Harsco Science Center Exhibits
Physics
Physics points out that to understand physical science and technology, it is necessary to understand the principles of physics. Educationally rich, The Galleries of Physics are serious fun, filled with engaging hands-on activities designed for self-paced exploration and discovery. These colorful learning playgrounds include the Gallery of Force and Motion, Simple Machines, Bodies in Motion: The Physics of Human Movement, and Backstage Science: The Physics of Theater.

Forces and Motion explores the basic physics that shape the universe, including basic atomic and nuclear science and electromagnetism. It answers a very basic question: What is the world made of? Hands-on exhibits reveal the principles of basic atomic and nuclear science, gravity and electromagnetism.

Simple Machines reminds us that every machine, no matter how complex, is created from a combination of the simple machines: gears, screws, pulleys, wheels and axles, and inclined planes. Interactive exhibits invite visitors to experiment with the simple machines that helped build the pyramids and form the basis of the most modern equipment in the world.

Bodies in Motion : The Physics of Human Movement is one of the flagship exhibits at Whitaker Center, a unique expression of the relationship between science and the arts. It explores the physics that is literally embodied in human movement, especially dance, ice skating and gymnastics. Interactive exhibits connect Newton's Laws to human motion, reveal the roles of torque and rotational momentum in turns, show how dancers manipulate their center of gravity to create the illusion of floating during leaps, and how physics illuminate the differences between dance and ice skating.

Backstage Science invites visitors to discover the science and technology that creates the theatrical experience. When the curtain goes up, lights dim and Peter Pan flies, the forces of physics are at work. Backstage Science invites visitors to discover the science and technology that creates the theatrical experience. An interactive model introduces the mechanical systems that operate behind the scenes in a theater. Visitors experiment with, sound effects and lighting stations, and a room that distorts space with false perspective. The theater model is designed to replicate Sunoco Performance Theater at Whitaker Center.