Geology will rock the NU State Museum during the Dec. 18 Sunday with a Scientist program at Morrill Hall. The family-friendly program, offered from 1:30 to 4:30 p.m., will explore rocks and minerals through hands-on activities led by scientists from UNL and the University of Maine, and members of the Lincoln Gem and Mineral Club.

Questions that will be answered include the difference between a rock and a mineral; and what causes rocks/minerals to glow, crystallize and take on vibrant colors. Visitors are encouraged to bring a rock or mineral to be identified. Participants will discover how they encounter minerals in daily life.

The event will be led by Matt Joeckel, a UNL geologist; Ed Grew, a research professor from the University of Maine in Orono; and Priscilla Grew, director of the NU State Museum and professor of earth and atmospheric sciences.

Sunday with a Scientist is a series of presentations that highlight the work of UNL scientists, while educating children and families on a variety of topics related to science and natural history. Presenters share scientific information in a fun and informal way through demonstrations, activities, or by conducting their science on site. Sunday with a Scientist programs are on the third Sunday of each month.

For more information, go to www.museum.unl.edu.