Kōrero: Physics, chemistry and mathematics

Ernest Rutherford carried out experiments on the magnetisation of iron by high-frequency discharges in the basement room at Canterbury College, Christchurch. He performed these experiments in 1893 as part of his work for an MA. The room, actually a cloakroom under a lecture theatre, was suitable because of its concrete floor, which prevented vibrations that might have upset the apparatus. The room later became known as 'Rutherford's den'. In later years the den was open to visitors as part of the Christchurch Arts Centre. In 2014 it was closed for repairs after the February 2011 earthquakes.