Sexual chemistry at the Science Museum

The Japanese-themed evening was aimed at broadening the museum's appeal to young adults and follows a trial in September.

Almost 3,000 visitors enjoyed free scientific experiments, including swirling pools of liquid which dissolved dry ice and an exhibit on molecular structures set to thumping techno music.

But a large percentage came for chemistry of a different kind after news spread across social networking websites that it could become one of London's biggest singles nights.

The queue snaked around the block an hour before the opening of the event, called Lates.

The singletons felt the party atmosphere conducive to striking up conversation. Their only complaint was the bright lighting.

Liz Ford, 26, and Pippa Jacks, 27, from Finsbury Park, were in a group of seven. Ms Ford, a nurse, said: "We're here because there's a far higher quality of men than you'd meet in a bar." Ms Jacks, a journalist, said: "It's the same people but in a different environment. It's not a meat market. I'm shocked at how many people are here."

There was a chance to try jumbo origami, a Rotation Station that demonstrated centrifugal force and Icy Bodies, colourful pools that dissolved solid dry ice into a gas. The Launchpad area, packed with dramatic, hi-tech experiments, was also especially popular.

Bruno Clarke, 25, a paralegal from Brixton, said: "At weekends the museum is too full of kids and coming now is much better than going to the pub."

Anthony Richards, of the Science Museum, said: "Many people come as children and then don't return for years."

The next Lates is on Wednesday 25 February. Organisers say the event could soon include adult sleepovers.