Get ready to use marshmallows as a form of measurement. In this week’s Science Sunday, we learn how to measure the speed of light by microwaving a plate of mini marshmallows. After a twenty-second cook time without spinning the plate, we measure the space between two puffier, softer marshmallows. In the speed of light equation, we take the space measurement and multiply it by 2 to get a full wavelength. Then, we multiply the frequency of the microwave found on the back by 106. Finally, we multiply the total wavelength by the total frequency. Try it at home and make sure you have your calculator handy!
London Brazal is a Community Engagement and Marketing Intern at the Connecticut Science Center. She is a rising senior at Marist College working towards a Bachelor of Arts in Communications and Public Relations.
