Date: 8–9 July 2021, 3.00–6.30
First, I went into a laser optic room. This room gathers all the light required to inspect a sample. I was told that laser needs to be very, very concentrated into a tiny area in order for the experiment to work. The scientist taught me many theories about how laser light is produced, and the uses of amny of the equipment inside the optic lab. I was told how when the electrons are ‘excited’, it bounces up to another level, resulting in more photons (particles of light) produced. When reflected off a mirror, it becomes laser light. In addition, I went inside an optical room and visited a scientist working inside with laser. She explained what her experiment was about and how she goes to do it.
Next, I went into the chemistry labs to observe what the other chemists are doing. The guiding scientist showed me one of the experimental set-ups.
It involves a very thin material on top of a plastic film. Most of them were very shiny and it emits a mysterious golden (and blue-green) light. I observed the colour change as it changes from golden to light yellow when water vapour in my breathe were blown onto it, and it is a very subtle change which I observed. I was told that this material is used to use in the areas of art and design.
One of them is making a cool experiment. She places a piece of thin black film into the water and records the amount of time for it to open up completely.
Another aspect that amazed me was how the vacuum filtration system and set-up works. First, a conical flask was placed on a mat. Then, it uses vacuum in a tube to draw out the air inside it. Then, the system acts like a filter system that only allows the filtrate (water) through but not the residue (black parts which is left inside the beaker) through the flask. I was completely mesmorized by the experiment and I wish that I could get to do experiments on it.
After that, I observed the PVDF Membrane Filters. it is a set of filters that are used for purification and sterilization of substances. Additionally, a black layer is needed to be applied on top of the membrane filter. [see below] This is done through the experiment as described below.
I was amazed at how precise the machine is and how it produces the precise length and width of the black layer required. The scientist showed me how to adjust the readings of the machine, for example, where to start and where to end. In addition, there is even a micrometer screw guage which determines the thickness of the black layer required.
Most importantly, I learnt the difference between physics and engineering. Physics is to use a set of tools to dig into the basic principles of something happening. Engineering is using this principle and knowledge (may be based on other physicist’ findings) to apply it to the natural world and to put it into practical usage.
The visit overall inspired my enthusiasm and love for learning, fuelled my ambition in experimental physics and mechanical engineering, and the types of major, careers and professional fields I am interested in in the future. This visit is definitely a once-in-a-lifetime experience as it reinforced my determination and tenacity to realising my dream.
