Department of Physics

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ANALYSIS AND TESTING OF AN IMPROVED CHARCOAL STOVE WITH HIGH THERMAL EFFICIENCY
(Busitema University, 2026-06-06) Butuma, Elisaphani
In this study, an improved charcoal stove with high thermal efficiency was designed and tested as a cooking system that utilizes charcoal as its primary fuel while minimizing heat loss and fuel consumption. The system focuses on improving energy utilization rather than eliminating fuel use, making it a cost-effective and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional charcoal stoves. The constructed improved charcoal stove comprised of a combustion chamber, insulation layer, air inlet vents, pot support, outer casing, and other locally sourced materials. The stove was designed to enhance heat retention, regulate airflow, and improve combustion efficiency.An experimental setup was developed where two charcoal stove models were tested simultaneously using equal quantities of charcoal and water. Temperature measurements were taken at regular time intervals using thermometers inserted into the cooking pots to monitor heat transfer performance. The results obtained were recorded and analyzed to evaluate the efficiency of each stove.The improved charcoal stove demonstrated better performance by achieving a higher temperature of 60°C compared to 47°C from the other stove within 30 minutes of operation. This indicates improved heat transfer, reduced heat loss, and better fuel utilization. The efficiency improvement is attributed to enhanced insulation and controlled airflow, which ensure more effective combustion of charcoal.The study concludes that improved charcoal stoves can significantly reduce fuel consumption while increasing cooking efficiency. This technology is suitable for household use, particularly in areas where access to modern energy sources is limited. It provides a practical solution for reducing energy costs, minimizing environmental impact, and improving cooking performance among households and small-scale users.
DESIGN AND DEVELOPMENT OF A PORTABLE SOLAR MOBILE CHARGER.
(Busitema University, 2026-06-06) Soita, Jonathan
The increasing dependence on mobile phones for communication, education, and business has created a growing demand for reliable charging solutions, especially in areas with limited or unreliable electricity supply. This study focused on the design and development of a simple and cost-effective battery-less solar mobile charger powered by solar energy. The system was developed using a 7 V solar panel, an LM7805 voltage regulator, capacitors, resistors, a diode, and a USB charging interface to provide a regulated output suitable for mobile phone charging. The performance of the system was evaluated under varying sunlight conditions by measuring the input voltage, output voltage, and output current at different times of the day. The results showed that the charger performance depended strongly on solar radiation intensity, with output voltage and current increasing toward midday. The maximum output voltage and current obtained were 4.89 V and 117.7 mA, respectively, recorded at 2:00 PM. Although the system successfully converted solar energy into electrical energy, the output current was lower than the charging requirements of most modern smartphones, resulting in slow charging. Nevertheless, the study demonstrated the potential of solar energy as a sustainable and environmentally friendly source of power for low-power electronic devices in off-grid areas. The study recommends the use of larger solar panels, improved voltage regulation methods, and energy storage systems to enhance charging efficiency and system reliability.
Design and construction of a mortor-based DC volatage step-up system
(Busitema university, 2026) Masawo, David
This study presents the design and construction of an electromechanical DC Voltage step-up system that converts low-voltage direct current (DC) inputs into higher output voltage using coupled vibrational and DC motors. The system operates by converting electrical energy from a low-voltage source into mechanical energy through vibrational motor, which in turn drives a DC motor functioning as a generator to produce a higher output voltage The developed prototype demonstrated the ability to increase an input voltage of approximately 3.7V to a maximum output voltage of about 20V under no-load conditions. Under load conditions (12V load), the output voltage was observed to be approximately (12.5V) indicating the effect of load resistance on system performance. The efficiency of the system was evaluated based on the ratio of output power to input power and was found to be in the range of (40%-50%) depending on operation conditions. To meet the growing demand for such applications, new power converter topologies that use the above voltage-boosting techniques, as well as some active and passive components, are continuously being proposed. The permutations and combinations of the various voltage-boosting techniques with additional components in a circuit allow for numerous new topologies and configurations, which are often confusing and difficult to follow (Forouzesh et al. 2017). Additionally, the system exhibited voltage fluctuations attributed to the nature of mechanical coupling between the vibrational motor and the DC motor. Overall, the proposed system provides a simple and cost-effective approach to voltage step-up through electromechanical energy conversion. The findings demonstrate its potential for educational applications and low-power systems, while also identifying key limitations related to efficiency and stability that can be improved in future work. Finally, broad applications of dc–dc converters are presented and summarized with comparative study of different voltage-boosting techniques (Hsieh et al. 2013) . The findings of this research provide valuable insights into energy conversion technologies and offer a practical solution for educators and developers seeking to utilize low-voltage power sources. This project lays the groundwork for future advancements in simple voltage boosting systems, promoting innovation in the fields of electronics and renewable energy applications. However, the operation of these system is affected by various factor such as unstable power supply (weak battery), (Gurgi, Abdalla, and Hassan 2023).
