What causes ocean currents?
Hands-on Activities
Create a model of ocean currents and learn how currents are formed.
What is an exothermic reaction?
Hands-on Activities
Things are heating up! Explore the temperature change that occurs in an exothermic reaction and the role of catalysts is this chemistry activity.
Thermopower and the Body Heat-Powered Flashlight
STEM Explained
Can your body be a source of electricity generation? Maybe, if you understand heat transfer. Explore this concept through a 2013 invention by a Canadian teen.
Temperature on Earth and on the ISS
Backgrounders
Temperature is an important part of life on Earth and life in space. This backgrounder explains what temperature is, how it affects people and how it is controlled on the International Space Station.
The Cold Pack: A Chilly Example of an Endothermic Reaction
STEM Explained
When you hurt your ankle, thermodynamics can help you heal! An endothermic reaction reduces the swelling by cooling your injury.
Tapping Underground Energy with Heat Pumps
STEM Explained
Using the heat of the Earth’s interior, you can heat your home with a ground source heat pump. This kind of heating is cheaper and better for the environment!
Temperature: On Earth and on the Space Station
Backgrounders
This backgrounder explains what temperature is, how it is measured, how it affects people, and how it is controlled on the International Space Station.
Radiation and Human Space Exploration
STEM Explained
One of the greatest hazards that humans in space face is cosmic radiation. Learn what cosmic radiation is, why it's dangerous, and ways that we are looking at protecting humans in deep space.
Is feeling always believing?
Hands-on Activities
Get your hands cold for science and explore the topic of sensory adaptation.
Keeping the Rink on Ice
STEM Explained
Learn about the chemistry of ice skating rinks, and the technology & engineering that lets us enjoy them indoors as well as outside.
How much power is generated when climbing a set of stairs?
Hands-on Activities
Put on your running shoes and sharpen your pencil! Investigate the mathematical connection between work and power in this hands-on activity.
How do an Airplane's Tires Help It Land Safely?
STEM Explained
Manufacturing and engineering airplane tires is important work! Learn how airplane tires keep the aircraft safe during takeoff and landing.
How do animals stay warm in the winter?
Hands-on Activities
Animals have some unique adaptations to stay warm. Discover what conduction of heat and insulation have to do with staying warm!
How Do Sleeping Bags Work?
STEM Explained
How do our bodies get cold? How do sleeping bags keep us warm?
Energy Efficiency at Home
STEM Explained
If you understand heat transfer, you can make lots of little changes at home to help the environment and your household’s bank account!