High Voltage and Big Sparks: All Invited to USU Physics' November Demo Show Friday, Nov. 17

How does a transformer work? How does wireless charging work? How does an induction cooktop generate heat? Can you really shrink a quarter with electrical current and make a Tesla coil sing?

Inquiring minds of all ages are invited to learn answers to these questions and more at the Utah State University Department of Physics’ 16th annual November Demo Show on Friday, Nov. 17.

“High Voltage and Big Sparks: Electromagnetic Induction” is the theme for the event, which begins at 7 p.m. in the Emert Auditorium, Room ESLC 130 of the Eccles Science Learning Center on the USU Logan campus. Admission is free and open to all.

“It’s time again to kick off Thanksgiving week with our popular annual tradition,” says James Coburn, Physics Teaching Laboratory supervisor and show coordinator. “We promise to deliver non-stop physics demonstration fun.”

Physics? Fun?

“Absolutely,” he says. “Unfortunately, many are intimidated by physics study. But it shouldn’t be that way — learning about science is something everyone can enjoy.”

Coburn says he was inspired to create the November Demo Show, now a Cache Valley favorite, by England’s Royal Institution Christmas Lectures, which have been a popular British tradition since 1825.

Parking for the event is available in the university parking terraces at 700 E. 600 North and 850 E. 700 North in Logan. For directions and more information, visit the November Demo Show website or call 435-797-2857.