pB11 Art Project

Posted by Rezwan on Oct 11, 2010 at 06:06 PM
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Derek has taken paper plates, doilies, cardboard, etc. and put together the sequence of pB11 fusion.

Getting kids (and adults) to create the reaction for themselves is more effective than just explaining it off a picture.  Many people remember better if they “make” the sequence themselves.  It’s not enough to be shown or told.  You have to see the logic of it, kinesthetically (these statements on education have not been peer reviewed.  Citation required : ))

Citation - or experiment!

We can test this theory easily enough.  Question:  Will people who use artwork to depict proton-boron fusion understand it better than people who are simply told about it?

Methodology:  Take two groups, one the test and one the control.  Show both groups the following images and explain aneutronic fusion to them.  Answer any and all questions. 
1.  Schematic of proton-boron fusion against a peace symbol. 
2.  The equation for proton boron fusion (p + B11 > 3He4 + 8.7 MeV) and some explanation of why it’s so great: 
After explaining, send the control group home on their merry way.  The test group stays around, grumbling, and has to put together the reaction from craft objects.  Perhaps apples (protons)  and oranges (neutrons).  Or the ol’ paper plate technique.  THEN they can go their merry way.

The next day, ask both groups to explain aneutronic fusion to you.  Which group explains it best? 

Publish your results.  Have those results peer reviewed.  And so on.

Eventually, you’re going to have to explain deuterium tritium fusion as well, for contrast.  Back to the educational materials drawing board. 

If there are any educators out there who want to take a crack at this with students and film it or blog about it, we’d love to hear/post/retweet your efforts.  THANKS in advance!