Sounds from the seas enchant young physicists

A group of pupils at a Dorset school have been inspired by two Thales engineers who brought the science of sound to life by explaining how physics and maths can be used to help 'see and sense' objects under water. The pre-Summer break science ‘master class’ was part of an educational visit programme between our Templecombe site and Shaftesbury School, a mixed facility for 11 to 18 year olds.

Acoustics engineers Joanna Crompton and Hannah Rose met three science classes of Year 10 pupils to explain how the subjects they study in textbooks is actually translated into major engineering programmes that allow ships and submarines to navigate their way through the seas.

Hannah says: “It was a great experience – we regularly visit schools to explain to children that maths and physics have very real practical applications in engineering and it’s a fantastic experience to see that look of surprise and interest suddenly appear on their faces.

We talked about the science of sound – how we design sonar to tell the direction of sound, how we manage to ‘see’ underwater and how we manage to work out how big another under water object is – using the relevance and context of maths and physics to build that ‘picture’.”

The talk also included some practical sessions, including a mini-tank filled with water and a live demonstration of sound travelling through it. Joanna and Hannah also spoke of their respective journeys into engineering. Joanna studied physics at Exeter, while Hannah studied astrophysics at Edinburgh.

“These sort of visits can hopefully inspire you. For example, I was always interested in art at school until I went to the Kennedy Space Centre in the States and was privileged to talk to an astronaut. He was so approachable and inspiring about science and space, it just opened my eyes.” adds Hannah.

Judging by the written feedback forwarded from the school, the visit had a similar effect on the pupils.

One says: “I found it a fun way to learn. I now know more about sound and how it travels through waves. It has changed my attitude towards physics as it demonstrated women in the workplace.”

Another says: “I also enjoyed it as I can now see how what I learn in class can be used for a future and not just to pass an exam.”

A third pupil says: “It was very interesting and interactive - it definitely made me want to take physics and maths further.”