Design,construction and perfomance evaluation of a Non-contact AC voltage detector
(Busitema university, 2026-06-05) Mande,Emmanuel
This study presents the design and construction of a non-contact AC detector capable of identifying live conductors without physical contact. The device operates on the principle of electromagnetic induction whereby a varying electric field around an energized conductor induces a small signal in a sensing probe. The induced signal is amplified using a transistor-based circuit to activate visual and audio indicators (LED and buzzer). The detector was constructed using discrete components and tested at various distances from AC conductors within the range of 110–220 V. Experimental results showed that the device successfully detected AC voltage up to 14 cm with output voltage ranging from 0.03 V to 0.24 V from a live Ac carrying conductor demonstrating its usefulness as a low-cost safety tool for electrical maintenance.
Extraction and preparation of a low-cost functional dye sensitized solar cell.
(Busitema University, 2026) Watsena, Silva
This report explores the development of Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells (DSSCs) using natural dyes as low-cost, eco-friendly alternatives to expensive and toxic synthetic sensitizers. Various natural pigments, including anthocyanins from rosella and guinea sorrel, battalions from beetroot, and curcumin from turmeric, were extracted and analyzed. Research indicates that the extraction solvent, pH levels, and the use of dye combinations significantly influence the efficiency of the solar dye. The highest reported efficiency for a natural dye combination was 2.71% for a beetroot and turmeric mixture at an acidic
DESIGN AND EVALUATION OF PHYSIO-MECHANICAL, THERMAL, AND BIODEGRADABILITY PROPERTIES OF BIOBOXES FOR SUSTAINABLE DOMESTIC FOOD STORAGE
(BUSITEMA UNIVERSITY, 2026-06-03) MWESIGWA SIMEON
This study aimed to design and evaluated biodegradable bio-boxes using locally available materials for sustainable domestic food storage in Uganda. The research investigated physio mechanical properties, thermal performance, and biodegradability of the fabricated bio-boxes. Materials such as cassava starch, banana fibers, and paper pulp were used to produce bio-boxes. Mechanical tests showed moderate tensile strength suitable for domestic use, while thermal analysis revealed low thermal conductivity, indicating good insulation properties. Biodegradability tests demonstrated decomposition within 4–8 weeks under soil burial conditions. The study aligns with Uganda’s environmental policies, including the National Environment Act (2019), promoting sustainable alternatives to plastic packaging. The findings confirm that bio-boxes are a viable ecofriendly solution for reducing plastic waste in domestic food storage.
Analysis of the radiological content in selected floor tiles and cement brands commonly used in building construction in Tororo, Uganda.
