The Material World

Could we use radio waves to charge electrical technologies in the future?

Things are heating up! Explore the temperature change that occurs in an exothermic reaction and the role of catalysts is this chemistry activity.

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.

6 images of some instruments such as clinical and baking thermometers that have been designed to measure temperature for specific purposes

When you hurt your ankle, thermodynamics can help you heal! An endothermic reaction reduces the swelling by cooling your injury.

Radiocarbon dating is a method of radiometric dating. Learn how archaeologists use carbon isotopes to find the age of organic materials at archaeological sites.

The life and death of stars form the chemical elements that make up Earth, making stars critical to life as we know it.

The telegraph works by transmitting signals through an electrical circuit. Learn more and print your own telegraph key using this 3d model of a real artefact.

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.

Learn about the organic compounds that make up lipstick as well as about some of the chemistry that goes into this popular cosmetic.

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.

In a few decades, some of the electricity you use might be generated by bacteria.

How do magnetic fields help you get down safely from the top of a drop tower ride? Learn how electromagnetic induction works at the amusement park.

Put on your running shoes and sharpen your pencil! Investigate the mathematical connection between work and power in this hands-on activity.

Hydrogen’s tendency towards combustion is what makes it both a dangerous chemical element and a useful energy source.