Our bodies and all the world around us are made of chemical elements. Scientists have now discovered over one hundred of these elements, such as oxygen, calcium, and iron. Others are extremely rare and can only be found in small quantities in laboratories. Elements can exist in pure form, but more often they are combined into compounds and mixtures. Some are metals and others are non-metals. A few are highly reactive and burst into flame when immersed in water or exposed to air. Elements with similar properties can be grouped into families, and the families arranged in a Periodic Table. After a general introduction to the chemical elements, students are challenged to play a game in which they must identify elements based on their appearances and spoken clues. The game builds skills of observation, note-taking, and use of reference data. When played in teams, the game promotes cooperation and group discussion. The exact rules are flexible and can be altered to match the skill level of the players.

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Enviro-Tacklebox: Module 5: Processes and Cycles in the Environment: Carbon: The Element of Surprise

"Carbon: The Element of Surprise" illustrates both the fast and slow track paths of carbon between living things and non-living processes.

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Inquiring Minds: Fire Questions and Answers

How do they make fireworks? Why do we use water to extinguish fires? How do fire investigators determine the cause of a fire? This program answers these questions by explaining the basic scientific principles of fire. Finally, the scene of a fire investigation is explored and the cause of a fire is determined.

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Physical Science Series: Atomic Structure and the Periodic Table

A detailed examination of the structure of the atom will expose students to subatomic particles, including protons, neutrons, and electrons. Students will be know how to compute atomic numbers and learn how isotopes relate to atomic number. They will address such topics as atomic mass, as well as the electron arrangement of different elements. This information will provide background for understanding the organization of the Periodic Table. The major groups and families of the Table will be covered. The following terminology and concepts are discussed: atomic mass, atomic number, isotope, noble gas, alkali metal, and carbon family.

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Physical Science Series: Chemical Bonding

Students will be introduced to the nature of chemical bonding and the characteristics of atoms that allow them to form bonds. The concepts of electron arrangement are highlighted via colorful animation, giving students a foundation upon which to understand bonding. Ionic bonds, covalent bonds, and metallic bonds are addressed, while real-life examples and the characteristics of each type of bond are provided. Concepts and terminology include ionization energy, electron affinity, covalent bonding, ionic bonding, metallic bonding and electronic diagrams.

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Physical Science Series: Chemical Reactions

This program explores the characteristics of chemical reactions by analyzing some simple everyday chemical reactions. It also introduces chemical equations and shows students how to balance chemical equations via colorful animation. Synthesis, decomposition, and replacement reactions are described. The energy dynamics of chemical reactions is conveyed, while explaining endothermic and exothermic reactions. Students will investigate the influence that concentration, surface area, temperature, and catalysts have on an actual reaction.

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Physical Science: Chemistry

Chemistry studies the properties of matter and how substances combine and react. Some—such as oil and water—don’t combine, while others—those that produce fire, for example—do so spectacularly. Energy from chemical reactions can result in heat, light, or motion. The chemical reaction between gasoline and heat runs the internal combustion engine. The chemical reaction between hydrogen and oxygen in a fuel cell may also power a vehicle, but with no harmful emissions. Any student who’s watched forensic TV shows knows that chemistry is used to solve crimes. In one actual case, a toy chemistry set helped solve a murder. Knowledge of chemistry explains not only how a fire burns, but how to put it out as well. Our sense of smell responds to chemical molecules in the air. Were it not for this ability our food wouldn’t taste nearly as good. But the human sense of smell pales in comparison to that of a dog’s. Able to smell 100 times better than people, dogs can even smell skin cancer.

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Physical Science: Elements

There are 91 naturally occurring elements, and another 25 that are created artificially. The atoms of an element are specific to that element, having a particular number of protons, neutrons, and electrons. Most elements combine with others to form compounds, such as water (hydrogen and oxygen). It’s the many combinations of elements that make for the variety of substances in the world. Keeping track of all the elements would be difficult were it not for the handy periodic table, which organizes the elements by atomic structure. Hydrogen, the simplest of elements, always exists as a compound. Hydrogen fuels both stars and the rockets that reach for them. The light bulb is a study in practical elements. Because tungsten has the highest melting point of any metal, it makes the perfect material for the filaments that—once electrified—glow with white-hot light. Inside the bulb’s glass is not oxygen but argon, used because it won’t react with the tungsten filament. Carbon is the stuff of diamonds and the stuff of life. The process by which diamonds are created and extracted is slow and arduous. It’s no wonder the flashy gems are so valued. In a fireworks display, the elements are showcased. From the propellants to the colors to the patterns, a fireworks show is a chemical extravaganza.