(Busitema University, 2024) Waiswa, Salimu
In this study, cement and floor tiles that are frequently used in building construction were investigated using a NaI (TI) detector in gamma ray spectrometry to identify the gamma ray emitting radionuclides of Ra-226, Th-232, and K-40 as well as radiological parameters of radionuclide activities concentration, radium equivalent activity, absorbed gamma dose, annual effective dose, external and internal hazard indices, excess lifetime cancer risk, and annual gonadal equivalent dose. In the study, samples of cement and floor tiles from different cement and tile manufacturers were evaluated. Using the NaI (TI) detector, naturally occurring radionuclides of radium (Ra-226,), thorium (Th-232) and Potassium (K-40) were found in all the analyzed samples. The radionuclide activity concentration of Ra-226, Th-232, and K-40 in cement were in the range of 10.2± 0.7 Bqkg-1 to 86.1± 4.3 Bqkg-1, 28.9± 1.3 Bqkg-1 to 105.3±, 2.5 Bqkg-1 and 334.2± 6.4 Bqkg-1 to 508.5± 7.9 Bqkg-1, with average values of 31.2± 1.7 Bqkg-1, 61.9± 1.9 Bqkg-1 and 463.1± 7.5 Bqkg-1 respectively. Save for Ra-226 whose average activity concentration was less than 40 Bqkg-1 the global average value, the activity concentrations of Th-232 and K-40 recorded were higher than 35 Bqkg-1 and 400 Bqkg-1, the global recommended dose limits respectively. The average value of the absorbed dose rate, annual effective dose, radium equivalent activity, external and internal indices in the analyzed cement samples were 71.1± 2.2 nGyhr-1, 0.349± 0.011 mSvy-1, 155.3± 5.1 Bqkg-1, 0.42 and 0.50 below the maximum permissive dose limit of 84 nGyhr-1, 1.0 mSvy-1, 370 Bqkg-1 and 1(unity) respectively. The recorded average values of the excess life time cancer risk and annual gonadal equivalent dose were and 0.50 mSvy-1 which are above the recommended dose limit of and 0.3mSvy-1 respectively. In the floor tile samples, the concentration of radionuclide activity for Ra-226, Th-232, and K-40 ranged from 13.2± 0.8 Bqkg-1 to 49.0± 2.4 Bqkg-1, 38.7± 1.3 Bqkg-1 to 149.5± 3.7 Bqkg-1, and 192.9± 2.6 Bqkg-1 to 526.7± 8.0 Bqkg-1, with average values of 30.8± 1.4 Bqkg-1, 95.8± 2.3 Bqkg-1, and 388.6± 6.2 Bqkg-1, respectively. Th-232 was found to have average activity concentration above the global recommended dose limits of 35 Bqkg-1, with the exception of Ra226 and K-40, whose average activity concentrations were less than the global average value of 40 Bqkg-1 and 400 Bqkg-1, respectively. In the examined floor tile samples, the average values of the absorbed dose rate, annual effective dose, radium equivalent activity, external and internal indices were 88.3± 2.3 nGyh-1, 0.43± 0.011 mSvy-1, 197.7± 5.2 Bqkg-1, 0.534, and 0.458, respectively, which are below the maximum permissive dose limit of 84 nGyhr-1, 370 Bqkg-1 and 1(unity). The average reported values of the excess life-time cancer risk and the annual gonadal equivalent dose were 1.52x10-3 and 0.619 mSvy-1, respectively beyond the suggested dosage limit of 0.29x10-3 and 0.3 mSvy-1. Due to some samples showing higher activity concentrations than the global average, further studies are recommended to confirm these findings and assess additional radiological parameters like alpha and gamma indices. Future research should include more types of building materials. High radionuclide activity in some samples poses significant health risks, such as increased cancer rates, radiation sickness, genetic damage, respiratory problems, reproductive issues, and cardiovascular disease, particularly for those living in buildings made with such materials.
