Science in everyday life
Physiology: molecules and mechanisms
Flowers bloom, birds fly, and our hearts beat. From microscopic interactions like oxygen exchange to visible motions such as walking, physiology explains it all!
Air pollution and children
Air quality plays a large part in the development of a healthy respiratory system. Unfortunately, air pollution is a growing problem and is a factor in about 7 million deaths across the world each year.
What is… fermentation?
Fermentation has been used to make foods and drinks for thousands of years. This is despite the fact that the science behind the process was only recently discovered. Common fermented products include chocolate, coffee, soy sauce, and yogurt, among others.
The chemistry of cooking
While cooking, you use chemistry constantly, likely without even knowing it! For example, water must be boiling before pasta can be cooked in it. What other instances of chemistry are there in cooking? How is cooking chemistry relevant to you?
Symbiosis: natural synergy
Some people get along well, while others don’t. Similar relationships exist amongst other living things. These interactions, called symbiosis, range from mutually beneficial to parasitic.
Are cloth masks useful?
With the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic, masks have become more commonplace in most countries. We are here to inform you on what existing science says regarding the efficacy of cloth masks!
My simple machines
Physics can be difficult, but a relatively simple concept in physics are the simple machines. Simple machines allow humans to complete tasks with less effort.
What is… density?
You’ve probably noticed that some things float on water and others sink. This is due to the relative densities of the objects and the liquid they are immersed in. Density is defined as the mass per volume of a substance.
Talking to children about race
Diversity is an important part of the human experience. Why should and how can you teach your child about race and racism?
The thunderstorm tell-all
Many dogs become frightened during thunderstorms – and their owners might, too! Where do thunderstorms come from? And why do they make lightning and thunder?
How do soaps work?
Washing your hands thoroughly requires soap and water. But how does soap keep your skin clean and free of germs? There is a bit of chemistry underlying how soaps work.
Do you recycle correctly?
Depending on where you live and your personal habits, you may or may not recycle. But why is it important to recycle? Why isn’t recycling more prevalent?
Eating the rainbow
You’re likely familiar with the fact that a varied diet of fruits and vegetables is recommended for most people. But do you know what helpful compounds are unique to plants? Why is it important to eat a rainbow of foods?
What is… thermodynamics?
Some people have a hard time with calculus, whereas for others it’s a breeze. Another topic that probably elicits feelings of fear is thermodynamics. But we have simplified basic thermodynamics for you!
The dirty immune system
Some toddlers love to play in the mud, usually despite the despair of their parents. But being exposed to dirt at an early age actually appears to be beneficial to the immune system.