Experience light, motion, sound and flames during Science Saturday’s Physics Extravaganza and Fluorescent Minerals at Stetson’s Gillespie Museum, Saturday, March 30, 10 a.m.-noon. The free event includes a wide variety of physics activities and demonstrations for young scientists.

Beginning at the Gillespie Museum, visitors will learn about the physics behind fluorescent minerals in the museum’s Underground World. Afterward, the action moves across campus to the university’s physics lab in the Sage Science Center, where Stetson’s Society of Physics Students chapter will conduct various experiments: a demonstration of the wavelengths of sound, using a standing-wave flame tube; a Magdeburg hemisphere vacuum tug-of-war; some of the dazzling effects of liquid nitrogen; and more. 

“Students in this honorary society enjoy bringing their knowledge and passion about their discipline to younger scientists,” said Kevin Riggs, Ph.D., professor and chair of physics and Society of Physics Students’ adviser. “Teams will demonstrate forces from sine waves to quantum levitation, making use of everything from balloons to sophisticated lab equipment.”

Each month during the academic year, the Gillespie Museum offers informal workshops designed and taught by faculty and undergraduate students.

“The museum’s aim is to combine informal science education with lively, Saturday morning fun,” said Karen Cole, Ph.D., director of the museum.

Young scientists and their families are asked to begin their exploration at the Gillespie Museum. Guides will lead visitors to the activities at both sites.

The Gillespie Museum’s collection and earth science displays also will be open for self-guided tours, including the spring 2019 exhibit, “Florida Calcite: Rare Specimens of a Common Mineral.”

-Sandra Carr