Falling for Physics at the 17th Annual Pumpkin Drop and Physics Carnival

The Department of Physics within the Schmidt College of Science is preparing for its much-anticipated 17^th annual Pumpkin Drop and Physics Carnival, on Friday, Oct. 24. Beginning at 10 a.m., crowds will gather outside the four-story Science and Engineering Building (SE-43) on the Boca Raton campus to see just how fun—and educational—pitching pumpkins can be.  

Department of Physics Chair Luc Wille, Ph.D., will appear in character as Sir Isaac Newton to narrate the event, and Associate Vice President James Capp, Ph.D., will have the honor of launching the first pumpkin. Dean Valery Forbes, Ph.D., along with other faculty and staff from the Department of Physics, are also slotted to participate in the smashing spectacle. This year, the college anticipates a record 500 local school children to attend—up from 325 last year. 

At 10:30 a.m., across the lawn, the Physics Carnival will be underway. The carnival will feature both returning favorites and new demonstrations, including a pumpkin lines drop comparison, a geosciences table showcasing rock fluorescence and MRI brain teasers. Visitors can also look forward to the ever-popular rocket launches, entropy bomb and a variety of other fun, interactive physics demonstrations. Don't miss special appearances by Owlsley and Hoot—and Nala, the Florida Atlantic Police Department's adorable therapy dog.

This longstanding event is hosted by the Department of Physics and the Society of Physics Students. From faculty and staff members to postdoctoral students, graduate and undergraduate physics majors, everyone in the department participates. 

Don’t miss one of the university’s favorite fall traditions of Owl-time! Find event details here.