13-Year-Old Builds 'Death Ray' Inspired by Archimedes

By: April Carson

Legends surrounding the ingenuity of the ancient Greek inventor and mathematician Archimedes have persisted for over 2,000 years. Among them is the fascinating tale of a 'death ray' capable of setting Roman ships ablaze using mirrors. Enter Brenden Sener, a 13-year-old Canadian middle schooler, who took on the challenge of bringing this ancient concept to life for a science fair project. His journey not only delves into history but also highlights the perpetual fascination with Archimedes' inventions.

Discovering Archimedes:

Brenden's interest in Archimedes sparked when he encountered the Archimedes screw in a documentary, leading him to create an earlier science fair project. Intrigued by the legendary inventor's capabilities, he decided to explore more of Archimedes' inventions, ultimately stumbling upon the infamous 'death ray.'

The Siege of Syracuse:

The historical backdrop for Archimedes' 'death ray' is the siege of Syracuse between 214 and 212 BC. According to a 12th-century historian, Joannes Zonaras, Archimedes used mirrors to concentrate sunlight, allegedly burning the entire Roman fleet. Brenden's project aimed to replicate this feat on a smaller scale, using heat lamps, mirrors, and a piece of cardboard marked with an "X."

Scaling Down the Death Ray:

Brenden meticulously designed his experiment, utilizing heating lamps to simulate the sun and concave mirrors to focus the light. An infrared thermometer measured temperature increases as he added mirrors. With a 100-watt bulb, the first mirror raised the temperature by 46 degrees Fahrenheit. Subsequent mirrors increased the temperature further, leading Brenden to believe that, on a larger scale, Archimedes' death ray might indeed have been feasible.

A History of Attempts:

Brenden is not the first to take on the challenge. Over the centuries, numerous individuals, including the "Mythbusters" TV show and an MIT professor, have attempted to recreate Archimedes' death ray, often with mixed results. The allure of unlocking this ancient mystery has persisted through the centuries, with scholars and scientists captivated by the possibilities.

Brenden Sener's ambitious science fair project provides a modern perspective on an ancient legend. While his scaled-down model may not have set anything on fire, it opens the door to further exploration and discussion. Archimedes' legacy continues to inspire curiosity and experimentation, proving that even after thousands of years, his inventions can still capture the imagination of a 13-year-old and ignite the passion for scientific inquiry. As we look back to the past, the 'death ray' project reminds us that the quest for knowledge is a timeless endeavor.

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