This page contains the material submitted to the local paper - The Davis Enterprise - for Explorit Science Center's news column published in that paper on Fridays.

Article for: The Davis Enterprise
Date: January 28, 2005
Author: Pamela Emery

FIDDLING WITH PHASES

These past few weeks have been a bit dreary with the fog, dew and mist quite apparent. All around, people express their need to see the sun. Let's take a look at this weather with a scientific eye. It's nature's way of fiddling with water in its different phases.

Early frost in October and November began the winter season. This was followed by incredible snowstorms in the Sierras, significant rain, and even flooding in many parts of the state. And now, for just a few more weeks, Valley residents are experiencing the long stretches of overcast days. Before long, the fog will be gone and people will be enjoying numerous outdoor activities. Think about it... water in its different forms gives us the weather we experience.

Investigate different forms in the Family Explorations program, "What's the Matter?" tomorrow from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. at Explorit. Observe various states of matter-solids, liquids, and gasses-while performing fun, hands-on activities. It is free with paid admission to the museum.

Through chemical reactions, liquids can become solids and vice versa. Other times liquids become solids due to physical changes such as a change in temperature. One such physical change example is water becoming ice. Think about this as you make some "flubber" or bust bubbles using common household ingredients. Tara Barbier, Family Explorations program coordinator, will guide you in the matter-changing activities.

Explorit's Communications Coordinator Tom Wickersham is pleased that Davis Waste Removal is the sponsor for the 2004-2005 Family Explorations program. "With their support Explorit is able to expand Family Explorations to include special family-friendly programs at least three Saturdays each month."

With so many new programs being featured, families who haven't been to Explorit in a while should make a point of checking this out. Wickersham encourages families to "come see what's new and take advantage of all the new Family Explorations we've been able to offer with Davis Waster Removal's support."

Matter explorations can continue after leaving Explorit. Make "Explor-ick" at the science center then head to the library and check out the Dr. Seuss book, Bartholomew and the Oobleck. Compare the substance in the story with the one made at Explorit.

Whatever you do this weekend, take a moment to stop and think about the solids, liquids and gasses that make our weather what it is, and appreciate the science that impacts our lives in so many ways.

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Explorit Science Center is at 3141 5th St. in East Davis. The current exhibition "Have a Ball! Toying with Physical Science" runs through March 13. Public hours are Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and Tuesday through Friday from 2 to 4:30 p.m. For more information, visit www.explorit.org or call Explorit at (530) 756-0191.