BC Science World Relieves Some Pressure

The entire Grade 9 class was treated to a display of whizzes and bangs this Monday delivered by BC Science World and their travelling road show. The theme was “Under Pressure” which seemed appropriate given Brentwood’s upcoming exam week! The presenters showed how gases and chemicals can be compressed to produce a variety of explosive effects. First, pop bottle rockets were fired using a bicycle pump to deliver the thrust. When a small amount of water was added to the bottle a surprising “oomph” was added to the launch as, it was explained, the reduced volume for the air increased the pressure. A model cannon fizzed and exploded acetylene gas. A “bazooka” made from a drainpipe shot a foam ball. Flammable powder was used to make a “Harry Potter” style ball of flame appear in midair. One student even sat on a chair of nails where the pressure was spread over so many points that it was actually quite comfortable! The final demonstration was the “Chain of Pain” where a string of students attached to a Van de Graaf generator at one end and a teacher grounded by a metal chair at the other (Thanks, Mr. McCarthy), conducted an electric shock along the chain. Though quite mild it “generated” a lot of excitement as did the show as a whole.