RWTH Science Night Showcases Floating Cakes and Physics Fun

 

The 20th edition of the RWTH Science Night was a resounding success, drawing 7,200 visitors and featuring a science slam debut in the C.A.R.L. lecture hall complex.

On Friday evening, thousands of curious minds packed the University campus for the 20th anniversary of this beloved celebration of science and discovery. And true to form, even the event’s anniversary cake defied expectations - by floating in mid-air.

The floating cake demonstration came courtesy of Eric Siemes, a chemist and RWTH alumnus who has become a regular crowd favorite with his dynamic experimental shows. Known for his annual "wild journey into the world of science," Siemes didn’t disappoint. From a self-propelled bicycle that defies the wind to a paper UFO lifted by sound waves, from a musical glass tube to the classic explosive "BAAAMMM" finale, his performance captivated the packed H01 lecture hall. Each astonishing demonstration was accompanied by clear, insightful explanations, embodying the essence of the Science Night. "Our goal is to show in an engaging way what the University has to offer, and to make it understandable for everyone with a curiosity for science," said RWTH Rector Ulrich Rüdiger.

Over 80 events filled ten lecture halls and numerous seminar rooms with shows, lectures, experiments, talks, and discussions. The diverse program showcased everything from artificial intelligence (featuring Pepper the robot, courtesy of RWTH’s AI Center) to the ever-popular "Physics Fair". Presentations ranged from the latest analysis of the recent US election to spectacular high-voltage demonstrations, from discussions of the circular economy to explorations of the "Teslas of the Seas" and the construction sites of the future. The variety of topics reflected RWTH’s own rich diversity.

The Science Night continues to attract inquisitive young minds: Children had the opportunity to build wooden bridges using Leonardo da Vinci’s ancient principles, create their own pocket warmers using water, metal plates, and salt hydrate, and learn about centripetal acceleration through demonstrations with an old bicycle rim - discovering that it’s not about speed, but the direction of motion.

The computer science department showcased flying drones, self-driving robots, and the power of mathematical models to optimize ambulance deployment and ensure reliable pharmacy coverage. And what really happens when a balloon is dipped into liquid nitrogen at minus 196 degrees’ Answers to these questions and more were on full display throughout the night. It was an evening of excitement, fun, humor, and learning. "We’re thrilled to see just how well the Science Night concept continues to resonate with people," said Professor Rüdiger.

One of the evening’s highlights was the inaugural "Clash of Titans" science slam, where five professors proved that academic life isn’t just about textbooks and lectures. Each had eight minutes to showcase their academic field in the most entertaining way possible. Professors Jan Borchers, Christina Büsing, Robert Harlander, Kai-Uwe Schröder, and Daniel Wentzel took to the "ring" - the stage of lecture hall H01 - and each captivated the audience in unique ways. Computer scientist Borchers emerged victorious, earning the loudest applause according to RWTH’s own "phyphox" physics app. The human-computer interaction specialist’s hilarious presentation on the four key principles of technology usability included a memorable piece of wisdom: "Design awards are usually a dead giveaway for terrible usability."

And the mystery of the floating birthday cake’ It all came down to the Lorentz force - with the cake perched on an aluminum plate, suspended by electromagnetic forces from beneath. Just one more fascinating lesson from an evening full of discoveries. Based on this year’s success, anticipation is already building for the 21st edition next year.