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Presented by the WIU Departments of Physics and Chemistry, the 2012 Science Demonstration Show is slated to start at 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 29 and is called "Sherlock's Secrets of Scientific Sleuthing," in honor of the books and movies about the famous fictional detective Sherlock Holmes.
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WIU Annual Science Demo Show Nov. 29; Show's 2012 Theme, 'Sherlock's Secrets of Scientific Sleuthing'

November 19, 2012

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MACOMB, IL – Explore the way in which science and solving crimes meet at the annual Science Demonstration Show at Western Illinois University next week. Presented by the WIU Departments of Physics and Chemistry, the 2012 show—slated to start at 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 29—is called "Sherlock's Secrets of Scientific Sleuthing," in honor of the books and movies about the famous fictional detective Sherlock Holmes.

According to WIU Physics Professor James Rabchuk, the show will be held in Currens Hall, room 205, and should last about one to one-and-a-half hours.

"The theme of our show is based on Sherlock Holmes' remarkable powers of observation and deduction," Rabchuk noted. "So many of his sayings have become a part of our common language. The one we like as the slogan for our show is, 'It is a capital mistake to theorize ahead of the facts.' We will present demonstrations related to crime scene investigations, as well as explore some of the science the character Holmes used in the recent movie series."

Rabchuk said demonstrations will include the topics of resonance; electricity and magnetism; using inertia against one's opponents; and heat and convection.

"We will have plenty of chances for audience participation, so we encourage everyone who comes to join in the fun and dress up as your favorite detective," he added. "There will also be special appearances by Professor Moriarty and Sherlock Holmes himself, and special 'crispy' treats will be provided at the end of the show. Commemorative t-shirts will be available for sale, as well."

For more information, contact Rabchuk at (309) 298-2577 or via email at JA-Rabchuk@wiu.edu.

Posted By: University Communications (U-Communications@wiu.edu)
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