Optimizing density, water absorption and compressive strength of paving blocks molded from plastic waste to address plastic pollution
(Busitema University, 2024) Ronald, Henry Kibiina
The production and usage of plastics are rapidly increasing in our daily lives, leading to significant disposal challenges, including landfill overflow, environmental pollution, microplastic formation, emissions from incineration, and increased economic costs associated with waste management. This study, therefore, aims to mitigate these effects by investigating the optimization of the physical properties of paving blocks molded using plastic waste as a binding material, thus offering a sustainable solution for plastic disposal through construction. Two types of waste plastic materials were used: Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) and Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC). Additionally, two sand particle sizes, 0.5 mm and 1.2 mm, were selected to comprehensively evaluate their impact on the physical properties of the paving blocks and to identify the optimal mixture for enhanced performance. These particle sizes represent a range of fine and coarse sand, allowing for a thorough investigation of how varying sizes influence the response variables. PET plastic was collected from disposal points, dustbins, and surroundings in Tororo municipality while PVC from construction sites still in Tororo municipality, Eastern Uganda, while the sand was sourced from a construction site at Tororo Girls’ School in Tororo municipality. The molten waste plastic and sand were mixed in different proportions based on Central Composite Design (CCD), a statistical method within Response Surface Methodology (RSM) that systematically explores multiple factors affecting response variables, ensuring the optimal combination for the desired physical properties. RSM was employed to analyze the experimental data and model the relationships between the variables, enabling the identification of optimal conditions for achieving the desired physical properties, (density, water absorption, and compressive strength) of the paving blocks. Models were developed to fit the experimental results, with all density models being successful. The water absorption model for PET was successful for both sand particle sizes, the water absorption model for PET was successful for both sand particle sizes; in contrast, no model could be established for PVC molded pavers, as absorption values consistently registered at 0.000 across all composition ratios. This outcome indicates that the hydrophobic nature of PVC not only contributes to its resistance to water absorption but also facilitates effective bonding of sand particles, without pore spaces formation. Only the combination of PET with a sand particle size of 1.2 mm produced a successful model for compressive strength, while other combinations did not yield satisfactory results. This combination exhibited successful models for all evaluated responses, highlighting its potential as the optimal combination for molding the desired paving blocks. Using the Response Surface Methodology (RSM), the optimal combination for molding the paving blocks was determined to be 148.28 g of sand and 50.0 g of PET plastic, which meets the parameters of low density, low water absorption, and high compressive strength. The results imply that utilizing plastic waste as a binding material in paving blocks not only offers a sustainable solution for reducing plastic waste but also producing high performance pavers, thereby addressing the critical issue of plastic pollution while creating durable paving blocks.
Weighted Mean Temperature Models for estimating Global Navigation satellite System Precipitable Water Vapor over East Africa
(Busitema University, 2024) Peter, Mbayo
The weighted mean temperature (Tm) is an important parameter in deriving accurate and reliable Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) Precipitable Water Vapor (PWV) values especially in tropical regions. However, the accuracy of GNSS - PWV in the East African region is limited by the availability of precise and reliable meteorological data for computing accurate Tm values. To address this limitation, this study developed site-specific regional Tm models for East Africa (E.A) using radiosonde and Ozonesonde profiles from 1971 to 2019. The models were validated using radiosonde profiles from two stations 63741 (Dagoretti) and 63894 (Dares-salaam) based on Root Mean Square Error (RMSE) and Mean Bias Error (MBE) values of Tm. The Tm values from the established models were compared with the two global (Bevis and Yao) and one Tropical regional (Raju) Tm models in order to assess their performance. At station 63741, the RMSE of the E.A model, the site-specific Tm model, the Bevis, Yao, and Raju Tm models are 2.01 K, 1.76 K, 1.79 K, 2.54 K, 2.74 K, and 2.47 K, respectively. At station 63894, the RMSE of the E.A model, the site-specific Tm model, the Bevis, Yao, and Raju Tm models are 1.66 K, 1.63 K, 1.70 K, 2.52 K and 2.64 K, respectively. At both stations, the site-specific Tm models have higher accuracy followed by the E.A model as compared to Raju Tm model and the two global T of Tm models (Bevis and Yao). The study further evaluated the accuracy models in the retrieval of PWV by computing PWV values at three GNSS sites (ARSH, DODM, and RCMN). The GNSS - PWV values computed from different Tm models were compared with PWV values derived using Tm from ERA5 reanalysis dataset from 2013 to 2020. The use of GNSS-PWV from ERA5-Tm as the reference values was due to the limited Tm values from Radiosonde during the same periods of available GNSS data required for PWV estimation. In terms of RMSpwv, the site-specific models exhibit values ranging from 0.107 mm to 0.11 mm, with a mean value of 0.109 mm, which is the lowest among the five models. This is followed by, the E.A regional model with mean value of 0.127 mm, Yao Tm with a mean value of 0.129 mm, Bevis with a mean value of 0.130 mm, and Raju with a mean value of 0.148 mm. The results show that the E.A regional Tm model and site-specific models perform better than the global and other tropical regional Tm models. Therefore, the established Tm models are the preferred choices for estimating for GNSS - PWV retrieval in the East African region. Overall, the study provides improved Tm models for accurate estimation of GNSS - PWV in the East African region, which could improve weather and climate forecasts.
