62nd Annual STS (2002-2003)
Finalists
Peter Michal Pawlowski

CALIFORNIA
Peter Michal Pawlowski, 17, of Fullerton, submitted a chemistry project to the Intel Science Talent Search in which he used quantum mechanics to define the structure and stability of the sulfur trioxide-ammonia complex. The NH3SO3(H2O)n complex may act as an effective nucleation agent responsible for formation of atmospheric aerosols, cloud particles and smog. Greater knowledge of the physical nucleation process could lead to a better understanding of the dynamics of smog formation, which, in turn, could lead to improved techniques for controlling and preventing it. Peter hopes to major in computer science and mathematics at Stanford after graduation from Troy High School. He heads the school's national championship Science Olympiad team, science bowl team, math club and astronomy club, and he is a recent board member of the community service club. He enjoys sailing, photography, martial arts, tennis and web design, and his numerous math and science honors include the Rensselaer Science and Math Medal. Peter, who was born in Poland, is the son of Dr. Tomasz Pawlowski and Dr. Anna Pawlowska.