Every year, bangs and gasps come from the auditorium at the University of Chicago’s annual “Physics with a Bang!” as scientists demonstrate the surprise and power of science.
The free event, open to the public and all ages, includes two live shows, tours of actual working science laboratories at the University of Chicago, and many hands-on demonstrations for visitors to try.
Past shows have included crushing a 55–gallon steel drum as easily as a Coke can, accelerating a ping pong ball through a thick piece of cardboard at the speed of sound, and turning a cart on wheels into a rocket with the aid of a fire extinguisher.
“Lots of people think of science as difficult or mysterious, but we want to show that it’s really surprising and beautiful and—most of all—fun,” said Sidney Nagel, the Stein-Freiler Distinguished Service Professor of Physics at UChicago, who co-founded the event 17 years ago and still participates in the shows every year.
“We love seeing everyone’s eyes light up—from kids to grandparents,” said Heinrich Jaeger, the Sewell Avery Distinguished Service Professor of Physics and co-founder.
“Physics with a Bang!” will be held Dec. 7 at the University of Chicago Kersten Physics Teaching Center, 5720 S. Ellis Ave., from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
The shows take place at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. Admission is free; no registration is required.
For more information, visit the event website.
—Prof. Jacqueline Stewart
