Final answer:
Cosmic dust consists of various elements and particles, including bug parts, hair, pollen, and cometary fragments. Scientists collect cosmic dust to understand weather patterns and pollution. Students and teachers can participate in collecting cosmic dust by using a simple method.
Step-by-step explanation:
Every time you step outside, you are exposed to cosmic dust, which consists of bug parts, specks of hair, pollen, and tiny chunks of comets. According to experts, 6 million pounds of space dust settle on the earth's surface every year. While you may not notice it, scientists are collecting it to learn more about weather patterns and pollution. One project invites students and teachers to help collect samples of cosmic dust using a simple method.
To collect cosmic dust, a researcher sets up an inflatable swimming pool outdoors for 48 hours. The pool captures whatever has settled over time. A special type of tape is used to pick up the dust particles, which are then dissolved in water and analyzed under a microscope. The information gathered from these samples can help scientists predict insect seasons, measure meteor showers, and even detect signs of global warming.