Madison Reporter

As Halloween approaches, experts from the University of Wisconsin–Madison are offering insights into various aspects of the holiday, from pumpkins to candy and weather.

Irwin Goldman, a professor of horticulture and plant breeding expert, is available to discuss what makes for the perfect pumpkin during this season. Those interested can reach him at ilgoldma@wisc.edu.

For those curious about the science behind candy, Richard Hartel provides expertise. He teaches courses on candy, including a "Candy School" held every July. Hartel is ready to explain the scientific aspects of our favorite Halloween treats. He can be contacted at rwhartel@wisc.edu.

This year's Halloween weather is notably warm, with temperatures reaching into the 70s and 80s in late October. Jonathan Martin, a professor in the Atmospheric and Oceanic Science Department at UW–Madison, attributes this warmth to it being the second warmest September-October period since 1938. Martin is available to discuss these unusual conditions and provide a forecast for trick-or-treating weather. His contact is jemarti1@wisc.edu.

Jack Nitschke offers insight into why people enjoy being scared by horror movies during Halloween. As an expert on the neuroscience of emotion, he can explain the psychological appeal of fear. Nitschke can be reached at jnitschke@wisc.edu.

For more information or additional experts on current events, visit the UW–Madison Experts Database.