questions?
 
  • #6
Da_Rex said:
write a EE on something I'm Interested in which is astrophysics
Well, you can first think of resources where you may get ideas about astrophysics topics, and then look through those resources to see what catches your eye...

For example, do you check the Astronomy Picture of the Day (APOD) regularly? Each day there is a new (usually amazing) photo or illustration of some interesting object or phenomena, along with a description of it. You can look through the last couple of months of pictures to see what kinds of interesting ideas they bring up:

https://apod.nasa.gov/apod/archivepix.html

You can also do a Google search for astrophysics topics for project, which will give you lots of nice resources to read through for ideas. Here is the hit list that I got when doing that search (using Firefox browser on my laptop):

https://www.google.com/search?client=firefox-b-1-d&q=astrophysics+topics+for+project
 
  • Like
Likes Klystron, FactChecker and Da_Rex
  • #7
Da_Rex said:
Thank you very much for your guide, I'll look at it in more detail and is it possible to perhaps dm you if I have more questions?
Lesson #1: If you are not asking the right person, you are wasting your time.

I am just a casual amateur and probably not the right person to discuss this subject with. The people on the Astronomy and Astrophysics section here are the right ones to discuss these things with. If you see a good YouTube video the comment sections can sometimes get you some good answers to questions. You have to be selective about who and what you believe in those YouTube comment sections.
 
Last edited:
  • Like
Likes phinds and Da_Rex
  • #8
In the 'oldie but goodie' list of astronomy essay topics consider an essay on Sol, our local star. Plentiful data and photos, plus you can conduct your own observations with correct eye protection.

The very first 'camera obscura' before chemical photography, used a dark room with a beam of sunlight entering through a small hole at the correct time of day displayed on a wall or screen. Early optic experimenters including Isaac Newton intercepted the sunbeam with mirrors, lenses and prisms to study the nature of light. At this moment I am looking at a brilliant solar spectrum (rainbow) generated by sunlight entering a glass prism on my desk.

Search around PF for threads on sunspots. Several members study Sol and document sunspot activity, accompanying magnetic storms, and extremely cool CME (coronal mass ejections).

This begs the question: is our Sun a variable star? Will Sol sit demurely in its place on the H-R diagram for most of its existence or surprise us? Considering the vital importance of the answer to life on Earth, this subject could provide an interesting essay. See also Helium flash.
 

FAQ: Need Ideas for a Physics Astronomy EE for IB

1. What are some good topics for a Physics Astronomy Extended Essay?

Some good topics include the study of exoplanets and their atmospheres, the impact of dark matter on galaxy formation, the physics behind black holes, the analysis of cosmic microwave background radiation, or the comparison of different methods of measuring astronomical distances. Choose a topic that not only interests you but also allows for a scientific investigation that can be supported by data.

2. How can I narrow down my topic for the Extended Essay?

Narrowing down your topic can be achieved by focusing on a specific aspect of a broader subject. For example, instead of studying black holes in general, you could investigate the properties of a specific black hole or the effects of its gravitational pull on nearby stars. Additionally, consider the availability of resources and data, as well as your own interest and background knowledge in the area.

3. What kind of research methods can I use for my Astronomy EE?

You can use a variety of research methods including observational studies, simulations, or theoretical analysis. Observational studies may involve collecting data from telescopes or databases like the Sloan Digital Sky Survey. Simulations can be conducted using software to model astrophysical phenomena. Theoretical analysis may involve mathematical modeling or literature reviews of existing research in the field.

4. How important is data analysis in my Astronomy EE?

Data analysis is crucial in an Astronomy EE, as it allows you to draw meaningful conclusions from your research. Whether you are analyzing observational data, simulation results, or theoretical predictions, a thorough analysis will help you validate your hypotheses and demonstrate your understanding of the scientific method. Make sure to include appropriate statistical methods and visual representations of your data.

5. What are some common pitfalls to avoid when writing my Extended Essay?

Common pitfalls include choosing a topic that is too broad, failing to formulate a clear research question, neglecting to properly cite sources, and not adhering to the IB's guidelines for structure and format. Additionally, avoid relying solely on secondary sources; primary data collection or original analysis is highly valued. Make sure to plan your time effectively to avoid last-minute stress and ensure thorough revisions.

Similar threads

Replies
8
Views
4K
Replies
2
Views
2K
Replies
1
Views
2K
Replies
2
Views
3K
Replies
13
Views
2K
Replies
2
Views
222
Replies
1
Views
3K
Back
Top