Plant Functions
Backgrounders
Learn about the important plant functions of photosynthesis, respiration and transpiration
Jillian Croke
Pharmacist/Pharmacy Manager
Jasraj Chahal
Career Profiles
Control System Engineer
Trevor Roote
Career Profiles
Mechanical Maintainer
The Wacky History of Cell Theory
STEM Explained
It took several scientists building on each other’s discoveries to come up with Cell Theory - one of the cornerstones of biology.
How Do Plants Survive in the Desert?
STEM Explained
Plants need to exchange gases and water with their environment as part of photosynthesis. Some plant cells have evolved specifically for this purpose.
Celiac Disease: When You Really Need to Stay Gluten-Free
STEM Explained
Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder. Gluten triggers an immune system response, seriously affecting nutrition.
How can chemistry help you take care of your teeth?
STEM Explained
What are your teeth made up of? What chemistry is at work in your mouth? Why do some people get cavities even if they brush regularly?
Why do leaves change colour in the fall?
Hands-on Activities
How do the green leaves of summer change to vibrant colours in fall? Explore plant pigments in this chromatography activity.
Why Do People Get Hangovers?
STEM Explained
Why does drinking too much alcohol make people feel so bad? Read about four theories.
The Immune Response
STEM Explained
When you cut your finger, your immune system kicks in to protect you from pathogens.
The Surprising Reason You Feel Awful When You're Sick
STEM Explained
Viruses can make you feel awful! This article explains how feeling bad might be your immune system’s way of helping you heal.
Measles and Measles Prevention
STEM Explained
Learn about the measles virus, its impact and vaccination for prevention of the disease.
My Stem Cell Donation Story
STEM Explained
In April 2016, Let’s Talk Science volunteer Daniel Tarade donated stem cells to help a person who needed a stem cell transplant to survive. Learn what stem cells are, how and why people donate, and what Daniel’s experience was like.
Phages vs. Antibiotics
STEM Explained
Many doctors prescribe antibiotics to cure infections. But should they be prescribing viruses instead?