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Physical Science: Elements, Compounds, and Atoms

Through numerous examples, students will learn about elements and the chemical symbols used to represent them. They will also learn how elements combine to form compounds, as well as the difference between atoms and molecules. This video exposes students to the language of chemistry and to the written symbols which are used to represent elements and compounds. The major historical scientific contributions made to the atom are also discussed.

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Strong Chemistry

Explore the fascinating science of reactions and interactions. Four segments illustrate some of the varied ways that chemistry affects our lives.

· It's Elementary! — Chronicles the discovery of the elements and the creation of the periodic table of the elements.

· Combined Strength — Explains how elements combine to form compounds.

· Diamonds! — Reveals where diamonds come from and how they are transformed and sold.

· Inside the Sun — Looks into the interactions going on inside the sun and the NASA satellites that warn us of incoming solar radiation. By studying these different areas, students discover the many roles of chemistry in our world.
Produced by Discovery Channel School.

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Videos

Basics of Physics: Exploring Energy

Energy is very important to all that happens in our universe. It appears in many forms and is responsible for sustaining life on our planet. This program starts with an exploration of potential and kinetic energy and moves into a discussion of the main forms of energy; mechanical, heat, chemical, radiant, electrical, sound, and nuclear. In addition the program compares and contrasts nonrenewable and renewable energy resources. It also explores some of the problems and issues associated with our dependence on nonrenewable resources and encourages simple methods for conserving energy.

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Basics of Physics: Exploring Gravity

Gravity is often defined as simply the pull towards the center of the earth. That definition is completely wrong. A person standing on the moon isn’t going to think of gravity as the pull towards the center of the earth. He or she is going to think of it as the pull towards the center of the moon. Gravity is much more complex. It is a force that any two objects in the universe have towards each other. Anything made of matter has gravity. As students learn about gravity they will also explore mass, weight, weightlessness, and the law of universal gravitation. Skydivers and astronauts orbiting the earth in the space shuttle help to illustrate many of the ideas presented in this program.

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Basics of Physics: Exploring Heat

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Basics of Physics: Exploring Light and Color

We collect 95% of all our input about the world around us through our sense of sight. This program describes how our eyes work and provides information about the nature of light and color. People have been fascinated with light and eyes for a long time but their ideas have not always been correct. For instance, 2,000 years ago the Greeks thought that our eyes sent out rays of energy that struck an object and then returned to our eyes with information about the object. They thought this way because when they viewed the eyes of cats, dogs, and deer they noticed that the eyes of these animals were glowing. It was this glowing that they interpreted as a source of energy that was generated by the eyes. Today we know that our ability to see is totally dependent on reflected light. Light strikes an object and then some of it is absorbed and the rest is reflected or bounces off the object. It is this reflected light that enters our eyes.

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Basics of Physics: Exploring Sound

Sounds play an important part of our world. We can identify things from the sounds they make or we associate certain sounds with particular objects or activities. This program describes how our ears work and the range of vibrations we are able to detect. The speed of sound and light are compared. The range of sounds that various animals can make and hear are discussed as well as concepts related to echo location. Other topics include frequency, reverberation, musical instruments, and the Doppler Effect.

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Basics of Physics: Exploring the Laws of Motion

This program is dedicated to Newton’s Laws of Motion. Though Isaac Newton lived long before speedy forms of transportation he was able to formulate the three laws of motion which help to explain many of the natural phenomenon we come across on a regular basis. These three laws help us to understand why we are pulled from side to side on a speeding roller coaster or why we fall forward when the brakes of a car are suddenly applied. They help us to understand how a rocket is able to blast into space and then maneuver without brakes. Or they help us to understand the principles behind carnival and amusement park rides.

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Breaking the Silence: An Introduction to Sound

This program will help students appreciate the many different sounds in the world around them. They will understand how all sounds, from the soft rustling of leaves to the deafening clatter of a jack hammer, are caused by something vibrating. A variety of musical instruments illustrate the relationship between frequency and pitch, and students learn how to make their own simple instruments to explore how pitch can be changed to create different tones. Animation clarifies what sound waves are and how sound waves travel through the air to reach our ears. Students also learn how the ear functions to enable us to hear. Vivid examples show how sound travels through liquids and solids and how sound can echo or be absorbed. Throughout, the program illustrates key points with simple experiments that students can per-form in their own homes.

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Changes in the Properties of Matter: Physical and Chemical

Amanda’s friend Kyle is having trouble understanding matter, but she knows just the thing to do. She takes him to “A Matter of Fact,” an interesting store full of scientific things—and a peculiar storeowner to help them! Kyle learns all about the physical and chemical properties of matter, such as conductivity, magnetism, and combustibility. He finds out what mixtures and solutions are. Last, he learns about the physical and chemical changes of matter like rusting, tarnishing, and burning.

