Investigating Phenomena: What Causes the Colored Solution?
Carolina Phenomenon Phenomena-driven science! Phenomena are observable, naturally occurring events that are everywhere and spark student questions and investigations. Ask students to observe the DCI-linked phenomena in the video and complete the attached student sheet prior to remote learning discussions. Observations: Carefully watch the petri dish electrolysis video. Gather all the evidence you can from […]
Greener Chemistry Labs for Good!
Safer, Engaging Chemistry Lessons Green chemistry. The term conjures different images for different people. Perhaps for the business minded, it’s chemistry dedicated to generating a lot of greenbacks (dollars). For others, maybe it’s a huge cauldron of bubbling green goo with a who-knows-what toxic vapor rising from the brew. In fact, it is neither of […]
Investigating Phenomena: Why Does the Candle Relight?
Phenomenon Driven Science Phenomena drive science! They’re observable, naturally occurring events that are everywhere and spark student questions and investigations. Ask students to observe the DCI-linked phenomenon in these videos and complete the attached student sheet prior to remote learning discussions. Observations: Carefully watch the reigniting candle video. Gather all the evidence you can from […]
Egg Vacuum Activity
If you are looking for an attention-getting demonstration of the gas laws for physical science students at any grade level, this is it. Basic equipment includes a hard-boiled egg, an Erlenmeyer flask, and burning piece of paper. Materials needed Erlenmeyer Flask, 1 L, narrow mouth Egg, hard-boiled, shell removed Paper Lighter Tongs Safety Goggles Gloves […]
Phenomena Video Gallery
What are phenomena? They’re observable, naturally occurring events that are everywhere. A sunset, your breath on a cold morning, and the fizz of baking soda and vinegar are all phenomena. Scientists build on knowledge to explain or predict phenomena; engineers design solutions to problems that arise from phenomena. And in the classroom? Phenomena are engaging […]
Make the Invisible Visible
Detecting IR Light with a Smart Phone The sun actually sends out more light than the part we see. Just past visible violet light is ultraviolet (UV) light, and just past visible red light is infrared (IR) light. Neither is visible to the human eye. Infrared light does not depend on visible light–IR light can […]
Investigating Phenomena: Why Does Hot Water Freeze Faster?
Carolina Phenomenon Phenomena-driven science! Phenomena are observable, naturally occurring events that are everywhere and spark student questions and investigations. Ask students to observe the DCI-linked phenomena in the video and complete the attached student sheet prior to remote learning discussions. Observations: Carefully watch the freezing water video. Gather all the evidence you can from the […]
Optics of the Human Eye
Background Geometric optics explains how optical devices (such as lenses and mirrors) create images by considering that light travels in rays, which are straight lines emanating from a light source or reflected from an object. A ray diagram is a useful tool in geometric optics; it describes images formed by lenses or mirrors. A ray […]
3-D Imaging: The Mystery Unlocked
Seeing the Solar System in a New Dimension Moviegoers are demanding more from their sensory experience, and 3-D viewing has become popular for many blockbuster movies. Unlocking the mystery of 3-D imaging not only spurs discussion about the greatest 3-D movies, but it also provides opportunity to discuss visual perception, optics, and colors with your […]
The Conical Pendulum
An Experiment in Circular Motion and Centripetal Acceleration The conical pendulum lab allows students to investigate the physics and mathematics of uniform circular motion. A motorized, plastic plane* is suspended from a thin string and “flies” in a circular path with a constant speed. The plane and the supporting string trace a conical pendulum. Students […]