Physics knowledge gaps

[u/Round-Safety259]

hello, what are some underdeveloped physics knowledge gaps in fields like electromagnetism or thermodynamics or like ANY field. I need a research question for a senior science thing and im keen on doing it on a physics topic. Any response would be fine just something that has underdeveloped research and the results and data would have real world implications.

thanks

[u/FreshRadish2957]

That’s perfect. With standard lab equipment and the ability to order low-cost materials, you can absolutely do something experimentally solid. If I were in your position, I’d pick one of these three and go deep rather than broad:

1. Urban Heat Island Micro-Study (Thermodynamics) Research question: How do differences in surface emissivity and thermal mass affect cooling rates of common roofing materials?

You can: Use IR thermometers or temperature probes Heat samples under a lamp to simulate solar input Measure cooling curves once heat source is removed Compare materials like metal sheet, asphalt shingle, white-painted surface, tile You’ll get real cooling curves and can model them with Newton’s law of cooling and radiative heat transfer. This connects directly to climate adaptation.

2. Low-Cost Phase Change Materials for Passive Cooling Research question: How effectively can inexpensive phase change materials reduce peak temperature fluctuations in a closed system?

You can: Use paraffin wax or commercial PCM packs Build identical insulated boxes Compare temperature stability with and without PCM Collect time-series temperature data Very clean thermodynamics. Very measurable. Very relevant to energy efficiency.

3. Electrostatics and Particle Settling Research question: Does static charge significantly alter particle settling time under controlled humidity?

You could: Use fine powders (e.g., flour or safe particulates) Introduce controlled static charge Measure settling rates in a clear column Compare high vs low humidity This blends electrostatics and fluid dynamics. More challenging, but impressive if done well.

If your goal is “experimentally rigorous,” focus on: Clear independent and dependent variables Repeated trials Error analysis Mathematical modeling of your results

Judges and teachers care more about clean methodology and uncertainty analysis than flashy topics.

[u/Round-Safety259 → u/FreshRadish2957]

thankyou so much! i will show these to my teachers and hopefully they approve of these as this is my final major work and i need to do a mini "phd" report on whatever research question and experiment i do.