Building a Tesla Coil for My High School Graduation Project

[z-component]

My school district requires that each high school senior complete what's called a "Graduation Project," in which the student makes a project of their choice that relates to their academics. There's no specific requirements about the actual project, just the completion of different components (i.e. a writing component, a presentation/speech, etc.) along with the project.

I am choosing my Physics II class to be the base my project and still have to talk to my physics teachers about what I have in mind. I thought I'd propose my idea here on good ol' PF to see what you all think.

I want to build a small, tabletop tesla coil that uses as little voltage as possible to demonstrate the nature of electricity and conductivity. The things I need to know are:

• Is this even practical for a student with one year of physics behind him?
• Is it going to be expensive?
• Is this something I can accomplish on my own with some detailed instructions and some research?

I hope I'm not coming off as impractical or unknowledgable. This is just one idea I have. Feedback?

 

[z-component]

Here's another idea I have: assemble a laser. Not from scratch, though. I could buy a tube and build the power supply. Any ideas?

 

[piercas]

I think building a Tesla coil for your high school graduation project is a great idea! It shows creativity, hands-on learning, and a strong understanding of physics principles. However, there are a few things to consider before moving forward with this project.

Firstly, while building a Tesla coil may seem like a daunting task, it is definitely achievable with the right resources and guidance. With one year of physics behind you, you should have a good foundation to understand the concepts involved. However, it may be helpful to consult with your physics teachers to ensure that your project is feasible and to get their input and guidance.

Secondly, the cost of building a Tesla coil can vary depending on the materials used. It is important to research and budget for the necessary components and tools. You may also want to consider reaching out to local businesses or organizations for donations or sponsorships to help cover the cost.

Lastly, it is definitely possible to accomplish this project on your own with detailed instructions and thorough research. There are many online resources and tutorials available that can guide you through the process. It may also be helpful to reach out to other students or experts in the field for advice and support.

Overall, I think this is a great project idea that will not only fulfill your graduation project requirements, but also allow you to further explore your interest in physics. Good luck and happy experimenting!