Every year, the University of Chicago hosts "Physics with a Bang!", an event designed to demonstrate the excitement and power of science. This free public event, suitable for all ages, includes live shows, tours of working science laboratories at the university, and numerous hands-on demonstrations.

In previous years, attendees have witnessed dramatic experiments such as crushing a 55-gallon steel drum with ease, propelling a ping pong ball through cardboard at sonic speeds, and transforming a wheeled cart into a rocket using a fire extinguisher.

Sidney Nagel, the Stein-Freiler Distinguished Service Professor of Physics at UChicago and co-founder of the event, expressed his enthusiasm: “Lots of people think of science as difficult or mysterious, but we want to show that it’s really surprising and beautiful and—most of all—fun.” Heinrich Jaeger, the Sewell Avery Distinguished Service Professor of Physics and co-founder, added: “We love seeing everyone’s eyes light up—from kids to grandparents.”

This year's "Physics with a Bang!" will take place on December 7 at the University of Chicago's Kersten Physics Teaching Center located at 5720 S. Ellis Ave., from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. The shows are scheduled for 11 a.m. and 2 p.m., with free admission and no registration required.

For further details, interested individuals can visit the event website.