complex science fair experiments

• Grades 6-12
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50 Top 8th Grade Science Fair Projects and Classroom Activities

Find interesting ideas to engage all learners!

Whether your students are preparing for the science fair or you’re looking for classroom ideas to grab their interest, we’ve got the answers! Find lots of 8th grade science fair projects across a spectrum of topics and difficulty levels (including plenty of easy science fair project ideas). Plus, check out fun classroom demos and hands-on experiments and activities your students will love.

To make it easier to find classroom activities or science fair projects for 8th graders, we’ve rated all the projects and activities by difficulty and the materials needed:

Difficulty:

• Easy: Low or no-prep experiments you can do pretty much anytime
• Medium: These take a little more setup or a longer time to complete
• Advanced: Experiments like these take a fairly big commitment of time or effort
• Basic: Simple items you probably already have around the house
• Medium: Items that you might not already have but are easy to get your hands on
• Advanced: These require specialized or more expensive supplies to complete

Biology and Life Science 8th Grade Science Fair Projects

Chemistry 8th grade science fair projects, physics and engineering 8th grade science fair projects, 8th grade science classroom demos, experiments, and hands-on activities.

Explore human behavior, plants and animals, the water cycle, and more with these 8th grade science fair project ideas.

Measure and compare lung capacity

Difficulty: Easy / Materials: Medium

This experiment combines math and biology to measure lung capacity using a balloon. There are a lot of interesting hypotheses students can form, document, and explore while taking these measurements.

Learn more: Measuring Lung Capacity at Blog She Wrote

Guide a growing plant through a maze

Difficulty: Medium / Materials: Basic ADVERTISEMENT

Prove that plants really do seek out the light by setting up a simple or complex maze. This is a simple 8th grade science project with really cool results.

Learn more: Plant Light Maze at KiwiCo

Explore symbiosis with nitrogen-fixing bacteria

Difficulty: Medium / Materials: Medium

Many plants depend on nitrogen for growth, but how important is it? This science project compares the growth of pea plants with and without nitrogen-fixing bacteria.

Learn more: Nitrogen and Plants at Education.com

Test water quality

A water-testing kit opens up limitless options for 8th grade science fair projects. Test the water quality of local streams, swimming pools, or even the taps at home.

Learn more: Water Quality Experiment at The Homeschool Scientist

Cast animal tracks

Explore wildlife biology by becoming an expert tracker! Learn to identify tracks and take casts. Turn this into an experiment by trying different methods to take casts, or use it as a method of identifying wildlife in the woods.

Learn more: Casting Animal Tracks at Blog She Wrote

Determine a plant’s favorite music

Play different types of music for plants, then observe and document any changes in the growth and development of the plants as they’re exposed to different genres of music.

Conduct fingerprint analysis

Budding forensic scientists will love this idea. Learn to dust for prints and try a technique called “fuming” for trickier surfaces. See if you can compare prints and make accurate matches in the classroom. You can buy a fingerprinting kit just for kids  or use supplies from around the house.

Learn more: Fingerprinting at Home Science Tools

Examine the connection between personality and memory

Difficulty: Medium / Materials: Basic

Do introverts have better memories than extroverts? This science project aims to find out. Round up some willing volunteers and administer the Myers-Briggs personality test, then challenge your subjects with a memory test. The results may or may not surprise you!

Learn more: Memory and Personality at Education.com

Measure algae growth

Fertilizer runoff has become a serious cause of water pollution. In this experiment, students will see its effects firsthand and brainstorm ways to keep it in check.

Learn more: Algae and Pollution Experiment at Layers of Learning

Water plants with different liquids

In this easy science fair project, kids water plants with different liquids, like rainwater, tap water, salt water, and even soda. They might be surprised at the results!

Learn more: Effecting Plant Growth at Calm the Chaos Parenting

Beakers and test tubes, pouring and mixing … do it all with these fun chemistry science fair project ideas for 8th graders.

Perform a starch test with iodine

This simple chemistry experiment uses iodine to determine the starch content of food items. Use the process to perform a variety of 8th grade science experiments related to food.

Learn more: Starch Test at Biology Notes for IGCSE

Keep your hands warm

If you live in a chilly part of the world, chances are you’ve seen chemical hand warmers for sale. In this 8th grade science fair project, use oxidation to make your own hand warmer, and find other creative ways to use this heating process.

Learn more: Homemade Hand Warmer at Steve Spangler Science

Compare electrolytes in sports drinks

Sports-loving kids will enjoy the chance to learn just how many valuable electrolytes their favorite sports drinks contain. Compare them with water or orange juice for a cool science fair project. You’ll need a few special supplies, like a multimeter and an ohm resistor , but they’re not too expensive and they’re easy to find.

Turn juice into spheres

You’ll need a few special supplies for this experiment , but the results are so cool. Turn spherification into a science fair project by experimenting with different beverages and liquids.

Block the sun’s UV rays

Use color-changing UV beads to test the protective power of medicine bottles, hats, clothing, and more. This is an easy 8th grade science fair project with nearly endless possibilities.

