Physics Trip to CERN, Geneva
“Last weekend, our physicists had a smashing time with a visit to the European Centre for Nuclear Research (CERN), home of the Large Hadron Collider, the largest physics experiment devised by humans.
Our students were first given an inspiring introduction by two CERN physicists, with one describing the physics of the collider and the other explaining the engineering challenges of building such a facility. By accelerating beams of protons to high energies, then colliding them together inside large detectors, particle physicists aim to recreate the conditions soon after the Big Bang and discover new particles that may have existed in the early Universe. In doing so, they hope to refine our Standard Model of particle physics and push the boundaries of our knowledge of dark matter.
We were shown the CERN Control Centre, from where the activities of the massive complex are coordinated, and given a glimpse of how the tunnels of the accelerator are constructed. Our pupils were able to ask questions throughout the tour, which was a wonderful opportunity to interact with working physicists. We had lunch in the CERN Restaurant, an intellectual hub of international scholars, just like our school dining hall! We then explored the Exhibition Hall, which housed many interesting hands-on demonstrations of particle physics, electromagnetism, superconductivity and quantum mechanics. It was fantastic to hear our Year 11s applying their classroom learning to the magnetic fields used in the particle accelerator.
After our exciting visit to CERN, we spent the remainder of the trip taking in the sights of Geneva. We had a sunset cruise on Lake Geneva with clear views of the surrounding snow-topped mountains, and enjoyed the lakeside Christmas markets. The weather was beautiful on Saturday morning, so we slightly changed our itinerary to take advantage of the sunshine. We walked through the botanical park to the History of Science Museum, which had an impressive collection of antique scientific instruments, and caught a glimpse of the United Nations Headquarters. After a stop in the city centre for lunch and souvenir shopping, we walked through the Old Town up to the historic Saint Pierre Cathedral, climbing its two towers for panoramic views of the city.
Overall, we had an amazing and memorable trip, elevated by the fantastic engagement of our Rossallians. Pupils gained an inspiring insight into how an international scientific community is working to expand our knowledge of the Universe, as well as experiencing the best sights of Geneva. Thank you very much to all the pupils, parents and staff whose support made this experience possible.”
- Dr Hughes, Teacher of Physics
