By MaryCatherine Karcich, Contributing Writer
Hudson – Hudson High School hosted its annual Haunted Physics Lab Oct. 28 in one of the school’s classrooms.
According to teacher and this year’s coordinator Rebekah Whitesel, the Haunted Physics Lab was started over 10 years ago by a previous physics teacher. Since then, the event has received nothing but positive feedback and continues to grow in attendees. The program is meant to inspire kids and spark interest in science and engineering; however, they also make sure it’s not too scary.
Whitesel explained that many of the same demonstrations are used year to year, with some new additions. Each of her students was assigned a station at which they demonstrated an experiment. Students spent time researching the experiments.
Entry to the event was the donation of one non-perishable food item. Students Claudia and Olivia guarded the entrance, named the “Dead Zone.” The tunnel-like walkway made up of egg carton walls was meant to replicate an anechoic chamber, a room designed to absorb all sound.
Inside the lab, “Spooky Sounds” was set up at the front of the room, an experiment to
teach kids about different sounds and noises. Students Alec, Reese and Marcello donned white-painted faces and a mask, appearing as a spooky rock band. They were equipped with instruments such as a drum set and guitars that were made out of everyday items to assist with their demonstration.
Haley and Lesley demonstrated “Chladini Plates,” an experiment based off of German physicist Ernst Chaldini’s work. Using a plate covered with sand, they would change noise frequencies to show the different patterns. Some other stations included Fluorescent Fluids, Phantom Light, Pendulum Wave and the Great Pumpkin.