Grow a carbon sugar snake

Remember those little black pellets that fire up into long snakes on the 4th of July? This is the same concept but much bigger! The simple chemical reaction of sugar and baking soda makes it happen. Turn this into an 8th grade science fair project by varying the formula to create even bigger results!

Learn more: Carbon Sugar Snake at KiwiCo

Create a rainbow of flames

You can change the color of fire by adding chemicals found at your local grocery store—what a sight! How can you use these flame colors to determine the chemical content of other materials? Sounds like a cool 8th grade science fair project!

Get your laundry really clean

Find out if all those laundry detergent commercials are really telling the truth with this 8th grade science fair experiment. Test their cleaning power on a variety of stains and fabrics, and analyze your results.

Learn more: Science of Cleaning Products at Steve Spangler Science

Study the effects of acid rain

Difficulty: Easy / Materials: Basic

In this project, students use chalk as a stand-in for stone to learn how acid rain affects buildings, statues, and more. Turn this into a science fair project by exploring ways to mitigate the effects of the acidity.

Extract bismuth from Pepto Bismol

Difficulty: Advanced / Materials: Advanced

This is the kind of project that really makes you feel like a scientist. Grinding tablets with a mortar and pestle, filtering in beakers, heating over a Bunsen burner … this is what chemistry is all about!

Learn more: Extracting Bismuth at Popular Science

Optimize fermentation temperature

Delve into the mystery of how temperature affects the fermentation process and determine the optimum temperature for yeast development. (Test your hypothesis by baking a loaf of bread!)

Learn more: Hot Yeast at Elemental Blogging

Brew up some root beer

Who says science can’t be delicious ? Tinker with the basic root beer recipe to make it sweeter, fizzier, or better in any way you like!

Learn more: Root Beer Science at Steve Spangler Science

For those who love to build and tinker, try a science fair project that experiments with various physics concepts like energy, electricity, motion, and more.

Build a better light bulb

First, use the steps at the link to build a simple light bulb with a jar, some wire, and a 6-volt battery . Then, turn it into an 8th grade science fair project by tinkering with the various materials to make a light bulb that lasts longer, burns brighter, or is powered by an alternative source.

Learn more: Build a Light Bulb at 123 Homeschool 4 Me

Test the strength of interleaved paper

Paper seems smooth and slides apart easily, right? Not when you add friction into the mix! Mythbusters was amazed at how much strength it took to pull apart two interleaved phone books. Try this with smaller books for an 8th grade science fair project that people won’t believe!

Stand on a pile of paper cups

Combine physics and engineering and challenge 8th grade science students to create a paper cup structure that can support their weight. This is a cool project for aspiring architects.

Learn more: Paper Cup Stack at Science Sparks

Cook up a tasty treat with solar energy

Students can design and build a solar oven, and then use it to cook food to compare the cooking time and temperature with a conventional oven. See if you can improve on the original design by changing up the materials or construction.

Investigate advanced properties of liquids

Do surface tension and viscosity decrease with increasing temperature? Find out in this 8th grade science fair project.

Learn more: Surface Tension and Viscosity at Education.com

Make a solar desalinator

Clean freshwater is a valuable commodity. Construct solar-powered desalination devices with readily available materials, and find the most effective desalination methods.

Engineer a roller coaster loop

Kids may have created marble roller coasters before, but have they ever built one with a loop-the-loop? They’ll have to experiment to find out which initial height gives a marble the speed it needs to complete the journey.

Capture a picture of lightning

Difficulty: Advanced / Materials: Medium

Lichtenberg figures capture the branching path of electricity as it travels through an object. You can make your own in a variety of ways, including burning it into wood or acrylic.

Learn more: Lichtenberg Figures at Science Notes

Crash cars for science

This is a great class project for teachers, but it’s also excellent for an 8th grade science fair project. Build cars and crash-test them to learn the best methods of keeping passengers safe.

Learn more: STEM Car Crash Project at The Ardent Teacher

Discover the center of gravity

Once you find and maintain its center of gravity, almost any object will balance, even in surprising circumstances. Using this concept, what amazing objects can you balance and where?

Learn more: Center of Gravity at Rookie Parenting

Power up homemade batteries

Building batteries is a classic science experiment for any age. Make it into an 8th grade science fair project by trying different variables and exploring the amount of power you can produce.

Learn more: DIY Batteries at 123 Homeschool 4 Me

Assemble a spring balance scale

Apply Hooke’s law to find out if the stretching of a spring can be used to accurately measure the weight of objects. The materials are simple, but you’ll need patience and physics to calibrate a spring and use it to test weights.

Design a robotic hand

This is a project that can be tweaked by coming up with ways to improve upon the design. Can you build a hand that can pick up a ball? How about one that can pluck up a piece of string? So many possibilities!

Learn more: DIY Model Robot Hand STEM Activity at Mombrite

Build an infinity mirror

Experiment with optical illusions by creating a tunnel of lights that seems to stretch away into infinity. Eighth grade science students will learn about engineering and the physics of optics along the way.

Construct a Rube Goldberg machine

Create a machine to complete a simple task in the most complicated fashion! This is a neat 8th grade STEM fair project because it allows you to use a variety of physics concepts in a fun way.