Correlations

Common Properties of Matter: Atoms, Elements, and States

Two students in search of ideas for a science project find help in a store like one they’ve never seen. Miss Dallerwag, the store owner, helps explain concepts like atoms and molecules. She also describes what mass, volume, and density are and how they are different, and the states of matter and how they change. With the insights and understanding the students gain from this experience, the science project turns out to be a big success.

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Cycle Series, The: The Carbon Cycle

All organisms must have carbon atoms to maintain their life processes. At the same time, there is a finite limit to the number of carbon atoms on the planet. This program explains the carbon cycle-the all important natural process by which carbon atoms are recycled back and forth between the living and nonliving realms of nature. The Greenhouse Effect is explained in terms of the role of photosynthesis and the unnatural imbalance of carbon dioxide in the earth's atmosphere.

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Cycle Series, The: The Nitrogen Cycle

All organisms must have nitrogen. This comprehensive video looks at the role of nitrogen and explains how it circulates back and forth from the abiotic and biotic sides of the natural world. Concepts covered include the need for nitrogen; free vs. fixed nitrogen; how nitrogen is fixed; legumes and soil bacteria; decay and denitrification; and nitrogen pollution. Students are also introduced to some of the problems that crop up when there is too much nitrogen in an ecosystem.

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Cycle Series, The: The Oxygen Story

The most common element on the planet, oxygen, is key to the survival of most organisms. Opening with a discussion of the oxygen atom, the video the explains photosynthesis as a source of atmospheric oxygen and the dynamics of oxidation reactions, the relationship between photosynthesis and respiration, and discusses how the oxygen cycle recycles oxygen atoms. Computer graphics are used to further illustrate the oxygen cycle.

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Discover Magazine: Engineering Secrets

For 1,500 years the dome of Hagia Sophia has soared above the skyline of Istanbul, Turkey. Examine the engineering brilliance of the church that withstood a destructive earthquake.

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El cohete espacial

This is the Spanish version of "The Space Shuttle."

Este video, dividido en cuatro segmentos, explora el cohete científico espacial más increíble. Aprenda sobre la historia del programa de Cohetes espaciales y cómo ha llenado una década de sueños para los ingenieros de la NASA. Vea cómo se arma el cohete en el "Vehicle Assembly Building" en el centro espacial Kenedy en Florida. También, entrénese con los astronautas a medida que aprenden a resistir la falta de gravedad y las condiciones del espacio. Producido por Discovery Channel School.

This video, divided into four segments, explores scientists’ most amazing spacecraft. Learn about the history of the space shuttle program and how it fulfilled a decade of dreams for NASA engineers. See how the shuttle is put together in the Vehicle Assembly Building at the Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Then, train with the shuttle astronauts as they learn to cope with zero gravity and the rigors of space. Produced by Discovery Channel School.

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Electricity and Magnetism: Current Electricity

Current electricity is the flow of electrons. To move from one place to another, current electricity needs what is called a “complete circuit.” The circuit is made up of a source of electrons, a path for the electrons to travel along, and a device to use the electricity.

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Electricity and Magnetism: Generating Electricity

When a magnet spins in a coil of wire or a coil of wire spins in a magnetic field, electricity is generated and begins to flow. Power plants use many different methods for spinning the magnet or wire. This program discusses the science behind generating electricity and shows the various methods used to power the generators. Solar cells, wind turbines, geothermal energy, the burning of fossil fuels, nuclear power plants, and hydroelectric plants are all presented.

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Electricity and Magnetism: Measuring and Using Electricity

Current, wattage, voltage, and amperage are all terms used to describe and measure electricity. These terms are defined and illustrated in this program. In addition, information is provided about electric meters and how the power company calculates monthly bills.

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Electricity and Magnetism: Static Electricity

Everyone has been shocked by a metal doorknob after walking across a carpet or watched while nature has put on a fantastic lightning display. These are examples of static electricity, which occurs when an electric charge builds up on an object. The charge remains on this object until there is a way for the charge to move into another object that conducts electricity.

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Electricity and Magnetism: The Magic of Magnets

This program is about magnetism and its relationship to electricity. Hans Oersted discovered that an electric current running through a wire could cause a magnetic effect. Then in 1831, Michael Faraday conducted experiments that showed that magnetism could cause a flow of electricity. Electromagnets and maglev trains are discussed.

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Electricity's Attraction

The harnessing of electricity has changed our world profoundly. Four segments explain the science of the current and touch on some of the uses that humans have devised for electricity.

· Magnetic Earth — Chronicles our discovery of magnetism and how it works.

· Electric Earth — Defines the science of electricity and explains how electric currents work.

· Ultimate Thrill: Electromagnetism at Play — Shows how electricity and magnetism produce the thrilling action of theme park rides.

