‘The Heat is On’ at USU Physics’ November demo show Friday, Nov. 21

LOGAN – There’s no such thing as cold, says Utah State University physicist James Coburn.

What?! How can anyone in Cache Valley experiencing this month’s cold snap believe that?

“In physics, cold is simply the absence of heat,” says Coburn, teaching laboratory supervisor and demonstration specialist in USU’s Department of Physics.

Inquiring minds of all ages are invited to explore this intriguing idea and more at USU Department of Physics’ seventh annual November Demo Show Friday, Nov. 21.

This year’s theme is “The Heat is On: Exploring Thermodynamics.” The gathering begins at 7 p.m. in the Emert Auditorium, Room 130, of the Eccles Science Learning Center on campus. Admission is free and open to all ages.

“It’s time again to kick off Thanksgiving week with our popular annual tradition,” Coburn says. “This year, we’ll see if we can use ice to boil water, crush a 55-gallon drum, explore how special materials protect space vehicles, learn how steam engines, hot air balloons and lava lamps work and a whole lot more. It will be an evening of ‘red-hot’ fun.”

Physics? Fun?

“Absolutely,” Coburn says. “Unfortunately, many are intimidated by physics study. But it shouldn’t be that way – learning about science is something everyone can enjoy.”

Coburn says he was inspired to create the November Demo Show, now a Cache Valley favorite, by England’s Royal Institution Christmas Lectures, which have been a popular British tradition since 1825.

Parking for the event is available in the surface lot south of Old Main and the university parking terraces at 700 E. 600 North and 850 E. 700 North in Logan. For directions and more information, visit www.usu.edu/science/unwrapped or call 435-797-3517.

Free News Delivery by Email

Would you like to have the day's news stories delivered right to your inbox every evening? Enter your email below to start!