EDUCATIONAL TRIP – CSIR-CSIO, SECTOR 30, CHANDIGARH
The Science Department at Vivek High School organised a field visit for science students of Classes XI and XII to the ‘Council of Scientific and Industrial Research-Central Scientific Instruments Organization’(CSIR-CSIO) in Sector 32, Chandigarh on 11 August 2023. The visit included understanding of the various science concepts that drive the modern world. We got a chance to get a glimpse of the innovations done at CSIR-CSIO and the ongoing research projects.
Upon arrival, the students were divided into groups by the volunteers at CSIO and were taken to the various research labs within the institution. In groups, students visited the computer research centre which was being utilized for machine learning and cloud computing-related projects. Their current project aimed at the welfare of the cattle farming industry by developing software and hardware solutions for efficient livestock handling.
Our second destination was the chemistry lab where we got a chance to understand an invention by the scientists of CSIR-CSIO called the ‘Precision Iodine Value Analysis’ Machine. It aims to create an efficient and effective method of testing the purity of oils. It could perform the analysis on a sample within 30 seconds. We visited an ongoing research project about the use of Reverse Osmosis in water purification. We contemplated the feasibility of Reverse Osmosis as a household utility, which ignited a lot of debate. Finally, we witnessed a Photoluminescence Spectrophotometer that measures light intensity as a function of wavelength and is used to measure the concentration of a compound.
In the biomedical engineering lab, we observed a device developed with the help of a 3D printer, to help doctors diagnose the inside of the patient’s heart using a jockey whilst sitting comfortably in their office, away from harmful radiations. It was followed by an enlightening presentation on seizures and how we all must become increasingly aware of them. It was interesting to understand what seizures truly are, what caused them and why they were so common among adolescents. It was truly an eye-opener.
Chemistry lovers were ecstatic to visit the Nanotech lab where students gathered information about the extraction of chemicals and their further use. The students then feasted on the knowledge and information given by the Food Production Lab, where they learnt about a device called “iodine checker” to determine the quality and purity of fats and oils efficiently and quickly. The students also got the opportunity to view a simulation of these biomolecules.
The students were then served with refreshments which marked the end of the visit. The visit was very informative and channeled the inner inquisitiveness of students to explore scientific fields. The research facility was completely secured and dedicated to providing the best environment to the finest scientific minds in the nation. The visit was unique and one of a kind that left an indelible mark on our academic journey.
Yuvraj Singh Rana 12A
Japneet Chandoak 12A
Shaurya Jindal 12A