| What: |
Science
Spectacular
is a new weekend program at the California Science
Center designed to help develop public interest
in science through large-scale, dramatic demonstrations.
Performed on a grand stage measuring 24' by 12'
with a backdrop suspended from the floor above,
the experiments have been chosen for their high
audio/visual impact. The first show in the series
centers around the theme of chemistry, and future
shows will feature other science themes. The show
has 5 demonstrations, including:
The
Exploding Egg - An empty chicken egg, with a
hole at its top and bottom, is filled with hydrogen.
As the hydrogen escapes, the top hole is lit, but
the fire is too small to be seen. As more hydrogen
escapes, atmospheric gas enters the bottom hole.
When the mixture of hydrogen to oxygen is just right,
the egg suddenly and unpredictably explodes!
Methane
Mamba - With the help of a volunteer from the
audience, methane gas is forced out of an inflatable
chair, through a hose and into a container of soapy
water. The methane bubbles, which are lighter than
air, float. A growing, vertical column of bubbles
sways with the air currents. And for a finale, the
bubble column will be set on fire, showing that
methane is also flammable.
The Foaming Volcano - A large glass cylinder
is partially filled with a strong hydrogen peroxide
solution. Liquid soap is added, followed by potassium
iodide. In an instant, the mixture turns reddish-brown
then erupts out of the top of the cylinder, creating
a huge, steaming, soapy mess.
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