‘Dirtmeister’ visits Willow Road

Geomorphologist and author Steve Tomecek presented a special program about everyday science found at home to students at the Willow Road School on April 1.

The show, “Science Around the House,” explored the science behind gravity, air pressure and sound energy in and around homes. Tomecek used coffee cans, Rice Krispies, mixing bowls and a toilet plunger to demonstrate the concepts, and showing how air pressure helps the toilet flush, how gravity makes juice spill to the floor and how the phaser shooting sounds for "Star Trek" were created using a vibrating metal coil.

Tomecek has written more than 45 science books for children and teachers and donated some autographed books to the school’s library.

The program was sponsored by the school’s Parent Teacher Association.