Strange Matter

Reported December 2007

PHOENIX, Ariz. (Ivanhoe Newswire) -- Bizarre, wacky, gooey and fun! Something really strange may be coming to a city near you. When it does, it will answer all kinds of questions like, can a spider's silk be strong enough to stop a 747 jet in flight?

This is the science of stuff. Kids are getting down and dirty in it, and as they get messy -- they also get a lesson on strange matter.

"I'm a material scientist and they say that's really cool," Shenda Baker, professor of chemistry at Harvey Mudd College said.

Dr. Baker is part of a traveling exhibit that’s making its way across the country.

"Materials science is really the study of stuff," explained Dr. Baker.

And after all, who loves stuff more than kids? This award-winning blend of physics, chemistry and engineering is also a hands-on, interactive experience where kids and their families have fun.

"I think there's some pretty interesting substances. I learned a lot about things that are built up like atomic structure," said 13-year-old Will, who visited the exhibit.

"Anytime we can engage a child or even an adult in being interested in science and technology that's a win in our book," Kristen Priscella of the Arizona Science Center said.

Material science may also help deal with issues such as global warming, pollution and life expectancy.

The Materials Research Society contributed to the information contained in the TV portion of this report.

Click here to Go Inside This Science or contact:

Materials Research Society
(724) 779-3003
webmaster@mrs.org

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Here's a scientific term for you: stuff. What is it? It's all around, and this traveling showcase is teaching kids and adults the importance of studying their stuff.