Explore a wide variety of 8th grade science concepts with these fun and engaging activities.

Protect an egg in a crash

We love this spin on the classic egg-drop project. In this version, students build a structure to protect an egg during a collision with a wall, making the connection between crash tests and physics concepts.

Drop an egg to prove the first law of motion

This experiment looks like a magic trick, but it’s firmly grounded in Newton’s first law of motion. When you knock the pie tin out of the way, the egg falls straight into the glass thanks to inertia. (Worried about making a mess? Use plastic eggs instead.)

Learn more: Egg Drop Inertia Challenge at Steve Spangler Science

Break out the leaf blower to teach Bernoulli’s principle

Eighth grade science students have probably seen a Bernoulli demo or two, often with straws and Ping-Pong balls. So grab their attention by trying it with a leaf blower and a beach ball instead!

Assemble a Newton’s cradle

Newton’s cradle is a fascinating way of demonstrating momentum and energy transfer. Follow the directions at the link to build one, or challenge 8th grade science students to experiment with their own construction methods.

Learn more: Newton’s Cradle at Babble Dabble Do

Extinguish a candle without blowing it out

Combine an acid/base experiment with some fire science in this really popular classroom science demo. It seems like magic, but it’s just science!

Relight a candle without touching it

Tell students you’re going to relight a candle without touching the flame to the wick. The results will boggle their minds!

Learn more: Magic Traveling Flame at Steve Spangler Science

Demonstrate the “unpoppable” balloon

Your students won’t believe you when you say you can hold a balloon up to a flame without popping it. Use the conductivity of water to prove your point.

Extract your own DNA

DNA is the blueprint of life, and you’ll be surprised at how easy it is to extract your own with a few simple supplies. Preserve it in alcohol in the freezer when you’re done.

Learn more: How To Extract DNA at Home at Home Science Tools

Build a trash can air cannon

This is such a fun way to demonstrate an air vortex! It takes a little effort to build the air cannon, but you can use it year after year for amazing 8th grade science demos.

Separate water into hydrogen and oxygen

Use electrolysis to prove that water really is made up of hydrogen and oxygen. It’s a simple concept but one that never fails to amaze.

Learn more: Separating Water at Navigating by Joy

Assemble a ring of Pringles

Everybody loves an edible STEM challenge! Here’s one that seems simple but takes some time to work out: Build a ring of Pringles chips without using any other materials.

Construct a cup holder

Can your 8th grade science students build a device to stabilize and carry two cups of water, using only a few simple supplies? Oh, and can they manage it in just 5 minutes? This timed challenge pushes their creative engineering limits!

Learn more: Cup Holder STEM Challenge at Homeschool Creations

Navigate a light maze

Here’s the STEM challenge: Bounce a beam of light around a corner past an obstacle. Increase the difficulty by adding more obstacles and variables.

Engage your 8th grade science students further with these 24 Science Kits for Middle and High School That Make Hands-On Lessons Easy .

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211+ Science Fair Project Ideas For High School Students

September 20, 2024

High school students, get ready for exciting science! Science fair projects let you explore cool ideas and discover new things. You can build robots, grow crystals, or invent useful things. These projects are fun and help you learn a lot. They show how smart you are and help you solve problems. Science fairs are a great way to learn more about the world around us. So put on your thinking cap and prepare to create something awesome for your science fair project!

Must Read: Top 20 Comic Project Ideas for Students 2024

Table of Contents

How Do I Choose A Topic For A Science Fair Project?

When picking a science fair project, think about these things :

• Pick a topic you’re curious about.
• Ensure you have enough time, tools, and skills to finish the project.
• Try to find a new or different way to explore your topic.
• Choose a topic where you can create and test a hypothesis.
• Make sure the project matches your learning level.
• Stay away from risky materials or activities.
• Think about current science topics or local environmental issues.
• Pick a project you can complete before the deadline.

To narrow down your ideas:

• List the science topics you enjoy.
• Research current issues in those topics.
• Brainstorm questions you want to answer.
• Think about the materials you have.
• Talk about your ideas with your teacher or parents.

Science Fair Project Ideas For High School Students

List of fantastic science fair project ideas for high school students across various categories:

