Articles

Issue 56

Plastic food packaging: simply awful, or is it more complicated?

Why is food sold in packaging? Do we really need it? And if so, what materials are best? These questions are more complex than they seem and the answers may surprise you.

Ages: 11-14, 14-16, 16-19;
Topics: Earth science, Engineering, Science and society, Sustainability
     

Infrared webcam hack – using infrared light to observe the world in a new way

What would the world look like if we could see infrared light? With some simple modifications, you can turn a cheap webcam into an infrared camera and find out!

Ages: 11-14, 14-16, 16-19;
Topics: Astronomy / space, Earth science, Engineering, Physics

Conservation and transfer of energy: project-based learning with Rube Goldberg machines

Silly or serious? Rube Goldberg machines are not only a lot of fun but can help students to understand the principles of conservation and transfer of energy.

Ages: 11-14, 14-16, 16-19;
Topics: Engineering, General science, Physics, STEAM

Physics with everyday objects: springy sweets, a universe in your pocket, and drawing circuits

Sweet success: everyday objects can be used to demonstrate fundamental physical principles in an engaging manner.

Ages: 11-14, 14-16;
Topics: Astronomy / space, Engineering, Physics

Household chemistry: solvents and stain removers

Clearing up chemistry: household products like nail polish remover and laundry detergent can be used to demonstrate chemical concepts like intermolecular forces and redox reactions.

Ages: 11-14, 14-16, 16-19;
Topics: Chemistry, Science and society
   

Too much of a good thing – the problem of light pollution

Blinded by the light: We rely on lights to see in the dark, but did you know that light pollution has serious environmental consequences?

Ages: 11-14, 14-16, 16-19;
Topics: Astronomy / space, Biology, Science and society, Sustainability
     

Ancient signal-sensing mechanisms based on cyclic dinucleotide molecules may lead to breakthroughs in human healthcare

From ancient bacteria to humans, cyclic dinucleotide second messenger signalling molecules are key to lifestyle regulation and disease. This makes them an attractive target for new medicines.

Ages: 16-19;
Topics: Biology, Health, Science and society