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July 13, 2007

Strange But True!

Q. When might the simple act of reaching out and handing a package of gum to another person get both of you killed fast? DON'T TRY THIS!

A. In a classic 1953 story, a professor was driving slowly when two friends pulled up alongside, matching his speed, says Jearl Walker in “The Flying Circus of Physics.” The friend in the passenger side reached out to hand a package of gum to the professor. But when the two hands got within an inch or two of touching, a terrific discharge occurred between them that was momentarily disabling. “Luckily, the professor did not veer into the second car before he could regain his senses and the control of his car.”


 
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