• How plants grow in space
• Bacteria in different water sources
• Effects of music on plant growth
• Animal behavior in different light conditions
• Mold growth on various foods
• Impact of pollution on local ecosystems
• Fruit fly genetics and inheritance patterns
• Heart rate changes during exercise
• Effects of caffeine on memory
• Plant growth with different fertilizers
• Comparing human and animal DNA
• Microplastics in marine life samples
• Effects of sleep on test performance
• Bird migration patterns in your area
• Impact of temperature on enzyme activity
• Antibiotic resistance in common bacteria
• Effects of video games on reflexes
• Plant growth in different colored light
• Soil composition and plant health
• Effects of stress on the immune system
• Making biodegradable plastic from plants
• Comparing the effectiveness of cleaning products
• Acid rain effects on plant growth
• Creating natural dyes from plants
• Electrolysis of different salt solutions
• Density of various liquids experiment
• Making a battery from fruit
• Crystal growth under different conditions
• Comparing antacids for stomach acid relief
• Extracting DNA from various fruits
• Making soap from natural ingredients
• Comparing water quality from different sources
• Rust formation on different metals
• Making invisible ink with household items
• Comparing different types of sunscreen
• Creating a homemade lava lamp
• Testing pH levels of standard drinks
• Making a simple water filter
• Comparing different types of fire extinguishers
• Creating your chemical garden
• Building a simple electric motor
• Measuring sound insulation of materials
• Creating a homemade wind turbine
• Testing aerodynamics of different shapes
• Building a solar-powered oven
• Comparing the efficiency of light bulbs
• Making a working hydraulic arm
• Testing the strength of different bridges
• Creating a homemade seismograph
• Measuring friction on different surfaces
• Building a simple spectroscope
• Testing water pressure at different depths
• Creating a pinhole camera
• Comparing different types of insulation
• Making a working hovercraft model
• Testing magnetism of various materials
• Building a simple electric generator
• Comparing bounce heights of different balls
• Creating a homemade thermometer
• Testing sound travel through materials

Earth Science:

• Measuring erosion in local streams
• Creating a model of plate tectonics
• Testing soil pH in different areas
• Building a working weather station
• Comparing different types of rocks
• Creating a model of the water cycle
• Testing air quality in your area
• Building a working volcano model
• Comparing different types of clouds
• Creating a model of ocean currents
• Testing the porosity of different soils
• Building a working earthquake-resistant structure
• Comparing different types of fossils
• Creating a model of the greenhouse effect
• Testing the effects of acid rain
• Building a working solar still
• Comparing different kinds of minerals
• Creating a model of a watershed
• Testing the impact of deforestation
• Building a working wind vane

Environmental Science:

• Testing the biodegradability of different materials
• Comparing the energy efficiency of appliances
• Creating a composting system
• Testing air pollution levels in your area
• Comparing the effectiveness of recycling methods
• Creating a rainwater collection system
• Testing effects of oil spills
• Comparing different types of renewable energy
• Creating a vertical garden system
• Testing the effectiveness of natural pesticides
• Comparing carbon footprints of activities
• Creating a greywater recycling system
• Testing effects of invasive species
• Comparing different types of eco-friendly packaging
• Creating a model of a sustainable city
• Testing the effectiveness of water conservation methods
• Comparing different types of biofuels
• Creating a small-scale aquaponics system
• Testing effects of light pollution
• Comparing different types of solar panels
• Building a working telescope
• Tracking sunspots over time
• Creating a scale model solar system
• Measuring light pollution in your area
• Building a working sundial
• Tracking moon phases and tides
• Creating a star map of constellations
• Measuring asteroid impacts on the moon’s surface
• Building a working planetarium projector
• Tracking planetary movements over time

Computer Science:

• Creating a simple chatbot program
• Building a basic website
• Developing a mobile app
• Creating a simple computer game
• Building a basic encryption program
• Developing an image recognition program
• Creating a simple weather prediction algorithm
• Building a basic network security system
• Developing a voice recognition program
• Creating a simple artificial intelligence program

Mathematics:

• Exploring fractals in nature
• Analyzing traffic patterns using statistics
• Creating a mathematical model of population growth
• Exploring the golden ratio in art
• Analyzing probability in card games
• Creating a mathematical model of disease spread
• Exploring patterns in prime numbers
• Analyzing the efficiency of different sorting algorithms
• Creating a mathematical model of climate change
• Exploring geometry in architecture

Psychology:

• Testing effects of color on mood
• Analyzing decision-making in different scenarios
• Testing memory recall techniques
• Analyzing the impact of social media usage
• Testing perception of time in activities
• Analyzing the effects of multitasking on performance
• Testing the effectiveness of study techniques
• Analyzing the effects of music on concentration
• Testing perception of optical illusions
• Analyzing the effects of praise on motivation
• Building a line-following robot
• Creating a robotic arm
• Developing an obstacle-avoiding robot
• Building a solar-powered robot
• Creating a robot that sorts objects
• Developing a robot that draws
• Building a robot that climbs stairs
• Creating a robot that plays music
• Developing a robot that solves puzzles
• Building a robot that plants seeds

Microbiology:

• Testing the effectiveness of hand sanitizers
• Analyzing bacteria growth on money
• Testing antibiotic resistance in soil bacteria
• Analyzing microbes in different ecosystems
• Testing effects of probiotics on digestion
• Analyzing bacteria in different types of milk
• Testing effects of natural antibiotics
• Analyzing microbes in fermented foods
• Testing effects of UV light on bacteria
• Analyzing bacteria in different water sources
• Analyzing genetic traits in families
• Testing for GMOs in food products
• Analyzing DNA extraction methods
• Testing for genetic markers in plants
• Analyzing inheritance patterns in pets
• Testing effects of mutations on bacteria
• Analyzing genetic diversity in populations
• Testing for genetic modifications in crops
• Analyzing epigenetic changes in plants
• Testing for genetic resistance in insects

Neuroscience:

