Discovering the sound of physics in Bristol…

Last week the ‘The Galleries’ Mall in Bristol echoed to the sound of science as shoppers were entertained and intrigued by the ‘Discover 2010′ event.  Organised by the University of Bristol’s Centre for Public Engagement as part of National Science & Engineering Week this free, interactive exhibition showcased the latest research ranging from science & art to engineering & medicine.  On Friday 12th & Saturday 13th March the shopping mall echoed to the sound of musical straws and popping balloons as visitors tried their hand at some simple physics experiments at the Institute of Physics South West stand.

 
Supported by the Science Communication Unit at UWE, 18 undergraduate & postgraduate student volunteers from the Department of Physics and various Doctoral Training Centres at Bristol Uni worked with UWE Student Science Communicators to enthuse more than 400 school students and members of the public over the 2 days.  Old and young alike enjoyed having a go at making Straw Oboes and Balloon Kebabs and figuring out how you get such loud noises from just a bucket, some string and a damp cloth…

The whole event was a great success.  Many visitors particularly enjoyed having a go at the demos and being surprised by the physics of everyday life.  As one commented: ‘I liked it all but I liked the balloons mostly’