· Electronics at Work — Looks at how electricity can behave and demonstrates uses in unexpected places, such as powering a man's artificial arm. Through lively action and fascinating examples, this presentation encourages students to understand the principles of electricity and consider its possible future applications.
Produced by Discovery Channel School.

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Entendamos: Electricidad

This is the Spanish version of "Understanding: Electricity."

Desde los individuos que la utilizan hasta los expertos que la controlan, este video examina el poder y propósito de la electricidad. Habla sobre cómo es generada la electricidad y enviada a las casas. También la forma en que con algunas ideas innovadoras podrán combinar la energía del cuerpo humano por los sistemas eléctricos creados por el hombre. Producido por Discovery Channel School.

From the individuals who use it to the engineers who harness it, this video examines the power and purposes of electricity. It covers how electricity is generated and delivered to homes, as well as how innovative ideas about this force may combine the electricity in our bodies with man-made electrical systems. Produced by Discovery Channel School.

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Entendamos: Magnetismo

This is the Spanish of "Understanding: Magnetism."

Sin el magnetismo no tendríamos música cómo la disfrutamos hoy. No tendríamos computadoras, vehículos de motor, brújulas o escáners de resonancia magnética. El magnetismo realmente maneja nuestro mundo actual. Aprenda cómo las fuerzas magnéticas afectan tanto a los humanos como a otros animales. Explore las funciones del magnetismo en computadoras, grabación de audio, medicina y transporte. Producido por Discovery Channel School.

Without magnetism we would not have music as we know and experience it today; we would not have computers, motor vehicles, compasses, or MRI scans. Magnetism literally shapes our modern-day world. Learn how magnetic forces were first discovered and how magnetism affects both humans and other animals. Explore the role of magnetism in computers, audio recording, medicine, and travel. Produced by Discovery Channel School.

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Entendamos: Puentes

This is the Spanish version of "Understanding: Bridges."

Hay más razones para justificar la existencia de los puentes que pasar de un lado a otro. Aquí aprenderá porqué unos son livianos y elegantes mientras que otros son estructuras gigantescas; porqué unos son arqueados y otros suspendidos en el aire; porqué unos son de concreto y otros de hierro. Póngase el casco y vea de cerca cómo logramos erguir estas estructuras enormes. Producido por Discovery Channel School.

There’s more to the “why” of bridges than getting to the other side! Here, learn why some are light and elegant, while others are massive slabs; why some are arched and some suspended; why some are concrete and others steel. Don the proverbial hard hat, too, and see up close just how we pull off putting up these enormous structures. Produced by Discovery Channel School.

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Enviro-Tacklebox: Module 5: Processes and Cycles in the Environment: Carbon: The Element of Surprise

"Carbon: The Element of Surprise" illustrates both the fast and slow track paths of carbon between living things and non-living processes.

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Exploring Gravity

This program promotes the exploration of gravity through demonstration and hands-on experimentation. Content includes gravity as it pertains to the universe as well as the earth, weight, mass, how falling objects behave. Galileo's famous falling body experiment, and more. Live-action video footage, computer graphics, and hands-on experiments and activities will help students learn and apply the laws of motion and gravity.

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Exploring Heat

This program is packed with demonstrations and simple-to-duplicate experiments. Heat is taken for granted but is essential to life. The heat energy from the sun keeps us alive. Students will find out what heat is, where it comes from, and how it is transferred from one object to another. Examples of conduction, convection, and radiation are presented and the Fahrenheit and Celsius temperature scales are compared.

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Getting to Know Electricity

Learn about electricity when Ben Franklin leaps out of the pages of a student's science textbook to help him with his homework. Using the latest computer graphics and experiments, Ben explains concepts such as lightning, static electricity, and simple, series, and parallel circuits. Discover the relationship between electricity and magnetism and learn that a variety of energy sources can produce electricity.

Correlations

Getting to Know Energy

Energy is all around you. Learn about the many different types of energy and how energy can change form. Vivid examples illustrate how potential energy and kinetic energy are defined, and how one form of energy can change into another. Discover that energy never goes away, that it can only be transferred from one form into another.

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Getting to Know Gravity

Students learn about gravity. First stop: Earth—to discover how gravity affects people and things on this planet. Next stop: outer space—to learn how gravity affects other planets. This learning journey demonstrates the effects of mass on gravity and the difference between mass and weight in a way that is easy to understand and fun to watch.

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Greatest Discoveries with Bill Nye: Physics

Classical Physics—Explores the laws of motion and the major theories behind classical physics. Thermodynamics and Electromagnetism—Examines the sciences of thermodynamics and electromagnetism. Atomic Physics—Takes a closer look at Albert Einstein’s theory of special relativity and explores the study of quantum physics. Subatomic Physics—Examines the parts of an atom and explores the nuclear age of physics.

