Science Fair will explore the world of physics

The word physics originates from the Ancient Greek word phusicke meaning "the science of nature."

Physics is the science that deals with matter, energy, motion and force. It's a fundamental scientific discipline that is also the basis for space and time and helps us to understand how the universe works. If you've ever marveled at stars in the night sky, admired the functional beauty of a great bridge, or watched a helium-filled balloon rise, then you've experienced the extraordinary phenomenon called physics.

This year the Sisters Science Fair, set for noon to 4 p.m. on Saturday, March 18 at Sisters High School, is featuring "The World of Physics." The very loud and always exciting Ping-Pong Cannon is returning this year, shooting ping-pong balls through a tube at amazing speeds. This demo will be in the long hallway just outside of the physics room. Inside the physics room you'll find The World of Physics and fascinating demonstrations to put some wonder in your life.

The Rijke's tube turns heat into sound by creating a self-amplifying standing wave. It's not only entertaining, but it's an excellent example of resonance, oscillation, and amplitude. There's also the Rubens' tube that has a standing wave flame tube making it look like a giant birthday cake that shows the relationship between sound waves and sound pressure. If you've been to science museums you may have seen a mesmerizing pendulum wave demonstration with balls swinging back and forth as if they were one entity that changes.

Once The World of Physics has piqued your senses, head over to the astronomy exhibits and demos. The very popular planetarium will be offering glimpses of the night sky. Sisters Astronomy Club is featuring an adiabatic cloud chamber and an exhibit on solar eclipses. Sunriver Observatory will show off some rocket science and a sun telescope.

The Design, Construct, Compete Contests will take over the high school gym with elementary school students competing for the greatest distance run with their mousetrap cars, and middle and high school students will take you back to Greek and Roman artillery as they have a fierce competition with catapults.

To find out more about the science fair visit www.sistersscienceclub.org. If you'd like to volunteer to help at the science fair email Barbara Bott at [email protected]