Insect antennae intercept vanishingly small quantities of chemical signals from the air with great efficiency. Our ability to evaluate how antennae function is hampered by our lack of knowledge about the role of physical factors such as air speed or antennal size and geometry on signal capture. That is, there is no appropriate null hypothesis available against which to compare measured antennal performance. In engineering terms, this exchange of material between the environment and an object is called mass transport. The objective of this study is to quantify the rate of pheromone interception by real antennae under different flow conditions and to compare these results with predictions from mass transport calculations. These calculations require knowledge of mass transfer coefficients, values that are specific for a given geometry, flow situation, and diffusing material. To determine these currently-unknown mass transport coefficients, physical modeling will be done using dynamic scaling methods. This biomechanical approach will allow predictions to be made for antennal performance under different flow conditions, such as when an insect flies at different speeds. This approach will also allow differentiation between the rate of physical events and neurological events. Interactive activities at the host institution include: teaching a course in Insect Biomechanics; giving guest lectures in Insect Physiology, External Insect Morphology and Insect Behavior; participating in a new course on mentoring in science entitled "Topics in Women Studies: Women in Science;" and advising undergraduate students in independent research. This project furthers VPW program objectives which are (1) to provide opportunities for women to advance their careers in engineering and in the disciplines of science supported by NSF and (2) to encourage women to pursue careers in science and engineering by providing greater visibility for women scientists and engineers employed in industry, government, and academic institutions. By encouraging the participation of women in science, it is a valuable investment in the Nation's future scientific vitality.