• Testing effects of meditation on brainwaves
• Analyzing reaction times to different stimuli
• Testing effects of sleep deprivation
• Analyzing brain lateralization in tasks
• Testing effects of music on brain activity
• Analyzing decision-making in moral dilemmas
• Testing effects of exercise on cognition
• Analyzing learning styles and memory
• Testing effects of scents on mood
• Analyzing brain plasticity in learning

Biochemistry:

• Testing enzyme activity in different conditions
• Analyzing protein denaturation in cooking
• Testing effects of pH on digestion
• Analyzing vitamin C content in foods
• Testing effects of temperature on fermentation
• Analyzing lipid content in different diets
• Testing effects of antioxidants on oxidation
• Analyzing glucose levels after meals
• Testing effects of preservatives on food
• Analyzing hormone levels in plants
• Analyzing animal behavior in crowds
• Testing effects of artificial light on insects
• Analyzing camouflage effectiveness in animals
• Testing Effects of diet on Pet Health
• Analyzing communication patterns in ants
• Testing effects of noise on wildlife
• Analyzing migration patterns of local birds
• Testing effects of habitat loss simulation
• Analyzing social structures in fish schools
• Testing effects of pheromones on insects
• Analyzing the effects of music on plant growth
• Testing germination rates of different seeds
• Analyzing phototropism in different plants
• Testing effects of colored water on flowers
• Analyzing allelopathy between plant species
• Testing effects of different soils on growth
• Analyzing transpiration rates in plants
• Testing effects of pruning on plant growth
• Analyzing seed dispersal mechanisms
• Testing effects of gravity on root growth

Oceanography:

• Analyzing the effects of temperature on water density
• Testing effects of oil on marine life
• Analyzing ocean acidification with shells
• Testing effects of salinity on buoyancy
• Analyzing marine debris in local waters
• Testing effects of pollution on coral
• Analyzing bioluminescence in marine organisms
• Testing effects of currents on dispersal
• Analyzing wave patterns and beach erosion
• Testing effects of depth on water pressure

Meteorology:

• Analyzing cloud formation in a bottle
• Testing effects of pressure on boiling point
• Analyzing the formation of tornadoes in jars
• Testing effects of altitude on temperature
• Analyzing dew point and relative humidity
• Testing effects of wind on evaporation
• Analyzing air pressure with crushing cans
• Testing effects of land and water heating
• Analyzing the formation of fog in jars
• Testing effects of pollution on rainfall
• Analyzing lightning formation with static electricity

Winning science fair projects for high school

• Developing a machine learning algorithm to detect early signs of plant diseases.
• Investigating the effects of microplastics on aquatic ecosystems.
• Creating a low-cost water purification system using locally available materials.
• Studying the impact of different light wavelengths on plant growth and nutrition.
• Designing and testing a new method for capturing atmospheric carbon dioxide.
• Analyzing the effectiveness of natural vs. synthetic antibiotics on resistant bacteria.
• Developing a smartphone app for early detection of skin cancer.
• Investigating CRISPR gene editing to fight crop diseases.
• Creating and testing biodegradable alternatives to common plastics.
• Studying social media effects on teenage mental health and sleep patterns.

National winning science fair projects

• Developing an AI-powered prosthetic hand with improved sensory feedback.
• Creating a method to detect Alzheimer’s early using eye tracking.
• Designing a low-cost, portable device for quick diagnosis of infectious diseases.
• Using genetically modified bacteria to clean up oil spills.
• Developing a new technique for eco-friendly removal of space debris.
• Creating an algorithm to predict and prevent power grid failures.
• Studying gut bacteria for its potential to combat obesity.
• Designing a solar-powered system to collect water from the air in dry regions.
• Investigating nanoparticles for targeted cancer treatment.
• Developing a method to convert plastic waste into fuel.

Last-minute science fair projects for high school

• Comparing homemade and commercial cleaning products for effectiveness.
• Testing how music genres affect plant growth.
• Investigating temperature’s effect on battery life.
• Analyzing the link between social media usage and academic performance.
• Testing natural methods for water purification.
• Comparing insulation properties of household materials.
• Investigating how light colors affect reaction times.
• Testing different methods for removing stains from fabric.
• Analyzing caffeine’s effect on memory and focus.
• Investigating the effect of cooking methods on vitamin content in vegetables.

These project ideas range from complex, long-term topics to simple, quick experiments. A successful science fair project isn’t just about the idea—it’s about your experimental design, data collection, analysis, and presentation. 

For last-minute projects, focus on topics that are easy to complete using available materials but add a unique spin to make them stand out.

Science Fair Ideas for 8th Grade

Biology and Life Science

• Plant Growth Experiment : Test how different factors like light, water, or nutrients affect plant growth.
• Microorganism Culture : Grow bacteria or fungi in various environments to observe their behavior.
• Genetic Inheritance : Study traits in plants or animals to learn how genetics are passed down.
• Enzyme Activity : Test how temperature, pH, or substrate concentration affect how enzymes work.
• Photosynthesis : Measure photosynthesis rates in plants under different conditions.