Characterization of the multipath environment of the global navigation satellite system receivers over Uganda.
(Busitema University, 2024) Bab, Irekere Hellen
Errors in the data tracked by the Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) receiver consist of errors from the satellites, errors from the propagation medium such as the ionosphere and multiple signal paths surrounding it, known as the multipath errors. Some efforts to curb multipath were made such as setting a fixed elevation cutoff for the receivers and placement of receivers in an open environment. However, this does not cater for the different heights of the obstacles in the receiver environment implying that a fixed cutoff elevation cannot be set for such environment. In addition, placement of receivers in an open environment may not be possible most especially in cities where there are many buildings and yet data from such places is also needed for ionospheric studies. Therefore, in this study the possibility of a variable elevation cutoff for each receiver environment in Uganda was investigated. Potential sources of multipath were first identified for the different receivers in Uganda. The results show that there exists a stationary object at an azimuth of 00-300, 700-1100, 2400-3000 and 3300-3500 from Mbarara-GPS receiver. This object can block satellite signals as far as 2000 elevation. Similarly for the case of the receiver at Entebbe, stationary objects exist at an azimuth of 00-200 and 2200 3300. The stationary structures can obstruct satellite signals at an elevation of 00-200. Basing on the variation of elevation against azimuth, obstacles at Mbarara-SCINDA exist at azimuth angles of 00-200 and 3400-3600. For this receiver, the satellite paths were not visible at elevation angles of 100 -200. The receiver at Makerere has stationary obstacles at azimuth angles of 00-200 and 3400-3600, as observed from the variation of elevation against azimuth for this receiver. The satellite signals were obstructed at elevation angles of 100-200. Likewise, the receiver at Mt. Baker has obstacles at 00-1400 azimuth. At elevation angles of 00-200, the satellite signals were obstructed. Amplitude scintillation together with the S4proxy were used to identify multipath events in space and time. Before using the S4proxy, it was validated against amplitude scintillation from collocated receivers. The results show that majority of the scintillation events occurred 0 between 18:00 Universal Time (UT) and 22:00 UT during the selected days of the year. These scintillations occurred during post sunset because they were initiated by the Rayleigh Taylor Instability (RTI) mechanism. This mechanism occurs when light plasma supports dense plasma. The mechanism occurs in the F layer of the ionosphere. It is during post sunset that the bottom side of the F layer contains light plasma while the topside of the F layer contains denser plasma. This is because during that time, the ionosphere is high enough to overcome recombination of ions and electrons, thus making the topside F layer denser than the bottom side. When light plasma supports dense plasma, it becomes unstable, which makes the dense plasma to sink into it, while the light plasma to drift upwards. This creates a fluctuation in the electron density in the ionosphere, which causes ionospheric scintillations. The days considered in this study were selected on the basis that they had high scintillation occurrence for both amplitude scintillation and the S4proxy. The seasonal pattern reveals higher likelihood of occurrence of both amplitude scintillation and the proxy in the equinox months. The S4proxy highly correlate with the amplitude scintillation, with a correlation coefficient ranging between 0.8323 and 0.9312. The S4proxy was then used to characterize the environment of the receivers where scintillation monitors were not available. Multipath events were identified on the different satellite links. These events varied from one receiver to another, suggesting differences in the characteristics of the environment of the various receivers. The scintillation events around MBAR receiver were observed by satellite number 22 and took place between 5:00 UT and 6:00 UT on the DOY; 002, 003, 004, 005 and 006. Satellite number 22 was selected because it was in view for all the five consecutive days that were selected for the above receiver. The PRN 18 observed scintillation events near MAK occurring between 2:00 UT and 3:00 UT, spanning from Day of Year 041 to 045. Between Days of Year 003 and 007, PRN 25 detected scintillation events near EBBE from 