A 14-year-old scientist took home $25,000 from a national science competition for inventing a liquid bandage that could replace antibiotics （抗生素）.
Kara Fan from San Diego, CA won the 3M Young Scientist Challenge in St. Paul, Minnesota. Fan came up with a special liquid bandage that could replace the overuse of antibiotics. "I want to show my invention of the liquid bandage to more people. I think it is important for more people to be aware of the serious crisis and do something about it," Fan said.
The 3M Young Scientist Challenge is a national competition for middle school students, which takes place every year. The students are tasked with coming up with an idea or invention that solves existing problems.
Ten finalists are chosen to compete for the title of "America's Top Young Scientist" and a grand prize of $25,000. After being selected, they work with scientists to make their idea come to life. Each competitor is judged on their invention's creativity, scientific knowledge, persuasiveness（ 说 服 力 ） and communication, and overall presentation. Apart from Kara Fan, other finalists included Jaya Choudray, who invented an airflow control robot that helps to save energy in a home, and Caroline Crouchley, who invented a climate-friendly transportation system that doesn't need a diesel engine or electric motors.
3M holds the competition for students in grades 5-8 because its research has shown that their interest in science fades, which is terrible for a country. And they want to inspire the young to develop love in science.
