Twist and Shout: All Invited to USU Physics' November Demo Show Friday, Nov. 21

Why don't tops tip over while spinning? How do you throw a curve ball? How do you sail a ship without a sail? How do you blow out a candle from across the room?

Inquiring minds of all ages are invited to learn answers to these questions and more at the Utah State University Department of Physics’ 18th annual November Demo Show on Nov. 21.

“Physics with a Twist: The Science of Spinning” is the theme for the event, which begins at 7 p.m. in the Emert Auditorium, Room ESLC 130 of the Eccles Science Learning Center on campus. Admission is free and open to all.

“It’s time again to kick off Thanksgiving week with our popular annual tradition,” says James Coburn, Physics Teaching Laboratory supervisor and show coordinator. “We promise to deliver nonstop physics demonstration fun.”

Physics? Fun?

“Absolutely,” he 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.

Visitor parking for the event is available in the university parking terraces at 700 E. 600 North and 850 E. 700 North in Logan.

For more information about the show, call 435-797-2857.