Masterclass: Chance Favors the Prepared Mind - The Story of Liquid Crystals and Accidental Discoveries That Changed the World

What if the technology behind your smartphone, TV, or laptop was the result of a "happy accident"? This MasterClass invites students aged 15-17 to explore the fascinating story of liquid crystals—a serendipitous discovery that transformed how we communicate, work, and entertain ourselves. Through this session, participants will: Uncover the Science of Liquid Crystals: Learn how a 19th-century scientist stumbled upon a mysterious "cloudy liquid" while studying cholesterol, leading to the discovery of a new state of matter. See How Chance Shapes Innovation: Understand how unplanned discoveries in basic research have far-reaching impacts on our daily lives. Real-World Scenarios: Pose hypothetical "what if" questions about other accidental discoveries in history (e.g., penicillin, X-rays) to encourage creative thinking. Engage in Real-Life Applications: Dive into the role of liquid crystals in LCD technology and imagine how today’s “chance discoveries” could lead to tomorrow’s breakthroughs. Reflect on the Value of Curiosity: Discuss the importance of asking questions, embracing failure, and being ready for the unexpected in science and beyond. This session will inspire young minds to value curiosity, persistence, and basic research while giving them a glimpse of the transformative power of scientific discovery.