Ever wondered how your cat can be dead and alive at the same time, or whether there could be a version of you with tentacles editing a magazine in a parallel universe? (Rest assured, Plus is currently tentacle-less and in this universe.)

Science Brainwaves, a student-led organisation from the University of Sheffield, with the aim of bringing all things science to the masses, present this year’s Christmas Lecture. Dr Paul Stevenson will discuss weird physics — the brain contorting conundrums that give us lasers, phone apps, MRI scanners and light switches.

The talk will take place on the 17th December at 6pm in the grade II listed St George’s Lecture Theatre in the heart of the city, followed by a festive reception where the University’s physics department will provide demos and other activities for the public to get involved in. The event is free to attend and is suitable especially for families with children from 8+. To register for tickets visit www.sciencebrainwaves.com/events.

To get in the mood, you can read more about weird physics on Plus.