21st season of ‘Wonders of Physics’ program scheduled

Sudden explosions and shocking stunts turn the typical lecture on physics into the “Wonders of Physics” – an annual program that excites audience members of all ages with the physical phenomena that surround their daily lives. This year’s program, free and open to the public, will be held Feb. 8, 14 and 15.

The master of ceremony is Clint Sprott, a University of Wisconsin–Madison physics professor who started the program more than 20 years ago. Calling on audience participation, the tuxedo-clad Sprott and his costumed assistants enable those who attend to witness the laws and principles that guide the behavior of the motion, heat, sound, electricity and magnetism that we experience every day. While some of the experiences may seem more like magic – such as the mysterious disappearance of Sprott himself – they can always be explained with physics.

The theme of the program this year is the “States of Matter.” Shows will take place in 1300 Sterling Hall, 475 N. Charter St., on the UW–Madison campus on Sunday, Feb. 8, at 1 p.m. and 4 p.m.; Saturday, Feb. 14, at 1 p.m. and 4 p.m.; and Sunday, Feb. 15, at 1 p.m. and 4 p.m. In addition, tours of physics laboratories will be offered 2-4 p.m. each day.

For information or to order tickets for one of the demonstrations, call (608) 262-2927, visit Wonders of Physics Web site or e-mail jcreardon@wisc.edu (specify subject: Ticket request).