A HUGE effort is being made to build the world’s largest LEGO periodic table this summer.
The world record attempt will be constructed of over 8,000 LEGO bricks and will take place at The Beacon Museum, Whitehaven from August 19 – 23.
The attempt is being made to celebrate the 150-year anniversary of the invention of Russian chemist Dimitri Mendeleev’s Periodic Table.
Stephen Wilson, a local Chemical Engineer, is pioneering the attempt with the help of hundreds of supporters who will create the 118 separate elements.
Visitors to the museum are invited to contribute to the construction during special sessions, with a range of chemistry themed activities and a periodic discovery trail taking place. LEGO brick robot building is also on offer.
The museum is also enticing local businesses to get involved and sponsor an element. All monies raised will support the museum’s Quantum Leap club for children.
Stephen Wilson said: “What better way is there to celebrate the 150th anniversary of the invention of the periodic table, than to create the world’s biggest LEGO brick version.
“The periodic table was a giant step forward for science and to honour the invention, we wanted to create something just as big.
“We are in the process of applying to be certified as a Guinness World Record attempt, where adjudicators will be invited to measure our LEGO brick periodic table.
“We hope that on November 14, which is World Record Day, we can declare our table the largest ever built from LEGO bricks.
“To do that here in west Cumbria would be a fantastic achievement.”
Sessions will take place from August 19 until 23, from 1pm until 4pm each day, and are suitable for children aged six and over, who must be accompanied by an adult at all times. Entry costs £3.15 per person and pre-booking is advised.
Online booking is available via the Beacon Museum’s website www.thebeacon-whitehaven.co.uk and facebook page facebook.com/thebeaconmuseum.
This project is generously supported by the Royal Society of Chemistry.
