Is a Theoretical Comparison Suitable for an IB Extended Essay in Physics?

[Moss Pauly]

Firstly I'm not entirely sure as to where this belongs on this sight, but I figured that it was related to coursework.

It's coming up to that time were I have to do an extended essay on an area of interested. For those of you who don't know an extended essay is it's an essay required by the International Baccalaureate in order to pass. It has to be 4000 words or less. I'm hoping to do one on Physics as I thoroughly enjoy it.

My first thoughts where to do something on Ocean Gravity waves and the influences on them as I'm an avid surfer. Though this proved impractical to do experiments on as it would require me building a wave tank at least 20m long to reduce scaling effects.

My father suggested maybe something on String theory, relativity and quantum theory. I know that there would be certain issues involved in this such as doing something specific enough as to go to an appropriately deep level in under 4000 words. At present I can't remember the Research question i thought of last night I will post it up later today.

The main question I was wanting to ask to you guys, specifically those with experience in the IB was "Is it appropriate to do a Extended Essay based primarily on theories and a comparison of them?" This would include a detailed analysis on the implication of such theories and there problems.

Moss Pauly,

 

[theJorge551]

I'd be thoroughly interested in the answer to this question...I'm taking IB Physics HL at the beginning of the next school year and I hope to write my extended essay regarding relativity or quantum mechanics, but I have no idea if I'd have to extrapolate on one or the other (I've already taken another advanced physics class), but it seems like (based on the TOK at the end of the books) an analytical comparison of two or more theories would be enough to suffice for the essay...Let me know if you get any insight though!

 

[Moss Pauly]

http://georgetowndistricthigh school.com/ibsite/pdf/current/Extended Essay/Science_EE_Guide.pdf

This guide suggests as far as I can tell that you must present a new idea.
When you say your taking IB physics AHL do you mean you've started Physics this year as in end of year exams next year? or You haven't started the IB Diploma yet?
I will keep you informed with what I find out.

 

[theJorge551]

I finished AP Physics B (a non-IB algebra-based intro physics course) early, as a sophomore last year, and it basically goes through a slightly (very, very slightly) less rigorous curriculum than the curriculum for IB Physics HL. The concepts in both are the same, aside from the Options at the end, and I'll be starting the next school year as a junior working on my IB Diploma. My main concern is that if the Extended Essay requires one to put forth a new concept, problem is that the class itself doesn't require students to use a high enough level of math to validate or even come close to ratifying a "new" concept in physics, so it would be completely conceptual, which is the basis for a pretty weak claim, at least scientifically (I say this with respect to theoretical physics, the branch that most grasps my interest and the only one I can foresee myself writing about on an in-depth level).

Edit: I can also use the knowledge and insight I gather here to start formulating the hypothesis for my EE when I actually take the course, considering my prior knowledge... :D

 

[paranormal]

PhD

I can understand your interest in pursuing an extended essay in the field of physics. It is a great opportunity for you to dive deeper into a specific topic and gain a better understanding of it. I would like to offer some advice on your proposed topic and research question.

Firstly, I would suggest that you choose a topic that you are truly passionate about and have a strong understanding of. This will make the research process much more enjoyable and fruitful. It is also important to choose a topic that is feasible and can be completed within the word limit.

Regarding your proposed topic on Ocean Gravity waves, I understand your enthusiasm as a surfer, but as you have mentioned, it may be difficult to conduct experiments on this topic. I would suggest exploring other areas of physics that interest you and are more practical to research.

As for your father's suggestion on String theory, relativity, and quantum theory, it is a broad and complex topic. It would be challenging to cover all three theories in-depth within the word limit. I would recommend narrowing down your focus to one specific theory or aspect of these theories.

In terms of your research question, it is important to have a clear and specific question that you are trying to answer. This will guide your research and ensure that your essay stays within the word limit. I would suggest discussing your potential research question with your supervisor or a physics teacher to get their input and guidance.

In conclusion, it is appropriate to do an extended essay based on theories and a comparison of them, as long as you have a clear and specific research question and a feasible topic. I wish you all the best in your extended essay and hope it is a rewarding experience for you.