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How would you like your steak? Vesuvius or Mt. St. Helens?

With summer upon us it’s time to break out the grill for some tasty steaks (or veggies). Of course, if you’re a science student at Syracuse University  you might take things a little further.

When first erupted from a volcanic vent, lava has a temperatures from 700 to 1,200 °C (1,292 to 2,192 °F). Since most oven broilers top out at about 575°F, lava would be pretty efficient.

The goal of the steak project was to demonstrate that lava is something to be respected but not feared.

Of course, if you are the traditional charcoal-type with your grilling, here is video of George Goble from 1995 in an experiment at Purdue University to find the fastest way to light a BBQ. His solution? He poured 3 gallons of liquid oxygen over a grill with 60 pounds of coal and a lighted cigarette.

Don’t forget to invite all of us as the Museum of the Weird to your next BBQ. We’re sure to have something to liven things up!