Short Wave This Teen Scientist Is TIME's First-Ever 'Kid Of The Year'
Jan 11, 2021
Fifteen-year-old Gitanjali Rao, TIME Magazine's first-ever 'Kid Of The Year', shares her inspiring journey from doubting her place in science to becoming an inventor. She discusses her groundbreaking device that detects lead in drinking water, driven by her personal connection to the Flint water crisis. Gitanjali emphasizes the role of youth in innovation and offers advice to fellow budding scientists about perseverance and passion in STEM. She also hints at her upcoming book aimed at inspiring young innovators.
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Overcoming Societal Expectations
- Gitanjali Rao initially didn't see herself as a scientist due to societal expectations.
- She challenged those notions, embracing her passion for science and using it for positive change.
Inspiration for Lead Detection Device
- Gitanjali Rao was appalled by the Flint, Michigan water crisis, where kids drank lead-contaminated water.
- This inspired her to create a device to detect lead, ensuring safe drinking water access.
Science Behind Lead Detection
- Gitanjali Rao's device uses carbon nanotube sensor technology to detect lead in water.
- Lead in the water binds to chloride ions, creating "speed bumps" that slow electron flow, indicating lead presence.