Chemistry 6. Crystal Formation : Grow crystals using different substances and observe their shapes and sizes. 7. Acid-Base Titration : Use titration to find the concentration of an unknown acid or base. 8. Electrolysis of Water : Split water into hydrogen and oxygen gases using an electric current. 9. Polymer Synthesis : Create polymers from different materials and study their properties. 10. Chromatography : Use chromatography to separate components of a mixture.

Science Fair Ideas for 7th Grade

• Simple Machines : Investigate how different simple machines like levers and pulleys work.
• Electricity and Circuits : Build circuits to study how voltage, current, and resistance relate.
• Sound Waves : Experiment with sound waves to understand their properties.
• Motion and Forces : Study motion laws and see how forces affect objects.
• Light and Optics : Explore how light works, including reflection and refraction.

Earth and Environmental Science 6. Water Filtration : Test materials to see how well they filter water. 7. Soil Erosion : Study what causes soil erosion and find ways to prevent it. 8. Weather Patterns : Study the weather in your area and figure out what causes changes. 9. Mineral Identification : Identify minerals based on their physical traits. 10. Renewable Energy : Explore renewable energy sources and how they can be used.

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Science fair project ideas for high school students can lead to exciting futures. These projects help teens discover their interests and maybe even their future careers. By doing hands-on experiments, students learn to think like real scientists. 

They get better at solving problems and explaining their ideas. Science fairs also look great on college applications. Some students might even win prizes or scholarships for their work.

The skills learned from science projects can be used in many parts of life, not just in science class. So, high schoolers, dive into your projects with excitement. Your next experiment could lead to something big!

I am a creative professional with over 5 years of experience in coming up with project ideas. I'm great at brainstorming, doing market research, and analyzing what’s possible to develop innovative and impactful projects. I also excel in collaborating with teams, managing project timelines, and ensuring that every idea turns into a successful outcome. Let's work together to make your next project a success!

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10 Cool Chemistry Experiments

ThoughtCo / Hilary Allison

• Projects & Experiments
• Chemical Laws
• Periodic Table
• Scientific Method
• Biochemistry
• Physical Chemistry
• Medical Chemistry
• Chemistry In Everyday Life
• Famous Chemists
• Activities for Kids
• Abbreviations & Acronyms
• Weather & Climate
• Ph.D., Biomedical Sciences, University of Tennessee at Knoxville
• B.A., Physics and Mathematics, Hastings College

Chemistry is king when it comes to making science cool. There are many interesting and fun projects to try, but these 10 chemistry experiments might be the coolest.

Whether you want to witness color transformations with copper and nitric acid or create a foam spectacle with hydrogen peroxide and potassium iodide, there's something here to spark curiosity in everyone. There's even a famous chemical reaction that will emit blue light and a characteristic barking or woofing sound.

Copper and Nitric Acid

When you place a piece of copper in nitric acid , the Cu 2+ ions and nitrate ions coordinate to color the solution green and then brownish-green. If you dilute the solution, water displaces nitrate ions around the copper, and the solution changes to blue.

Hydrogen Peroxide with Potassium Iodide

Affectionately known as elephant toothpaste , the chemical reaction between peroxide and potassium iodide shoots out a column of foam. If you add food coloring, you can customize the "toothpaste" for holiday-colored themes.

Any Alkali Metal in Water

Any of the alkali metals will react vigorously in water . How vigorously? Sodium burns bright yellow. Potassium burns violet. Lithium burns red. Cesium explodes. Experiment by moving down the alkali metals group of the periodic table. 

Thermite Reaction

The thermite reaction essentially shows what would happen if iron rusted instantly, rather than over time. In other words, it's making metal burn. If the conditions are right, just about any metal will burn. However, the reaction usually is performed by reacting iron oxide with aluminum:

Fe 2 O 3  + 2Al → 2Fe + Al 2 O 3  + heat and light

If you want a truly stunning display, try placing the mixture inside a block of dry ice and then lighting the mixture.

Coloring Fire

 SEAN GLADWELL / Getty Images

When ions are heated in a flame, electrons become excited and then drop to a lower energy state, emitting photons. The energy of the photons is characteristic of the chemical and corresponds to specific flame colors . It's the basis for the flame test in analytical chemistry , plus it's fun to experiment with different chemicals to see what colors they produce in a fire.

Make Polymer Bouncy Balls

Who doesn't enjoy playing with bouncy balls ? The chemical reaction used to make the balls makes a terrific experiment because you can alter the properties of the balls by changing the ratio of the ingredients.

Make a Lichtenberg Figure

A Lichtenberg figure or "electrical tree" is a record of the path taken by electrons during an electrostatic discharge. It's basically frozen lightning. There are several ways you can make an electrical tree.

Experiment with 'Hot Ice'

Hot ice is a name given to sodium acetate, a chemical you can make by reacting vinegar and baking soda. A solution of sodium acetate can be supercooled​ so that it will crystallize on command. Heat is evolved when the crystals form, so although it resembles water ice, it's hot.

Barking Dog Experiment

The Barking Dog is the name given to a chemiluminescent reaction involving the exothermic combination of either nitrous oxide or nitrogen monoxide with carbon disulfide. The reaction proceeds down a tube, emitting blue light and a characteristic "woof" sound.