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Heat and Temperature

Humans have always been feverish about temperature. But why? Learn how varying temperatures affect matter and see how pressure affects temperature. Find out why we need precise measurements of heat and why the Fahrenheit, Celsius, and Kelvin scales are so different. Produced by Discovery Channel School.

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History of Transportation: Airplanes

"The History of Transportation: Airplanes" is one of six volumes, and covers the evolution of human flight. From Leonardo de Vinci’s early attempts to design a flying machine, to an artist’s conception for the “sonic cruiser” of tomorrow, the sometimes dangerous and always fascinating history of the airplane is brought to life through rare photographs and archival film footage. Students learn how airplanes work, what they can do, and the effect they have on our culture. The program has been specifically developed for classroom use and is organized around established standards. It functions as a full-length program or as focused support for specific study areas.

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Inquiring Minds: Fire Questions and Answers

Correlations

Inquiring Minds: Flight Facts

This exciting program explains the basic theories of flight. The concept of lift and the physics behind both bird flight and airplane flight are explained. Viewers learn the role air-traffic control plays in keeping planes from crashing into each other.

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Inquiring Minds: Secrets of Sound

In this exciting and educational program, the inquisitive hosts discover why people's voices sound different to them when played back from a recording, why some rock concerts sound so terrible, and explore the trick of shattering glass with the human voice. Viewers will learn how humans hear, how Beethoven composed symphonies even though he was deaf, and the problems with holding a rock concert in a hockey arena.

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Inquiring Minds: Sporting Life, The

It doesn't matter if you win or lose; it's what you know about the game! In this program, students get a first-hand look at the importance of different angles and curves of various sports and what the significance is. Students will learn about the geometric role of home plate in setting up a baseball diamond, why a rough ball travels further than a smooth one, and the role of a simple technique in trying to create force.

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Invention: Elements and Compounds

Put on your lab coat and revisit some of the most important science concoctions of all time. Learn about Madame Curie’s discovery of radioactivity. See how reverse osmosis extracts salt molecules from seawater and provides us with our most important beverage — water. Dig up the roots of aspirin and find out how it relieves pain. Whether by accident or design, scientists are continually figuring out ways to manipulate nature’s elements for our own benefit.
Produced by Discovery Channel School.

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Junkyard Wars: Mechanical Monsters

Each episode takes place in a huge, specially constructed junkyard, where two teams of engineers and mechanics get 10 hours to build machines scrounged from junk. Later the teams put their contraptions to the test in a competition. Viewers watch as the teams work to meet the same challenge in different ways.

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Junkyard Wars: Air Movers

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Junkyard Wars: Cool Cars

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Junkyard Wars: Wild Watercraft

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Junkyard Wars: Wind Machines

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Laws of Motion

Isaac Newton himself shows students how gravity, friction, and inertia are related to mass, force, and momentum. Exciting graphics and re-creations allow students to see how Newton's laws of motion relate to real life. Experiments with roller blades, baseballs, and other common objects encourage students to make science exploration recreational.

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Matter and Energy

Discover how water molecules change states from solid to liquid and gas. Then learn how pressure affects the human body under water, at the highest points on Earth, and while traveling through outer space. Finally, measure heat by learning about Fahrenheit, Celsius, and Kelvin. Produced by Discovery Channel School.

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Matter and Energy: Energy From the Atom: Nuclear Power

This program takes viewers on location to learn about the tremendous energy potential of the atom. Fission and fusion are described and contrasted.

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Matter and Energy: Energy: What Is It?

This program shows that energy is responsible for the constant change in the universe. Energy is crucial to the universe and humans are totally dependent upon the use of energy. Potential and kinetic energy are described, as well as the law of conservation of mass.

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Matter and Energy: Matter: How Is It Put Together?

This program concentrates on the states of matter and how matter can change from one state to another. The three states of matter common to our experience are described. The fourth state of matter, plasma, is also presented.

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Matter and Energy: Matter: What Is It?

This program introduces students to the structure of matter. Descriptions of particle accelerators and how they are used to explore atoms help to clarify some of the latest information about the building blocks of matter.

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Out of Darkness: An Introduction to Light

How do we see colors? What makes a rainbow? How does a magnifying lens work? These are just some of the questions explored in this informative and entertaining video. All the major topics concerning light are covered, including: reflection, refraction, the spectrum and the speed of light. Students see how light has energy and how the energy of sunlight is used by plants in photosynthesis. The program explains how prisms and different types of lenses work. Key points are clarified by animated illustrations. Simple experiments are shown encouraging students to investigate the properties of light on their own and fostering curiosity and the sense that science can be fun.

