The Department of Physics hosted a exhibition entitled: "2005-International Year of Physics in Tamkang" at the Exhibition Hall of the Business Administration Building last week in commemorating the 55th anniversary. One of the attractions at the exhibition was the device known as the Van der Graaf generator, since whoever touches it, the hair of that person will shoot up immediately due to, well, the law of physics. Apparently, many people enjoy the sensation that resembles electrical shock.

As it is known that this year is also the year of Einstein, whose theories of relativity and quantum physics have far-reaching impact on many daily applications we take for granted today. On his centennial, Tamkang took this opportunity to remind the students here how great a scientist Einstein was and his ideas continue to influence people of the 21st century. Hence, the exhibition, we could see many simple applications based on his complex ideas.

Apart from books and posters related to Einstein, there was also a small model of a stage equipped with special laser lighting effects created by He, Ne, mixed with future-sounding music. Seeing this at work, many students suddenly realized that the fancy light and sound they often experiences on live concerts were only a simple manipulation of the law of physics.

Similar amazement was also experienced with a simple memory chip that is operated by the water temperature to generate power for a windmill. A further wonderment was inspired by a satellite/antenna that can pick up any minute sound in a distance. ( ~Ying-hsueh Hu )