2:00 UT to 4:00 UT. Similarly, PRN 18 observed scintillation events near BAKC on days 017 through 021 of the year. Satellite number 31 detected scintillation events near the MBA receiver from DOY 289 to 293 between 5:00 and 10:00 UT. These scintillations were observed by only one satellite at each station simply because that particular satellite was in view for all the five consecutive days that were selected for the scintillation occurrence. Amplitude scintillation was then mapped on an azimuth- elevation space to identify elevation threshold for each azimuth. The azimuth-elevation threshold values were then modeled using splines. The model was then used to determine the varying elevation threshold for each receiver. Comparing the varying elevation threshold with the fixed elevation threshold, more data was obtained using the varying elevation threshold and the quantity of that data varied from one receiver to another.
Analyzing absorption rate of disposable baby diapers of different brands.
(Busitema university, 2026) Kibalatsi, Fred
Disposable baby diapers are complex products consisting of multiple layers of materials, most of which are not in direct contact with the skin. Disposable baby diapers are widely used in many parts of developed and developing countries. It is estimated that 90% to 95% of diapers used are disposable. Today’s disposable baby diapers are of high performance and well evaluated products purposefully designed to keep baby’s skin dry. This is possible due to variety of specialized polymer materials including cellulose, polypropylene, polyester and polyethylene arranged in different layers that are used to provide optimal absorption of urine thereby minimizing skin exposure. However, superabsorbent polymer differs in different brands, so a diaper absorption assessment is recommended to judge its quality. For that reason, five brands of diapers that is soft care, cucttic, pampers, Mami love and baby love were taken to physics laboratory to analyze their liquid absorption. Each brand was tested in triplicate to ensure reliability. The methodology allowed for comprehensive comparison of absorption rates among the brands and by comparative study, the average absorption rate was in the range of 1100 wt% to 1593 wt% in saline solution. In my study, pamper brand had the highest absorption rate of 1593 wt% while baby love had the lowest absorption rate of 1100 wt% which is lower than the recommended value of absorption rate according to (Bachra et al., 2020). I therefore, recommend that further research should be conducted on the scope of analyzing the absorption rate of disposable baby diapers of different brands.
Designing a lighting system that is controlled by a remote and uses a low voltage using locally available materials
(Busitema University, 2026) Onyango, Samuel
The aim of this study was to design a lighting system that is controlled by a remote and uses a low voltage as low as 5 Volts. In this study, a lighting system that is controlled by a remote was designed using a sensor, resistors, USB socket, remote and LED lamp beads. The band width of the lighting system was measured and found to decrease with increase in distance. These results suggest that the remote would be effective if it is used at a nearby distance with no obstacle.
Fabrication And Characterization Of Pavers Made From Varying Molecular Weight Plastic Waste
(Busitema University, 2024) Napooli Micheal
Plastic waste poses a significant environmental challenge. This study aimed to convert this waste into value-added products by fabricating pavers from varying molecular weight plastic waste at Nagongera town council. Specific objectives included determining and comparing the compressive strength of pavers made from low and high molecular weight plastic and sand, as well as determining the water absorption rate of the prepared paver samples. The results indicated that the pavers made from HMW plastics were lighter with 950g compared to those made from LMW plastics with 1293g. the adopted sand-cement mixes were cured from 7 days in water at normal temperature and tested for water absorption and compressive strength. Furthermore, the water absorption rate of the pavers was found to be that LMW plastic waste gives a high-water absorption rate than HNW plastic waste. These findings suggest that pavers fabricated from plastic waste have the potential to be a viable alternative to conventional pavers, contributing to waste management and sustainable development. To improve the production process and investigate additional paver features, more research is advised.
