How much acid is in a lemon? Are there hidden carbs in fruit and vegetables? Girls ages 9-14 will answer questions like these at a program on food chemistry hosted by the Pisgah Astronomical Research Institute.
Girls will don safety glasses, gloves and aprons as they conduct experiments on glucose, carbs and acidity. Chemistry, physics and earth-science programs like these are part of the SciGirls initiative, a national effort to engage girls in science, technology, engineering and math. The Public Broadcasting Service and Twin Cities Public Television sponsor this “engaging combination of actual girls exploring real-world science and math alongside successful female mentors in the field” to help foster the next generation of female scientists.
PARI’s SciGirls programs are usually held the last Tuesday of the month, but this month’s program will be held on Tuesday, May 22, from 6-8 p.m. due to Memorial Day. (The website may indicate a later date, but May 22 has been confirmed) Registration is required and an adult must accompany each student. $10.