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Physical Science Series: Mixtures and Solutions

This program discusses the different way in which matter is classified by using visual images from the natural world, the home, and the laboratory. Students will learn about mixtures through detailed examples of colloids, suspensions, and solutions. They will witness the creation of solutions and consider the concepts of solubility and rate of dissolving. The following terminology and concepts relating to solutions are addressed: homogeneous and heterogeneous mixtures, solute, solvent, saturated solutions, and unsaturated solutions.

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Physical Science: Chemistry

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Physical Science: Electricity

Ben Franklin didn’t discover electricity, but he was the first to realize that lightning was electricity and to name positive and negative charges. It would take another 100 years before Thomas Edison invented the light bulb. Now, there’s scarcely anything in our lives that doesn’t run on electric power—from toasters to spaceships. Even the human body depends on electrical impulses created by chemical reactions among cells to transmit impulses. We’ve also learned how to use electricity to regulate a heartbeat, help a deaf person hear, even use an artificial limb. Keeping the power flowing can be a dangerous job, as one lineman who flies to his job sites can attest. But somebody’s got to do it, as the United States produces more electric power than any other country.

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Physical Science: Elements

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Physical Science: Elements, Compounds, and Atoms

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Physical Science: Forces and Gravity

Sir Isaac Newton was quite the guy, devising the theory of gravity and specifying the three laws of motion. Forces affect everyone and everything, but no one had defined them until Newton. One of the factors that can affect objects in motion is friction. It’s easy to understand how friction between a door and its hinge can make the door more difficult to open. It’s more difficult to understand how air creates friction, called drag, and slows down everything from butterflies, to people, to airplanes. Gravity isn’t just an Earth phenomenon. It’s the force that holds stars in their galaxies and planets in orbit around stars. We’ve learned to use gravity and the forces of motion to keep satellites aloft and airplanes in the air. To do the latter, we took a lesson from the birds. The shape of an airplane wing mimics that of a bird’s wing. It’s the shape of an airfoil, and the way air moves across it causes lift. Nowhere can you be more keenly aware of gravity and motion than at an amusement park. There, gravity and centrifugal force can make for a wild ride.

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Physical Science: Heat

Retaining heat is an ongoing job for most living things. Humans do it by turning food energy into heat through metabolism. If we get too hot, we sweat to cool off. If we get too cold, we get goose bumps and shiver. Even with an internal “furnace,” the body can lose heat and plunge into hypothermia. Elephants are specially adapted to beat the heat with baggy skin that helps shed heat and huge ears that circulate blood close to the skin, cooling it off. Penguins have the opposite challenge. To stay warm in their frozen habitat, they have thick feathers that they can fluff to trap a layer of insulating air. They also huddle close to each other to take advantage of group body heat. Heat is what drives the planet’s weather. It all begins with the sun, which warms Earth’s atmosphere. The rising of lighter, warmer air and the settling of cooler, denser air is called convection. Convection creates wind and distributes heat around the planet in conjunction with the oceans. We can also harness the sun’s energy with the help of solar collectors. The Rocky Mountain Institute is a perfect example of the efficiency of solar energy. Heat is the enemy of firefighters. If they can reduce the heat of a fire, they can put it out.

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Physical Science: Light

The sun is the source of light on planet Earth. It produces electromagnetic (EM) energy that travels at light speed—186,000 miles per second. Fiber optics technology has harnessed this speed to carry voice, data, and images over glass threads faster and farther than ever before. Our eyes are natural light collectors. When light enters the eyes, it reaches the retina, where special cells turn it into electrical impulses that the brain interprets. Our eyes can only see a fragment of the electromagnetic spectrum, the part called the visible spectrum. Outside the visible spectrum are other waves of varying length and frequency, from short-waved gamma rays to radio waves, which are the longest. We need special equipment to detect EM waves outside the visible spectrum. For example, radio telescopes pick up cosmic radio waves. The Hubble Space Telescope detects infrared radiation. Some creatures make their own light, called bioluminescence. Some 500 feet beneath the ocean surface, creatures use bioluminescence to help them see, avoid predators, and communicate, among other things. Jellies put on some of the best light shows in the sea, but they don’t do it to look pretty. They rely on bioluminescence to survive, just as we rely on the sun’s light.