Construction And Design Of A Paper Cutter
(Busitema University, 2024) Nandala, Samson
The primary aim of this project was to construct a paper cutter using a DC motor and double edged blade. This research report presents design, construct, and testing of a paper cutter powerd by a DC motor and featuring a double edged blade. The device aims to provide an efficient , safe and user friendly solution for cutting paperin various settings including offices, schools and print shops. The paper cutter’ s design involved a thorough analysis of existing paper cutting technologies, identification of design requirements and selection of appropriate materials and components. The device design consists of a DC motor , double edged blade and control system. The DC motor provides the necessary torque and speed for cutting paper
Fabrication And Characterisation Of Briquettes Made From Corn Stovers And Ground Nut Husks
(Busitema University, 2024) Nabutsale Esther
This study involved the fabrication and characterization of briquettes from corn stovers and ground nut husks. It involved production of uncarbonized briquettes from agricultural biomass materials such as corn stovers and ground nut husks as alternative fuel for cooking. The study was based in Nagongera town council due to availability of the desired raw materials especially during the peak seasons of harvesting. This does not only substitute the conventional wood fuels for cooking but also provides a sustainable waste management practice that reduces the adverse effects that arise from these biomass wastes. Briquettes were produced using cassava starch binder and molded manually using a hand then placed under the sun to dry. Results indicated that briquettes from corn stovers had least drop strength and bulk density than those of ground nut husks. Generally, cassava starch binder imparted higher drop strength due to its good binding properties and bonding. Results for boiling times show that ground nut husks had the highest boiling time of about 12.3 minutes. Boiling time indicates the time taken for briquettes to boil a known amount of water. The briquettes with low boiling times are desirable for domestic cooking purposes.
Investigating The Impact Of Geomagnetic Storms On Zenith Total Delay
(Busitema University, 2024) Mulabbi Erukamu
Geomagnetic storms pose a significant threat to modern communication systems and navigation technologies. They cause disturbances in the earth’s magnetic fields, ionosphere, and troposphere, leading to variation in zenith total delay (ZTD), which can result into position and navigation errors. The ZTD is a critical parameter affecting Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) and radio communication networks. This study investigated the impact of geomagnetic storms on zenith total delay ZTD); the research was structured around three primary objectives, That’s; identifying geomagnetic storms, determining the diurnal variation of ZTD, and analyzing ZTD variations during geomagnetic storm events. To identify geomagnetic storms, the study utilized data for the Distance storm time (Dst) index, which measures geomagnetic activity. In this study, three intense storms that occurred on March 18th, 2015, June 23rd, 2015, and December 20, 2015 were identified with Dst index values of −234nT, −198nT, and −166nT, respectively. The results of this study show a distinct diurnal pattern, with ZTD values peaking in the afternoon and reaching their lowest levels during the early morning hours, with peak values of around 2.5 metres in the magnetic crest regions and with peak values of 1.8 metres in the magnetic equator regions. To assess the impact of geomagnetic storms on ZTD, the ZTD measurements during the identified storm dates were compared with the diurnal variation. The analysis of this research show that during the storms, ZTD varied up to 2.9 metres in the magnetic crest regions and up to 1.9 metres in the magnetic equator regions, with maximum deviations from quiet-day values of 0.1meter, that’s ZTD increased by approximately 10% during storm periods, implying a disruption in the regular diurnal cycle. These deviations are attributed to ionospheric perturbations caused by enhanced geomagnetic activity, which increases the electron content in the ionosphere and consequently affects the delay of GPS signals. These findings reveal that the intensity and duration of the storms increase the magnitude and duration of ZTD variations. These findings have important implications for improving the accuracy and reliability of satellite-based applications during space weather events. Understanding these impacts is crucial for improving the reliability of communication and navigation systems during space weather events. Further research is recommended to develop predictive models that can mitigate the adverse effects of geomagnetic storms on ZTD and communication systems. Key words: geomagnetic storms, zenith total delay, GNSS, communication systems, ionosphere, troposphere, space weather.
