March 20, 2009 is the first day of Spring.

FACT OR FICTION

The day when vernal equinox occurs is called the first day of spring. Because of the equality of day and night on equinox, some think there is mystical balancing power on this day.  Thus, eggs will balance on their ends. I do find it interesting that even though the same celestial line-up occurs on autumal equinox, it is only on vernal  equinox (spring equinox) that egg balancing occurs.

I challenge you to discover for yourself if there is any truth in this idea. Following are clues for designing an experiment.

1. Use  fresh, uncooked eggs.

2. Hold each egg with its larger end resting on a flat surface, such as a steady table or counter top. Wait a few seconds for any movement of the egg’s fluid content to become stationary.

3. Don’t be too quick to release the egg. Instead, ever so gently remove your hands.

Does the egg stay upright? If not, repeat the procedure at least five times. Also, repeat the experiment using five or more eggs.

If any of the eggs remain upright, using a felt pen, mark an X on the balancing eggs to identify them. Return the eggs to the refrigerator and use the eggs to repeat the experiment on one or more days after the equinox. Yes, there is some change in the egg’s freshness, but refrigeration should negate this small change if the experiment is done within a few days of equinox.

Note: You can discover online the date and time of equinox. With the assistance of helpers, you can test eggs at the moment of equinox.

Equinox Model

A model may help to demonstrate how daylight and darkness can be equal on the first day of spring. For instructions to make a simple model using a Styrofoam ball and aluminum foil, see EQUINOX: MODEL.

For those inquiring minds who want to know what causes daily changes in the times of sunrise and sunset, see ORBITING.

Do you need more ideas for science investigations? If so, see Janice VanCleave’s Super Science Challenges. 

Top photo by cuellar