Cost: suggested donation is $300. Location: Plasma Science and Fusion Center, Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Running Time: 1 hour.

The Traveling Plasma Lab Program

Although most students can name three states of matter (solid, liquid and gas), relatively few know that a fourth state – the plasma state – exists, and that it makes up almost the entire visible universe. The Traveling Plasma Lab provides a one-hour demonstration of the principles of plasma science. Using a glow discharge plasma, an emission spectrometer, and such ubiquitous substances as nail polish remover, local dirt and a pickle, students discover, by experiment, the unique properties of the plasma state. They role-play as environmental detectives while identifying pollutants (such as mercury or salt) in the environment. MIT technical supervisor Paul Thomas brings a truck-load of hands-on demonstrations and experiments into schools to show students that science is not an inaccessible topic, but a source of fascination and fun. Running time, 1 hour.

The Audience

This educational program can accommodate any size group that can fit in your auditorium, gymnasium or performance space. Content and experiments are tailored to middle school or high school age groups. This program is suitable only for middle school or high school students. During each program, volunteers will perform hands-on experiments in plasma science.

Cost

Plasma Lab is sponsored by MIT, but has no direct funding for expenses. If your budget allows, a suggested donation of $300.00 to support the program is welcome.

Scheduling a Visit

The Plasma Lab Program is accepting bookings for the month of December. Please call or send in a registration form to schedule a visit. The best time to secure a specific date is May or June prior to the new academic year, as available dates fill quickly. Late requests must be wait-listed for the following year. The confirmed date is subject to the demands of our research projects, bad weather, or other unforeseen difficulties If we cancel, we will make every effort to reschedule as soon as possible.

Important Considerations

1. Because we bring a large amount of heavy equipment on wheels, we need to understand the options for unloading our truck into your auditorium. Stairs are an obstacle; we need rolling access. However, we can navigate some outside stairs as our truck is equipped with a long ramp.
2. Please be aware that the truck, a cargo type with an overall length of 35 feet, will take up three parking places at your facility.
3. A gym or auditorium is best for this presentation.

Publicity

Press coverage is important to the program. It helps with future funding and promotes science education. Please contact your local news media for coverage.

Contact Info

For further information about the plasma program, please contact Mary Pat McNally, (617) 253-5449.

If you have a question for Paul Thomas about plasma, please contact Paul Thomas, (617) 253-8430.

Download information about the Traveling Plasma Lab

Sign-up for the Traveling Plasma Lab to visit your school

Please check the PSFC Website Outreach page to learn about other K-12 programs

Filed under: For Teachers, K-12 Outreach Programs, Web Resources

Tags: Plasma