62nd Annual STS (2002-2003)
Finalists
Naveen Neil Sinha

NEW MEXICO
Naveen Neil Sinha, 17, of Los Alamos, developed a novel approach for studying the evolution of air bubbles in liquids for his Intel Science Talent Search project in physics. Naveen combined passive listening and ultrasonic Doppler measurements to study bubble formation and growth, detachment and resonance, rise to terminal velocity and size. All aspects of bubble behavior are affected by the properties of the liquid, such as surface tension, density and viscosity. Current acoustic and optical methods of studying bubbles can only examine one or two of these aspects. Naveen believes his technique will support development of inexpensive liquid characterization sensors for use in quality and process control in a variety of industries. Naveen, who has perfect SAT scores, attends Los Alamos High School where he was a member of the Science Olympiad team and debate team. In 2002, he received the Intel Foundation Young Scientist Award and attended the Nobel ceremony in Stockholm. A member of the Acoustical Society of America, Naveen holds a patent on a process using ultrasound to detect materials on metal surfaces. The son of Drs. Dipen and Barbara Sinha, he plans a research career in applied physics.