Jessica Healey

Mechanical Engineering // Class of 2024

What causes bioluminescence to illuminate our waters and where we can apply it

Biology / /

Most people would turn to unnatural explanations when water and animals illuminate the night. In reality, organisms can chemically produce this light on their own. This phenomenon, called bioluminescence, occurs in organisms such as bacteria, algae, plankton, crustaceans, and even fish. But what generates the ethereal glow and why? Bioluminescence occurs when a light-emitting molecule […]

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Fictional forensics: How accurate is forensic science and its portrayal in the media?

Biology, Technology / /

No one can deny the rise of intrigue for crime television over the past decade. Maybe you binge-watched “Criminal Minds” during quarantine, saw episodes of “NCIS” over the years, or perhaps just caught a glimpse of any popular crime show. Regardless, many have a preconception of the forensics involved in these fictional investigations. The process

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Materials that mimic the lotus effect: Lotus leaves inspire self-cleaning surfaces

Biology, Technology / /

The study of preexisting designs is a common practice for guidance in problem solving. Innovators can turn to structures around them for inspiration, and what’s a more complex and functioning system than nature? In terms of hydrophobic properties, or water-repellant behavior, scientists strive to mimic the lotus effect. This effect is named after the leaves

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Fessenden’s oscillator is all the range: An early foundation of sonar

Technology / /

Despite constant navigation on its waters, many aspects of the ocean remain mysterious. Ships have been facing the ocean’s hidden surfaces and unpredictable storms for most of history. By releasing sound waves, and measuring the time it takes for them to return, Sound Navigation and Ranging (sonar) aids with travel, navigation, and detection. In the

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