Visitors to UQ St Lucia’s Open Day (August 2) will not only have the opportunity to plan their future studies but dip their toes into a gravity-defying phenomenon.
Using the science of the Oobleck experiment, the UQ Physics Demo Troupe will demonstrate how to successfully walk on water.
The troupe will break the gravity barrier using portions of cornflour and water, mixed equally by weight.
Science Communications Co-ordinator Andrew Stephenson, from the School of Mathematics and Physics, who is also a troupe member, said the key to the non-newtonian fluid experiment was to move quickly.
“If you’re running on the spot too slowly you will actually sink,” Mr Stephenson said.
“When you apply force quickly the water between the cornflour molecules gets pushed out.”
Visitors to Open Day can also see how fireballs are made using flour, observe liquid nitrogen at -200 degrees, as well as try their luck in a scientific tug-of-war contest as part of demonstrations planned within the Great Court.
Other Open Day highlights include a “Laser Light Fantastic” where potential students can watch lasers dance to the beat, “Secret Maths Business” which opens the mind to the world of cryptography systems, as well as the opportunity to tour the Physics Museum where visitors can shake hands with their own image, explore Australian-made electronic instruments and check out the infamous pitch drop experiment.
There will also be information sessions on careers in Science and the opportunity to talk to academic staff as well as current students about programs and courses available within the Faculty.
Visitors will also have the chance to win the ultimate Mac Pack, valued at more than $5000, along with early bird bonus prizes of 8GB Apple iPhones. There will be terminals to enter in the UQ Centre foyer.
Free parking is available on campus all day and there will also be regular bus, train and CityCat services. For transport information visit www.translink.qld.gov.au.
For more information on activities or to plan your personal Open Day itinerary click on http://www.youruq.com/openday/
UQ Open Days
> St Lucia (Sunday, August 2) – (9am-3pm)
> Ipswich (Wednesday, August 19) – (3:30pm-6:30pm)
> Gatton (Sunday, August 23) – (9:30am-3pm)
Media: Eliza Plant at UQ Communications (07 3365 2619)
