Two Fresno cousins combined their curiosity and love of chemistry to create a middle-school science fair project with practical applications.

Simran Kaur, 13, and Sharen Johal, 12, were among the 140 sixth- to eighth-grade finalists Wednesday at the Central California Regional Science, Mathematics and Engineering Fair in Fresno.

The two students from Rio Vista Middle School in Fresno created a project testing whether baking soda could be used in place of baking powder, where they could apply their interest in chemistry to common topics such as cooking. Their conclusion: Baking soda could indeed be used in place of baking powder.

"I'm interested in answering typical questions that never really get answered and help others while we are learning," Kaur said. "My mom really liked it."

Valley school teachers and scientists applied their knowledge and experience to select these finalists out of 550 students who entered.

Jennifer Weibert, who is with the Fresno County Office of Education and is director of the regional science fair, believes the fair sets the foundation for children to succeed.

"It's great for the kids to see the interaction of science, experience it for themselves and when it pays off, it can really change the rest of their lives," Weibert said.

The goal for this year's event was to enhance the incorporation of scientists into the program by inviting local scientists to participate as judges.

"It gives students the chance to establish long-lasting relationships and even have the opportunity to work with scientists throughout the year," Weibert said.

Local biologist Jason Dean encourages students to participate and think of projects that can have practical applications.

"The key is to keep students motivated and help them learn and build off what they already have in mind," Dean said.

Student creativity is put to the test as judges interview each finalist on the process and results of each project, ranging from earth science to biochemistry.

"I'm trying to get students to open their eyes and explore," said judge and chemist Leonard Fong.

Sixth-grader Jude Groft, a student at John Walsh Elementary School in Fresno, said he enjoys coming back to the fair each year.

"I like to be creative, and the fair gives me the chance to design my own projects and do things outside the regular classroom work," Groft said.

The first-place winners will be announced today and will advance to the California State Science Fair held in Los Angeles April 15 and 16.