Invesitigation Of Sound Propagation Through Various Materials.
(Busitema University, 2024) Mugombesha Ibra
The propagation of sound waves through various materials is a fundamental aspect of acoustics, impacting numerous fields from architectural design to material engineering. This study explores the mechanisms by which sound waves travel through different media. The research focuses on how material properties such as density and porosity influence sound absorption, reflection and transmission. Experimental methods are employed to measure and simulate sound propagation, providing insights into the acoustic behavior of materials. The findings reveal that material density and structure significantly affect sound wave behavior, with denser materials generally slowing down propagation. The results contribute to the development of advanced materials with tailored acoustic properties for specific applications, offering potential improvements in noise reduction and sound quality in various environments. This abstract encapsulates the essence of the research highlighting its significance and potential application of its findings.
Reasons For Low Girl Child Enrollment In Advanced Physics In Secondary Schools Of Pallisa Town Council In Pallisa District
(Busitema University, 2024) Mpyangu Benard
This study investigated the reasons girls enroll in Advanced Physics at lower rates than boys in secondary schools of Pallisa Town Council. The research was conducted using responses of 300 science advanced level students, including 176 females and 124 males students. Results were analyzed using independent samples tests and the iterative process. The data suggests five key differences between girls and boys. Girls perceive physics as less interesting, have lower physics self-efficacy, perceive physics as hard, less fun, and less applicable. One key recommendation derived from the survey is that parents, teachers, and counselors need to do a better job showing girls the importance of physics. Keywords: Females students and advanced physics and low enrollment.
Effects Of Availability And Utilization Of Physics Laboratory Equipment On Students’ Academic Achievement In Secondary Schools Of Kapchorwa District.
(Busitema University, 2023) Cherop, Daisy Mwanga
The study conducted in Kapchorwa district, Eastern Uganda, assessed the availability and utilization of Physics Laboratory Equipment (PLE) in secondary schools. The research involved 70 students and 30 Physics teachers from 10 out of 16 schools, selected randomly and purposively respectively. Data was gathered through a questionnaire, an equipment checklist, and a Physics Achievement Test (PAT). The results indicated that the effective use of PLE significantly improves Physics teaching. Private schools, which had a good amount of PLE and utilization, scored well in achievement tests. However, public schools with the least equipment and utilization had the lowest scores. The study concluded that a well-equipped science laboratory is essential for high-quality Physics education in Kapchorwa secondary schools.
Trends Of Surface Air Temperature And Precipitation Over Tororo-Uganda
(Busitema University, 2024) Chebet Difas
Surface air temperature (SAT) and precipitation are important variables, the coupling of which is crucial in understanding the variation in the Earth’s climate under the effects of global warming. It is known that these two variables vary differently overtime in different regions of the world. This research is aimed at determining the diurnal and seasonal trend of surface air temperature and precipitation, and also the correlation that exists between the two climatic variables. Climate data from the meteorological station in Tororo were collected and the data set consisted of average values of surface air temperature and precipitation for two years, 2017 and 2018. The results show that the surface air temperature has a clear diurnal trend with a maximum at 29.3 C and a minimum at 17.1 C. similarly the precipitation over Tororo has a diurnal pattern characterized by a maximum at 3.6mm and a minimum at 0.02mm. The seasonal pattern reveals that Tororo has two seasons, the dry season which stretches from around November to March while the wet season extends from April to around October. With focus on 2018, the correlation between surface air temperature and precipitation was calculated using the spearman’s rank correlation method with the help of the JASP software. A strong negative correlation between the two variables was obtained.

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