Gravitational Response Test

Test Information:
Test Subject: Standard Twinkie
Control Subject: Standard Twinkie
Test Location: 1st through 6th floor, Lovett College, Rice University
Start Time: Monday, May 1, 1995 14:21 CST
Stop Time: Monday, May 1, 1995 14:37 CST

Test Description:
To test the gravitational response of a Twinkie, one Twinkie was taken to the 6th floor of Lovett and released over the edge (see Fig. 1). This process was repeated twice on the same Twinkie.

Observations:
Figure 1:Twinkie scientist Chris Gouge observes a graphically- enhanced Twinkie respond to gravity around the 4th floor
Before Test:
Before the test, both the control and the experimental Twinkies appeared within the range that would be described as a "normal" Twinkie. It should be noted that there was a high wind during the test.

Immediate Results:
As soon as the Twinkie was released, it began to fall. It fell until it hit the ground. Upon impact, there was a loud "splut" sound (see Fig. 2). A small crack opened on one side of the Twinkie (see Fig. 3). There was no noticeable change in
Figure 2:The experimental Twinkie as it lay after the gravitational response. Creamy filling marks on the sidewalk may account for the "splut" sound
the control.

The Twinkie was then dropped again. The same "splut" sound was heard on impact. The fissure in the side of the Twinkie widened. Again, there was no noticeable change in the control.

Long Term Results:
The Twinkie was observed for a period of time after impact. There was no additional change in the experimental Twinkie or the control Twinkie once impact had occurred.

Conclusions:
Twinkies are affected by gravity. However, their reaction upon impact is much smaller than expected, and they maintain a good deal of structural integrity from such a lofty fall.

Possible Applications:
If one needed to jump off of the sixth floor of a building and land safely, one could either pad the ground or one's self with Twinkies; although the Twinkies would likely not
Figure 3:Chris Gouge's index finger (far right) deftly singles out the experimental Twinkie (right), characterized by a small fissure.
survive the fall, they would break one's fall so that one could escape unharmed. Note: we have not experimentally verified this application, and we do not suggest you do so. In the event you do not heed our warning, however, could you tell us how it went? Thanks.


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Last edited June 28, 1999