Innovative Minds: Anika Pallapothu

Harker Middle School | 8th grade | 13 years old

Predict using AI

About the Idea

Anika developed a system to Predict using AI.

Why did you enter the 3M Young Scientist Challenge?

I entered the Young Scientist Challenge because it is an opportunity for middle schoolers, such as myself, to show their projects to the world. Furthermore, this challenge motivates me to continue adding on to my Diabetic Retinopathy project and my thirst to learn about Artificial Intelligence even more deeply. Additionally, this competition opens a door of endless possibilities in the world of STEM.

What is your favorite invention of the last 100 years, and why?

In my opinion, the greatest invention so far is the Solar Photovoltaic cell. The first solar cell was invented in 1883 by Charles Fritts, a New Yorker, coating selenium with a small layer of gold. From that time on, multiple scientists across the globe started researching solar cells. They used different types of cost-efficient materials and processes, which led to the improvement of the cells. The solar photovoltaic cell significantly impacted people’s lives and society as a whole. A few critical applications with solar cells include the Solar Electric Power Generators, Solar-powered water purification plants, and many more. This solar generation holds the key to a cleaner environment and energy because greenhouse gases will not be let out into the wildlife, thus, decreasing the carbon footprint drastically. However, with every invention, comes particular challenges. These challenges include the cost of the solar panel and the storage of solar power. If I had infinite time and resources, I would improve the existing technologies by researching different materials used in building solar panels and storage units. There can be a reduction of cost per watt to under one dollar, and an increase in efficiency from eighty percent to ninety percent. In the end, the greatest invention of all time was the solar photovoltaic cell because factories, airports, people, and many more decreased their carbon footprint by changing to solar power.

In 15 years I hope to be...

A computer scientist with specialized knowledge in biology to precisely implement healthcare social programs. Furthermore, according to healthcare staff, there are many inefficiencies in the healthcare system that could be automated using software applications.