Talk: When magnets meet liquid nitrogen...

This event is part of the Royal Society's Summer Science Exhibition 2024. 

We all know that different materials have unique properties. For instance, water can transform into ice, liquid, or steam based on the temperature. These transformations are known as phase transitions.

In this demonstration, Dr Gunnar Möller and Megan Bell will reveal captivating phase transitions in materials like magnets and high-temperature superconductors. They'll use liquid nitrogen to cool these materials to astonishingly low temperatures, creating mesmerizing effects! Discover how superconductors float above powerful magnets, all due to the wonders of quantum mechanics.

Dr. Gunnar Möller is senior research fellow at the University of Kent's School of Physics and Astronomy and has recently completed a Royal Society University Research Fellowship. He uses powerful computers and the mind-bending science of quantum mechanics to create models that predict the behaviour of materials like superconductors and topological materials. These materials have incredible properties, like floating above magnets or conducting electricity without any resistance. Gunnar's work helps us understand and harness these exotic states of matter. 

Megan Bell is a STEM Outreach Officer at the University of Kent, where she leads the exciting STEM Outreach & Widening Participation program. She travels to schools and colleges across Kent and Medway, inspiring students to reach for the stars in science, technology, engineering, and math. Megan's mission is to help students achieve their dreams and realize their full potential in these exciting fields.

Attending the event

This talk will be held in the Kohn Centre on Wednesday 3 July 2024, 12.30pm - 1pm.

• Free to attend, no ticket required
• The room has limited capacity, so we recommend that visitors arrive at least 10-15 minutes before the talk. We operate a first-come, first-served policy. 
• This talk will take place in person at the Royal Society and will also be livestreamed on the Royal Society YouTube channel.
• Live subtitles will be available in-person and virtually
• Suitable for students (14+)
• Travel and accessibility information and details on planning your visit - contact us directly to arrange any specific accessibility requirements.
• Food and drink will be available for purchase at our onsite café.

For all enquiries, please email us.

Image credit: Jaron James