OLUTION: Physics Term Paper Ideas for Mechanical Engineering Majors

[out2thow]

Hey guys,

I have to write a term paper over the summer long semester in a University Physics class. I'm completely overwhelmed with topics, and have no clue of what might be too general of a topic as this is my first physics class ever!

Of course, we have to use library databases and such to cite, but some suggestions for a topic would be helpful to synthesize an idea for what direction to go.

Mechanical Engineering is my major, so anything on an engineering topic would be wonderful.

Thanks!
S

 

[lewando]

Your question is often posed. The stock answer is: What interests you? What kinds of things sparked your interest in ME in the first place? If you pursue those interests and provide your professor with an exploration of the state of the art of subject X, you will do fine.

 

[out2thow]

machining interests me, and I was thinking something like influences of cutter deflection during metal cutting, or the effect during high speed machining.

But I felt there may not be much to cite from. I have done some research in the databases and came up emptyhanded.

Thus, I am open to suggestions to help spark my mind into something that may be more accessable and documented well enough to get some good citations.

Thanks
S

 

[lewando]

Sounds like the constraint to use your library database is not helpful. High speed machining is a rich topic, if you ask Mr. Google. Ask your professor if you can have additional degrees of freedom to pursue this topic. If negative result, then suck it up and spend a few hours surveying the available research material until you find a topic that is well supported. Kind of a reverse-lookup method. I wouldn't be happy about it either, but you can at least finish the assignment.

 

[rwisz]

incerely,

I understand the challenge of finding a suitable topic for a term paper in a new subject area. I suggest starting by considering your personal interests within mechanical engineering. Are there any particular concepts or applications that you find intriguing? This can be a great starting point for choosing a topic.

Another approach is to look at current research and advancements in mechanical engineering. This can provide inspiration for potential paper topics and also give you the opportunity to contribute to the field by discussing a cutting-edge topic.

Some potential ideas for your term paper could include exploring the principles of fluid mechanics and how they apply to mechanical engineering, discussing the use of renewable energy sources in designing mechanical systems, or examining the role of materials science in developing more efficient and durable mechanical components.

Additionally, you could consider the impact of automation and robotics in the field of mechanical engineering, or dive into the world of nanotechnology and its applications in this field.

Whatever topic you choose, make sure to thoroughly research and understand the concepts and theories behind it. This will not only make for a more comprehensive and well-written paper, but it will also deepen your understanding of the subject matter.

Best of luck with your paper and your studies in mechanical engineering!