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Physical Science: Magnetism

Magnetism exists at the atomic level, as the movement of electrons creates magnetic fields. But it also exists on a universal scale, with stars and planets being the largest magnets. The force of magnetism coming from an object is its magnetic field. Earth’s magnetic field, or magnetosphere, shields the planet from harmful radiation and particles carried on solar winds. In the early 1800s, it was discovered that electricity produces a magnetic field. Soon inventors learned how to generate electricity with magnets, and the generator was born. We rely on magnets to store data on computer disks and videotapes, to run electric motors, and to carry radio and television signals. Animals rely on magnetism to navigate during long migrations. It’s the magnetite (lodestone) in their bodies that helps detect Earth’s magnetic field and find direction. But look out. Earth’s magnetic field isn’t always stable. From time to time it drifts, shifts, or even reverses. Flow disturbances in Earth’s molten iron core are to blame.

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Physical Science: Motion

Students developing solar cars have the laws of physics and motion fresh in their minds as they work to create lightweight cars that slip through the air, glide on smooth tires, and don’t run out of energy. These cars run on solar power that creates electricity to run a small motor. Unlike the cars, a rollercoaster gets going with the help of mechanical energy in the form of a motorized chain that hauls the coaster up the first big hill. From there, momentum and kinetic energy take over. Physics is also at work when skateboarders fly through the air in spectacular leaps and spins. Why doesn’t the board go flying off when they jump? It’s all physics. People tried to emulate the flight of birds for centuries. We finally got it right when we learned to make a wing in an airfoil shape that would provide the lift necessary to get off the ground. That same shape helps a boomerang sail away—and come back—thanks to the physics. Fish move through water as easily as we move through air. Building robotic fish helps scientists learn how they do this.

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Physical Science: Nuclear Energy

Stars are natural nuclear reactors. At their cores, the intense heat and pressure cause hydrogen atoms to collide and fuse to form helium. The energy from this fusion is what fuels the star. The sun is no different. Without its nuclear energy, we wouldn’t exist. People have also been able to create nuclear energy through fission. In fission, the nuclei of atoms are split, which releases great amounts of energy. The trouble lies in controlling such reactions. Dangers from uncontrolled nuclear reactions include devastation from the resulting explosions and toxic radiation. Even though nuclear science can be used for good purposes, such as energy or medicine, is carries great risks. Scientist Marie Curie helped pioneer the study of radiation, but she died of leukemia caused by its toxic properties. There is no more obvious example of the danger nuclear science poses than the mushroom cloud generated by an atomic bomb blast. There is no question that nuclear submarines are superior to diesel subs.

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Physical Science: Sound

Sound is energy that travels in waves. Our ears are capable of receiving the waves and transmitting them through the eardrum and ear bones to the cochlea, which converts the vibrations into electrical impulses that the brain can interpret. People with hearing loss may benefit from a cochlear implant, a device that “assists” the ear electronically. Sound is measured in decibels—40 decibels is normal talking volume, while 120 is the sound of a plane taking off. Scientists have found ways to get rid of noise by using sound waves to mirror the noise waves and cancel them out. You wouldn’t want to cancel the sounds of a good pianist. When keys strike and vibrate strings inside a piano, the result is beautiful music. Sound is far more than music to many animals. For elephants, infrasound is a way to communicate across long distances. Bats use high-frequency sounds in echolocation. Their clicks bounce off objects, helping them navigate in darkness and find prey in the form of flying insects. Scientists suspect that bats may effectively be able to slow down time in order to process the echoes returning from their clicks. Now that’s a superpower.

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Physical Science: States of Matter

Everything is matter. And all matter comes in one of four states: solid, liquid, gas, or plasma. The least well-known state—plasma—occupies most of the visible universe, more than 99 percent, in fact. Einstein’s famous equation E=mc2 shows that matter can be converted into energy and energy into matter. Even air is matter. It exists as a gas. This can be seen when a hot-air balloon lifts off the ground. The hot air trapped inside the balloon, being less dense and lighter than the surrounding air, rises, taking the balloon with it. Superheat a gas and it becomes plasma. All stars and interstellar gases are plasma. On Earth, we can see plasma in lightning and neon lights. Sometime between 10 and 20 billion years ago, all matter and the universe itself was born out of the energy of the big bang. Scientists are trying to understand how matter formed using particle accelerators that cause atoms to collide. The energy and particles created by the collisions may offer clues to the universe’s beginnings. To see the other three states of matter in action, observe the only substance that can exist in all three states, water.

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Physical Science: Structures

Structures such as suspension bridges, skyscrapers, and tunnels are marvels of engineering, but sometimes the engineering isn’t quite so marvelous. Such was the case with the Tacoma-Narrows Bridge, which couldn’t take the force of high winds. Italy’s famous Tower of Pisa tilts because it was built on soft ground. Engineers and architects face many challenges when designing structures. The structures have to withstand the elements, bear weight, and distribute energy without moving too much or too little. Planners even have to account for seasickness when designing skyscrapers! Some tunnels have to hold up under the weight of an ocean. It’s truly amazing that buildings, bridges, and tunnels can do what we need them to. What’s even more amazing is that 5,000 years ago the Egyptians built the pyramids with such precision. To this day, we don’t know how they accomplished it.

