Phenomenal Physics Show

On the 26th of October, the year 11 Physics class left school during second break for an outing at UCT. In one of the university’s lecture rooms, the science presentation was organised by Dr Wheaton and presented by a host of professors, as well as some students. The head of the Physics department, Professor Peterson, was also present.

We were given an ‘A’ sheet and a ‘B’ sheet for answering questions, and, making an effort to demonstrate many fascinating fields of science through experiments, the professors showed us numerous concepts from our curriculum. 

To begin with, we had component velocity, shown through marble and projectile experiments. 

After that, we looked at the unique wave and particle nature of light and the evidence of its nature shown by single-plane polarised sheets (and sunglasses), which can completely block the path of light. It was also incredible to see what colours different elements produced and the dispersion of light through a hard plastic lens engraved with microscopic lines that allowed the refraction.

Then we were introduced to the Cartesian Diver, otherwise known as the ‘Pet Squid’. It involved applying pressure to the base of a water bottle, which would then weigh down the ‘Squid’ – an open apparatus with an air pocket – by compressing the air and filling it further with water. 

We were also shown the principles of balloon buoyancy and balancing the upward force of a helium balloon with a weight so that it remained stationary, as per Newton’s first law of motion.

Nuclear imaging was covered, as well as its use in diagnostic imaging and radiotherapy, which involves studying a radioactive substance dissolved by tissues using positron emission tomography (PET).

The next set of experiments involved liquid nitrogen, a substance that boils at -196 °C. We witnessed the effect of adding boiling water to liquid nitrogen, which created an impressive cloud at the front of the hall. After that we looked at the effects of freezing temperatures on certain materials: the professor solidified an egg in a couple of minutes, shattered a squash ball, and made a hammer out of a banana. The liquid nitrogen was even able to act as a protective layer for a tungsten light bulb to function. 

In the final experiment, we were introduced to the Meissner effect, involving magnetic fields and superconductors at extremely cold temperatures. It had the fantastic result of allowing a magnet to levitate. 

It was lovely to see more of UCT and the prospects they offer in Physics, to visualise much of what we’ve studied, and learn about unfamiliar theories. Thank you to Dr Doyle for arranging such an incredible trip!

– By Hannah