Mad science (8 photos)

'Mr. MacDonald's Mad Science' was the theme of a March Break event held at the Sault Ste. Marie Public Library's Centennial Branch Wednesday.

Matthew MacDonald, the library's manager of public services, assisted by Lynn Aube, library children's department clerk, and several student volunteers, provided children from seven to 10 years old with an educational and fun afternoon by giving them a chance to observe and take part in basic scientific experiments.

MacDonald said the free event, attended by 25 children Wednesday, tends to be the favourite March Break event held at the library.

Parents called up Wednesday morning asking if there were still spaces available for their children for the afternoon's fun, but had to be turned away, MacDonald said.

Children learned about magnetism, gravity and water through using slingshots, making containers pop with Alka-Seltzer (one of the most popular activities of the afternoon), what happens to corn starch when water is added, how to keep water from spilling when a water-filled container is held upside down, and other neat scientific stuff.

MacDonald also demonstrated how to make an egg float (or sink, depending on what kind of water you use), what happens when you mix Mentos and Coca-Cola, and his Aqua Launcher (a water-propelled rocket).

Wednesday's event was one of several being held for children throughout the community, at each of the library's three locations and other sites, throughout March Break.

For a list of activities, click here