Practical 4 in the History in STEM practical series.
In this practical we are looking at the Viking Sunstone, the theoretical genius navigation method, making much of the Viking exploration possible. Working with Icelandic Spar (Calcite Crystal) which, through the process of birefrigence, causes light passing through it to be refracted at two separate angles. Using this, with some small effort, research has shown that the stone could be used to locate the sun, even on an overcast day, within a few degrees, allowing for the journey to continue.
More about the History in STEM practical Series
This series is designed to bring quality cross-curricula material to STEM subjects, that help students to explore and discover phenomena normally taught, while getting a glimpse into the history of its development.
In addition, a number of the practicals give the students the opportunity to play “Mythbusters”, looking at a number of different methods and having to reason why one or the other was the more likely or useful method.
From Ancient Greece to Vikings, China to the Golden age of the Muslim empire and beyond to India, the series takes a look at some of the most important STEM achievements throughout history.
There is a plan for 40 of these such practicals in this series, so, if you liked this one, consider looking at some of the others, or check out some of the bundles available.
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