Little explorers as visitors: A day full of science and amazement at the FRM II

The children watch in amazement as Tobias Neuwirth shrinks a balloon with liquid nitrogen. © FRM II / TUM

The children watch in amazement as Tobias Neuwirth shrinks a balloon with liquid nitrogen. © FRM II / TUM

This summer, children from the Nachbarschaftshilfe Garching e.V. enjoyed an unforgettable day at our FRM II research neutron source. With bright eyes and boundless curiosity, 17 young visitors, accompanied by their supervisor, explored the site and delved deep into the world of science. Welcomed by Johanna Jochum and Veronika Reich, the children were introduced to the mysteries of neutron science in an engaging and accessible way.

Gummy bears and toothpicks – Hands-on chemistry
After a brief introduction by Johanna Jochum, the session became interactive: the children used gummy bears and toothpicks to recreate chemical bonds. This fun exercise quickly turned into a learning moment, as they built molecular models, illustrating how atoms combine to form molecules.

A peek into the reactor building – In awe at the visitor window
Next, the tour moved into the reactor building. With an adventurous spirit (and no gummy bears allowed), the children explored the impressive facility. Guided by Veronika Reich and Johanna Jochum, they had the chance to view the brilliant blue water of the reactor pool from the observation window. Among the many curious questions, one of the youngest visitors asked, “Can you jump into the reactor pool from here?” Veronika Reich replied with a grin, glancing at the several-centimetre-thick pane of safety glass between the group and the pool: ‘Better not – the water is a beautiful blue, but definitely not meant for swimming.’

Explore the structure of molecules in a fun way - molecules are recreated with gummy bears and marshmallows. © FRM II / TUM

Explore the structure of molecules in a fun way - molecules are recreated with gummy bears and marshmallows. © FRM II / TUM

Experiments with liquid nitrogen – An icy delight
The grand finale of the visit featured an exciting demonstration of liquid nitrogen’s properties, led by Tobias Neuwirth. The children watched in awe as a balloon shrank in the icy liquid nitrogen, only to return to its original shape as it warmed. This magical transformation was just the beginning. Soon after, the children were treated to a demonstration of fresh ice cream preparation. With a practiced hand, Tobias Neuwirth mixed yogurt, milk, grated lime zest, lime juice, and sugar, then added liquid nitrogen. The mixture quickly transformed into creamy ice cream – a perfect treat for a hot summer’s day. The children enjoyed their well-deserved cool-down in the shade, savouring the refreshing ice cream.

Homemade lemon ice cream in seconds with the help of liquid nitrogen. Delicious! © FRM II / TUM

Homemade lemon ice cream in seconds with the help of liquid nitrogen. Delicious! © FRM II / TUM

A day full of curiosity and joy
This visit to FRM II will likely remain a cherished memory for the children of Nachbarschaftshilfe Garching e.V. They were able to play the role of young scientists, experience exciting experiments, and satisfy their curiosity with many questions. It was a thoroughly successful day, filled with learning, fun, and refreshments.