13 Awesome Physics Research Paper Topics For High School
Physics is a broad topic that focuses on matter and the way that it moves throughout all of time and space. Within a high school curriculum, however, the study of physics often focuses on kinetic energy, atomic energy, and scientific laws and theories. If you need to write a research paper related to this broad area of study, here are 22 different topics to help get you started.
- The Violation of Einstein’s Photoelectric Effect Model
- Discuss the two separate cases when the principles behind this model were violated. Explain the physics for both.
- Thermal Energy of an Air Conditioner
- While air conditioners pump thermal energy from cold to hot, they still follow the same process as thermal energy transfer. Explain this in detail.
- Natural Gas Substitution
- Explain the growing need for natural gas and which energy-producing substitutes are viable. You can include solar or wind power, hydropower, nuclear power, oil, and/or coal.
- The Rise of Solar Energy
- Explain how solar energy is harvested and if it is as efficient as natural gas.
- Newton’s Role in the Scientific Revolution: Gravity
- Discuss how Sir Isaac Newton developed the principle of gravity and how he helped shape the field of physics.
- The Relationship between Galileo’s Theory of Motion and the Medieval Times
- The ideas that the theory of motion is built upon include concepts such as velocity, acceleration, time, and space, which were theorized about during Medieval times. Discuss the relationship.
- Einstein and His Many Roles in Physics
- Einstein is very well known for the equation E=mc2, but his role in physics did not stop there. Discuss his other theories of relativity and how he affected the field.
- Newtonian Physics
- Discuss Sir Isaac Newton and his role in physics, known as classical mechanics.
- The Salinity and Density of Water vs. Specific Gravity
- Research the relationship between water density and salinity and specific gravity. Experiment using an aquarium and then write about it.
- The Speed of Light
- Research how long it takes stars to burn out and how long it is until you see them.
- Rainbows and Visible Light
- Consider how the mind views visible light on the spectrum and how rainbows are created.
- Lightening vs. Thunder
- Why does lightening hit before the sound of thunder? How can you use this to describe the speed of sound vs. the speed of light?
- The Carousel and Centrifugal Force
- How does this fun amusement ride work? Explain centrifugal force.