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Frequently Asked Questions
Division B Events

Division B Events

Reveal Questions

Questions must be directed toward the rules. We cannot pre-judge your device by answering questions on whether it complies.

Earth & Space Science
Inquiry & Nature of Science
Life, Personal & Social Science
Physical Science & Chemistry
- Chemistry
  - Crime Busters
  - Food Science
    - 03/07/2017
      
      "Students will ... build a simple calorimeter to determine the energy content of a solid foodstuff." Must the foodstuff provided for calorimetry be a grain product or can it be any solid food item?
      
      It can be any solid food item per rule 3.b. However, it should be noted that the foodstuff item itself should not require refrigeration or any kind of preservation from the item "ripening" or potentially "going bad" in a certain period of time. Therefore, items which should be considered should be packaged goods with a long shelf life (ie. potato chips, cheese puffs, crackers, etc.)
    - 03/12/2017
      
      Does the thermometer used for the calorimetry calculations, in its assembled position, have to fit within the 30 cm X 30 cm X 30 cm box?
      
      No.
    - 03/07/2017
      
      How are the calorimeters to be graded and used for the score? Does it depend on how efficient the device or how it is set up and the correct calculation?
      
      The calorimeters themselves are not graded. They are used to determine the caloric content of the food to be burned
    - 03/12/2017
      
      Is there a formula to be used to determine the scoring of the calorimeter portion?
      
      No. That is up to the event supervisor. It is 15% of the final grade. Generally, it is based on accuracy and the math involved in calculating the joules/gram of the food substance.
    - 03/12/2017
      
      Part 1 is written to appear that questions can be asked relating the "...Chemistry of Food AND food grains." Does this indicate that the test should be focused on grains, but that any questions within the broad subject of Food Chemistry are within...
      
      While the grains are the focus, other questions in the area of food science are applicable. Pleas read 3.a. part 1. Also, 4. Sample activities.
    - 11/03/2016
      
      What does "any seed" mean?
      
      Definition of seed. : a small object produced by a plant from which a new plant can grow This requires the knowledge that NO part of the fruit may be used because over time it can become rotten and students should not be exposed or working with this part in any capacity. Therefore, it is truly the smallest component from which a new plant can grow.
    - 03/12/2017
      
      Would a digital thermometer be allowed? Technically, a digital thermometer wouldn't fulfill the "non-electric" requirement because of the battery, but I wonder if that's the intent of this rule.
      
      The requirement is non-mercury. There is no requirement that the thermometer not be electric. The Calorimeter can not be electric. The thermometer is not a part of the calorimeter. Probes or digital thermometers are fine as long as it does not need to be 'plugged into' a 110v source.
- Physics
Technology & Engineering Design
- Mission Possible
  - 11/07/2016
    
    Regarding Inclined Planes it States "Raised vertically at least 10.0 cm". Does that mean raised 90 degrees from the ground or just 10.0 cm in an upward direction along the Inclined Plane?
    
    An inclined plane must be used to raise an object at least 10.0 cm vertically. The vertical distance is measured at a 90 degree angle and must be at least 10.0 cm. The object does not have to travel at a 90 degree angle but overall must rise 10.0 cm vertically above where it started before the object initiates the next action.
  - 11/07/2016
    
    States "lift an object at least 10.0 cm vertically". Does that mean it must be lifted at 90 degrees from the starting point or just moved in an upwards angle at least 10.0 cms?
    
    The pulley must lift an object at least 10.0 cm. The vertical distance is measured at a 90 degree angle and must be at least 10.0 cm. The object does not have to travel at a 90 degree angle but overall must rise 10.0 cm vertically above where it started before the object initiates the next action.
  - 11/07/2016
    
    Wheel & Axle: Is the 10 cm Vertical height or distance that object is pulled by wheel and axle?
    
    The Wheel & Axle must lift an object at least 10.0 cm vertically. The vertical distance is measured at a 90 degree angle and must be at least 10.0 cm. The object does not have to travel at a 90 degree angle but overall must rise 10.0 cm vertically above where it started before the object initiates the next action.
- Boomilever - Div B
- Elastic Launched Gliders
- Mousetrap Vehicle

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