Lasers and liquid nitrogen to inspire future scientists

Lasers and liquid nitrogen to inspire future scientists

North Queensland high school students will be able to find out more about electricity, liquid nitrogen, lasers, crystals and lights in a spectacular physics show at James Cook University’s Townsville campus next week.

JCU will hold its annual three-day The Science Experience event, an educational event for high school students, from Wednesday to Friday (October 1-3).

The week, designed for year nine and 10 students, is about hands-on science and engineering activities, conducted under the guidance of scientists and engineers.

The annual event, which is held in many different laboratories and lecture theatres across Australia, is sponsored by more than 35 universities and tertiary institutions.

JCU organiser Vivian Doherty said high schools around the Townsville area as well as students from Kingaroy, Mackay and Mount Isa were taking part.

“This is a fantastic opportunity for students who have an interest in science to engage in a wide range of fascinating science activities under the guidance of scientists who love their work,” she said.

Participants perform experiments in the laboratories, meet and hear senior lecturers in the lecture theatres, attend site visits and walk around and experience what it is like to be on the campus of a university or tertiary institution.

“The Physics Show will use electricity, liquid nitrogen, lasers, crystals and lights, and is sure to dazzle and excite anyone with a curiosity,” Ms Doherty said.

“You can also turn your smart phone into a microscope and use it to take photos of microscopic particles.”

Ms Doherty said the program also provided information about further studies in science, technology and engineering.

“It highlights the wide range of careers that allow students to pursue their interest and abilities in the sciences,” she said.

“Participants also love the opportunity to meet and share ideas with students from different schools.”

Attached is a full program of events for JCU’s Townsville campus.

For interviews or photos, contact Vivian Doherty in JCU’s Faculty of Science and Engineering on 4781 6807.

JCU Media Liaison: Caroline Kaurila, tel: (07) 4781 4586 or 0437 028 175

First published September 25, 2014