Conclusion

1️⃣ Answer to the Research Question

The number of candles significantly affects the rotational speed of a candle carousel. Based on the experimental data, the carousel rotates faster as more candles are added. With 1 candle, the carousel did not rotate at all (0 RPM), but as more candles were added, the rotation speed increased substantially, reaching an average of 23.0 RPM with 4 candles.

The research question "How does the number of candles affect the rotational speed of a candle carousel?" can be answered by stating that there is a strong positive relationship between the number of candles and rotational speed. The carousel requires a minimum threshold of heat energy (more than 1 candle) to begin rotating, and beyond that threshold, each additional candle produces a measurable increase in rotation speed, with the relationship appearing to be non-linear.

2️⃣ Supporting Evidence

The data table shows that with 1 candle, the average speed was 0.0 RPM (no rotation), while with 4 candles, the average speed increased to 23.0 RPM. The graph clearly illustrates a positive upward trend with an accelerating rate of increase. The most dramatic increase occurred between 2 and 3 candles, where the speed more than doubled from 7.3 RPM to 15.3 RPM (a 109.6% increase).

Evidence supporting this conclusion can be found:

• In the data table on the Data & Results page, showing consistent increases across trials: 0 RPM (1 candle), 7.3 RPM (2 candles), 15.3 RPM (3 candles), and 23.0 RPM (4 candles)
• In the graph on the Graph page, which visually demonstrates a clear positive correlation with an accelerating trend
• In the statistical analysis showing increasing consistency as more candles are added (standard deviation decreases from 5.4 for 2 candles to 1.4 for 4 candles)

3️⃣ Statistical Analysis

The standard deviation across trials varied by candle configuration, with the most consistent results occurring with 4 candles (standard deviation of 1.4 RPM). The data shows that as more candles were added, the results became more consistent, suggesting that the effect becomes more reliable with greater heat energy. The relationship between number of candles and rotation speed shows a strong positive correlation, with the trend appearing non-linear rather than linear.

Key statistical findings:

• Range of variation: The range of values within each configuration decreased as more candles were added: 13.0 RPM for 2 candles, 5.0 RPM for 3 candles, and 3.0 RPM for 4 candles, indicating greater consistency with more heat sources
• Data consistency: Standard deviations were 5.4 RPM (2 candles), 2.1 RPM (3 candles), and 1.4 RPM (4 candles), showing improved consistency with more candles
• Correlation strength: The data demonstrates a strong positive correlation, with each additional candle producing measurable increases in rotation speed. The relationship is non-linear, with the largest percentage increase (109.6%) occurring between 2 and 3 candles
• Any outliers or anomalies: The first trial with 2 candles resulted in 0 RPM, which may indicate experimental variability or the need for a minimum heat threshold. However, trials 2 and 3 with 2 candles produced measurable rotation (9 and 13 RPM), confirming that 2 candles can produce rotation

4️⃣ Scientific Explanation

This data supports the hypothesis because more candles produce more thermal energy, which heats a larger volume of air. The increased heat creates stronger convection currents with greater upward velocity. When this faster-moving warm air strikes the angled blades, it exerts a greater force, resulting in increased rotational speed.

🌍 Real-World Applications

This principle applies to other real-world phenomena:

• 🌬️ Wind Turbines: Like the carousel, wind turbines convert air movement into rotational motion, though they use natural wind rather than convection currents. The same principle of angled blades converting air flow into rotation applies.
• 🎈 Hot Air Balloons: Rising hot air provides lift, similar to how it provides force to spin the carousel. Both rely on the principle that hot air is less dense and rises.
• 🔥 Convection Ovens: Hot air circulation distributes heat evenly, using the same principle of hot air rising and cold air sinking. The convection currents ensure even cooking.
• 🌤️ Weather Systems: Large-scale convection currents drive weather patterns as warm air rises and cold air sinks. Understanding convection helps meteorologists predict weather patterns.

5️⃣ Hypothesis Evaluation

💡 Key Learnings from This Project

• ⚡ Heat energy can be converted into mechanical motion through convection
• 📐 The angle of the blades is critical for converting upward air movement into rotational motion
• 🔥 More heat sources create stronger convection currents
• 🔄 This demonstrates the principle of energy transformation (thermal to kinetic energy)
• 🔬 Controlling variables is essential for valid scientific experimentation
• 📊 Multiple trials help ensure reliable and reproducible results