The Vermont Chapter of Sigma Xi (the scientific honor society) and Norwich University host Dr. Diandra Leslie-Pelecky, author of The Physics of NASCAR and Professor of Physics at the University of West Virginia, for a talk titled:

"The Science of Speed: Faster, Stronger and Safer" Wed., Oct. 9, 7:00-8:00 pm in Cabot 85

A group of racecars piloted by the best drivers in NASCAR enter Turn 4 at Charlotte Motor Speedway, going almost 200 mph. Without warning, one of the cars wiggles and then slams into the wall. None of the cars touched. There were no engine failures and no flat tires. So what happened?

This is the question that took Dr. Leslie-Pelecky from the lab to the racetrack, speeding around Texas Motor Speedway (she calls it “research”) in an effort to understand why going fast is so hard. In her quest, she met the mechanical engineers, aerodynamicists, chemical engineers, and physicists who have become critical participants in the high-stakes world of motorsports. Come and learn about where the science hits the road.

Dr. Leslie-Pelecky's book is available at the Norwich Bookstore and she will be available for a book signing immediately after her talk.