Another version of the demonstration involves coating the inside of a clear jug with alcohol and igniting the vapor. The  flame front proceeds down the ​bottle , which also barks.

Dehydration of Sugar

When you react sugar with sulfuric acid , the sugar is violently dehydrated. The result is a growing column of carbon black, heat, and the overwhelming odor of burnt caramel.

Easy Science Experiments

Want something less extravagant but still fun? These easy science experiments are doable with items you likely already have at home—from creating invisible ink with baking soda to making homemade ice cream in a plastic bag.

• Where to Buy Saltpeter or Potassium Nitrate
• Vitamin C Determination by Iodine Titration
• Cool Dry Ice Experiments
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• Equation for the Reaction Between Baking Soda and Vinegar
• 5 Ways to Make Glue
• How to Grow Table Salt or Sodium Chloride Crystals
• Color Change Chemistry Experiments
• How to Melt Aluminum Cans at Home
• 10 Cool Chemistry Demonstrations for Educators
• Science Projects for Every Subject
• 10 Fun Chemistry Demonstrations and Experiments
• Valentine's Day Chemistry
• Thames & Kosmos Chem 3000 Chemistry Kit Review
• Halloween Reaction or Old Nassau Reaction
• How to Do the Color Change Chameleon Chemistry Demonstration

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Top 10 Science Fair Projects That Are Actually Impressive

In recent years, the world has seen the essence of innovation. Innovation has made everything evolve, making life easier for people and organizations. As such, educational institutions embrace activities that allow students to do extensive research.

Science fair projects are part of the exciting activities that students take part in at their schools. They are instrumental as they allow the students to explore and be inventive. However, it may be challenging to develop a successful science fair project. In such scenarios, some impressive ideas can help kickstart your journey. So let’s leave the erupting chicken-wire volcano and vegetable batteries in the past and try something a bit different.

Here are some top 10 remarkable science fair projects you can try.

Related: 10 Times We Recreated Ancient History With Science

10 Sun Tracking Solar Panel

The main objective of the device is to keep the flat panel that holds the solar cell facing the sun as it shifts position in the sky. The incoming light must be perpendicular to the panel for maximum electricity generation by solar panels.

The essence of a solar tracker is to rotate the panel. The rotation happens along two axes so that the panel is always perpendicular to the incoming light. The energy output may increase by up to 25% compared to a fixed panel.

Aside from the panels, the trackers also help coordinate the collectors. The trackers ensure the collectors are aligned to face the sun directly. Collectors are inefficient enough if they are not aligned entirely with the sun’s direction.

Some items you may need for this project include an Arduino board, power supply, USB cable, straight pins, wires, servo, and mounting screws.

The project is unique and also beneficial because it serves the people appropriately. Anyone with a solar panel would like to receive maximum energy from the sun. The system makes it possible to experience that as a need or a want.

9 POV Clock

POV is an acronym for “persistence of vision.” It is an excellent optical illusion where a digital representation remains even after the light stops entering our eyes. You may decide to showcase any text or image you would like.

A textual representation of what happens is when a beam of light periodically stops for very brief moments. During that time, light does not enter the eyes. POV occurs, causing a visual image to appear to exist continuously.

The human eye can only process ten or fewer images per second. We see the visuals in motion when several images, over ten, are displayed quickly, one after the other. A POV clock is fascinating and attractive, putting it among the top science fair projects you could try.

Here is a list of components and supplies that you may need for this science fair project:

• Arduino Nano R3
• Soldering iron
• DC Motor (It could be generic)
• Slide switch
• Resistor 220 ohm
• Linear Regulator

8 Smart Irrigation System

Everyone, including farmers, can benefit from worthwhile projects such as the smart irrigation system. Irrigation gives plants regulated amounts of water at necessary intervals. In dry locations and during times of below-average rainfall, irrigation comes in handy for the growth of crops. Irrigation also helps maintain ecosystems, stabilize soil, and revegetate damaged soils.

The science fair project’s goal is to use a Node microcontroller to create an automated watering system that is time and money efficient. Immediately the soil moisture sensor utilized as the center core detects inadequate moisture levels, and the envisioned system kickstarts the process of watering the plants.

With true innovation, it may be possible to integrate the system into the internet. The process will make it possible to operate everything from an application to a smartphone. The idea behind this project is to allow landowners to oversee and monitor the development of their crops and farm.

The Smart Irrigation System Using IoT is impressive and beneficial because it simplifies farmers’ lives. Farmers do not have to constantly check their farms when the realization of such projects can do all the monitoring and essential work needed.

7 Smart Alarm Clock

The Internet of Things has enabled the development of beneficial, cost-effective systems. A smart alarm clock using IoT is an impressive project since the clock has numerous advantages. It is possible to place a sensor anywhere around the bedroom area. The sensor can determine the number of hours one sleeps and whether an individual is getting enough sleep.

One of the essential things that improve the quality of sleep is posture. Sleeping in a bad posture can make you wake up feeling grumpy or in a low mood. A smart alarm clock can determine your sleep posture, which means it is a quality sleep enhancer.

