Theories put to test at middle school's science fair

Alana Essig used egg shells to produce geodes with the crystals created by using salt, borax and alum powder. Essig's research showed the borax produced heavier crystals, but the crystals made from alum were notably larger.

Event culminates weeks of learning for local students, combined with various hands-on experiments

Scientific theories were put to the test as students at Hacker Middle School presented a myriad of research projects during a science fair on Thursday.

Parents and students packed into the school gymnasium and cafeteria as the fifth and sixth graders discussed the projects while answering questions on what they learned.

Carter Zenner demonstrates an electromagnetic train he created using two magnets, a washer and a small battery. A copper coil allows the electrical current to propel the homemade device the fifth grader created.

For the full story, pick up a copy of the Mountain Home News or click on this link to subscribe to the newspaper's online edition.

Daniel Dunda allows his fellow students to try out the "vortex cannon" he created, which uses compressed air to knock down the Styrofoam cups he set as targets.