The University of Queensland’s pioneering ‘pitch experiment’ holds secrets unveiled slowly over 100 years

In an era marked by groundbreaking scientific revelations, one experiment defies the rapid pace of discovery, captivating the attention of scientists and enthusiasts alike. The experiment, initiated nearly a century ago, stands as the longest-running laboratory endeavor in history, with only nine drops recorded since its inception.

In the throes of recent scientific breakthroughs, ranging from astrologists unveiling 85 potential ‘habitable’ planets within a week to health experts warning of a ‘zombie’ Arctic virus, the enduring experiment in question began its journey in 1927. Spearheaded by scientist Thomas Parnell, a professor at the University of Queensland in Australia, the experiment is centered around a substance called ‘pitch’—a derivative of tar, recognized as the world’s thickest known fluid, visually appearing in a solid state.

The pitch experiment commenced with the pouring of a freshly warmed pitch sample into a sealed funnel, left undisturbed for three years. In 1930, the neck of the funnel was trimmed, enabling the pitch to move downward into the waiting container below.

The initial decade witnessed a solitary drop descending into the dish, and astonishingly, 40 years lapsed before the next five drops followed suit. Since then, three additional drops have fallen, creating a sense of anticipation for the next, expected sometime in the 2020s.

Despite the experiment’s groundbreaking nature, its pioneer, Thomas Parnell, met a tragic end in September 1948. Parnell succumbed to hypertensive cardiorenal failure, leaving a legacy honored with an Ig Nobel Prize in physics posthumously—a parody of the prestigious award.

What adds to the mystique is that not a single individual has personally witnessed a drop fall due to various glitches, keeping the mystery alive. The pitch drop experiment continues to be on public display at the School of Mathematics and Physics on the University of Queensland’s St Lucia campus. Moreover, the experiment is broadcasted 24/7 on social media, attracting thousands of daily viewers hopeful for a glimpse of the next elusive drop.