Lastly, selecting a tune of your choice is possible with a smart alarm clock. It allows you to decide what kind of tunes you want to hear when you wake up.

There is a massive difference between a traditional clock and a smart clock. A traditional clock goes off based on the time set by the user. However, a smart clock only goes off based on whether the individual has had enough rest.

These are some of the items you need to come up with a simple and effective smart alarm clock:

• LCD Display
• Breadboards
• Cables And Connectors

6 Magnetic Slime

Magnetic slime is an impressive science fair project for teenagers and children. It is possible to develop a magnetic slime. Iron makes up magnetic slime, which is drawn to powerful magnets. The slime is stretchy, making it fun, especially for teenagers or even adults. The current recipe for the slime is more enjoyable with less mess.

Here is what you need to gather to make magnetic slime:

• Measuring spoon
• Measuring cup
• Plastic spoons
• Liquid starch
• Elmer’s glue
• Iron Oxide powder
• A neodymium magnet

Neodymium magnets are pretty powerful. When attempting to detach the magnets, fingers are prone to get pinched. Ensure you keep all your gadgets away from the magnet. If you purchase small disk magnets, keeping them away from children would be best. The magnet may pose a significant danger when swallowed.

Generally, there are better projects for young children who are curious enough and still eat everything.

Breathing iron oxide powder is also not recommended. You can mix the iron with glue to avoid any risks. Aside from the disclaimers, the science fair project is recommendable.

5 Water Alarm Project

A water alarm can help you prevent significant and expensive water damage by warning you of leaks in your household’s most vulnerable areas. Minor and major water leaks are expensive for homeowners and house insurance companies. It is even sad because the situation is avoidable as water alarms can help detect anything water-related that has gone amiss.

Fortunately, putting one or more water alarms in a home can save homeowners from paying for expensive repairs and hassle. The detection is made possible by a sensor in the alarm. The sensor causes the control unit to raise the alarm either loudly inside the house or via a connected phone. Water alarms are low-risk for any household concerned about leaks because they are typically affordable.

It is recommended to place the water alarms in areas where water consumption happens often. For example, some areas include under sinks and near washing machines or washing areas.

Check out some of the items you will need to create a water alarm:

• PCB 1 Perforated
• Solder wire
• Soldering iron 1
• Battery 1 3v-5v
• Copper Plate 2 L-5cm B-2cm
• Solder flux

4 Rain Alarm Project

The Rain Alarm Project is a straightforward but beneficial project that automatically senses rain and sets off an alert. Water is essential in our everyday life. It’s crucial to conserve water and use it properly. The project aims to assist people in preserving water. Anytime the alarm sounds, it indicates rain, and a user can find ways to collect and preserve the rainwater.

Some components of coming up with a rain alarm include:

• Connecting wires
• Ceramic capacitor
• Rain sensor

One of the ways to make your project easier is by coming up with a circuit diagram for guidance.

3 Water Dispenser from Cardboard

Making a water dispenser from cardboard is an impressive science fair project. A water dispenser may be necessary when filling a bottle or other vessel with water. You can make a water dispenser from many materials, but cardboard is durable compared to the rest. 

You need the following items to make a decent water dispenser from cardboard:

• Three cardboards
• A plastic water bottle
• Clear water glass
• Origami paper
• Melting glue
• Sharp knife
• Metal scale

First, you need to determine the size of the water dispenser you want to make. Ensure it is of considerable size for efficiency. You also need to have something like glue to bind the cardboard together.

The straw acts as the dispenser tap like an ordinary dispenser usually has a regulator. The water bottle will be the one holding water; therefore, it has to be over one liter. The one liter can cater for water you can use for some time.

The project is impressive because it shows anyone can own a water dispenser. The project is cost-effective and beneficial, especially to individuals from struggling backgrounds.

2 Air Cooler Working Project

Hot days are long gone with this simple project. Here are the essential tools needed for the science fair project:

• Hot glue gun

The project is simple, and you only need to follow a few steps to develop something tangible. You need to find or purchase a large plastic jug. A box cutter will be instrumental in the process. Cut the lid of the jug and ensure the measurements you use are from a DC motor. Mark the upper part of the lid in a specific pattern that you will use to make the holes.

In the following steps, you may need another small jug. The small container will go into one side of the larger one. Use the measurements of the small container to cut the side of the jug. The small container has to fit on the side of the large jug perfectly.

After fixing the plastic jugs, connect the wires, the battery, and the switch. Do not forget the DC motor in the process. The connected materials will go through the hole made on the jar lid. An air cooler needs a fan that you will connect to the DC motor. Add ice cubes to the jar and test the homemade air cooler.

1 Earthquake Alarm

We deal with a lot of natural disasters throughout the year. Earthquakes are among the most common disasters. An earthquake detector or alarm is a system that detects earthquakes and informs people. It can help save lives because, most times, everyone needs an alert to take action. Some actions could be running to secure places or seeking emergency services.

Some of the materials you need to make your earthquake alarm include:

• Cardboard of different sizes
• 9-volt battery
• Color paper

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