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Physics of Motion, The

Learn about the physics of motion by analyzing roller coasters. And see other examples of forces and motion.

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Power Up: Energy in Our Environment

Saving the earth is or should be a number one priority in our lives. This full motion video focuses on various issues relating to energy in the environment. It concentrates primarily on the greenhouse effect, air pollution, acid rain and energy conservation. Students will see how we use and rely on energy in our daily lives, sources of energy, what fossil fuels are and how burning fossil fuels contribute to air pollution, smog, acid rain and the greenhouse effect. In addition, the video addresses some things society can do to lessen the effects of energy consumption. Students will also see how they personally can help solve environmental problems related to energy through conservation. 24 minutes.

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Roller Coaster Physics

Strap in and take some terrifying turns on the scariest amusement park attractions in the world. We'll tell you about the wonderful world of applied physics to make you feel more comfortable. Roller coasters are so much fun thanks to friction, potential energy, gravity, and acceleration.
Produced by Discovery Channel School.

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Science Investigations Physical Science: Investigating Chemical Reactions

What Is a Scientific Investigation?; How Do Scientists Work?; Chemical Reactions; Chemical Bonds; Acids and Bases; Carbon Chemistry

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Science Investigations Physical Science: Investigating Motion, Forces and Energy

scientific ivestigation, scientific inquiry, scientific method, scientific measurement, distance, speed, velocity, acceleration, mass, Wright Brothers, invention, observation, gravity, simple machines

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Science Investigations Physical Science: Investigating Sound and Light

This library of videos contains seven segments on the movement of sound and light, as well as their technical applications. • What Is a Scientific Investigation? • What Are Scientific Measurements? • The Scientific Method • Properties of Waves • Sound and Navigation • A Ship’s Radio Lifeline • All About Telescopes

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Size and Scale: Scale of Flight

Most species on this planet fly. In fact, it is Mother Nature’s most efficient way to get around. How do these creatures manage to get off the ground and stay in the air? It depends on what size they are. Produced by Discovery Channel School.

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Space Exploration: The Rockets

Using archival film, NASA footage, and computer graphics, this fascinating video describes the development of the rocket from the early Chinese rocket arrow to the space shuttle of today. Robert Goddard's work with liquid fuel rockets and the German V-2 rockets are discussed and shown. The early rocket car, and the rocket bicycle, are shown. The V-2 rockets became the basis of the American and Russian space programs, which evolved into a space race. Major historic accomplishments are shown as the video chronologically moves to the greatest achievement of all-landing a person on the moon.

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Space Shuttle, The

This video, divided into four segments, explores scientists’ most amazing spacecraft. Learn about the history of the space shuttle program and how it fulfilled a decade of dreams for NASA engineers. See how the shuttle is put together in the Vehicle Assembly Building at the Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Then, train with the shuttle astronauts as they learn to cope with zero gravity and the rigors of space.
Produced by Discovery Channel School.

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Story of the Wright Brothers, The: From Kites to Kitty Hawk

How was it that the Wright Brothers were successful when so many others failed? Their success was based on teamwork, scientific investigation, and a tremendous desire to accomplish what they set out to do. They analyzed the problems of flight and decided there were four problems to be addressed. The first was to learn to fly gliders safely. The second problem was to devise a means of control. The craft would need to have a means for controlling its side to side and up and down movement. Wing design was the next problem. The wings must be strong enough to support a motor and pilot and yet shaped to create as much lift as possible. The fourth problem had to do with the power system. The motor and propeller would have to be very efficient and lightweight. While other scientists of the time were trying to fly by building an airplane around the motor, the Wright brothers concentrated on finding a glider that worked well and then added a power plant later. They concentrated on the problems of lift, control, wing design, and structure before ever considering a motor.

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Story of the Wright Brothers, The: The Dynamics of Flight

Did you ever watch a huge commercial jet rush down a runway and gracefully lift into the air? We all have seen jet airliners flying high over head. They look real small and appear to be barely moving. But that’s because they are so far away. Have you ever considered that there are hundreds of people and all their luggage inside that jet? How can the plane which weighs so much fly? To understand how airplanes fly we must consider a number of related ideas and scientific principles. There are four forces acting on an airplane.

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Strong Chemistry

Explore the fascinating science of reactions and interactions. Four segments illustrate some of the varied ways that chemistry affects our lives.

· It's Elementary! — Chronicles the discovery of the elements and the creation of the periodic table of the elements.

· Combined Strength — Explains how elements combine to form compounds.

· Diamonds! — Reveals where diamonds come from and how they are transformed and sold.

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Understanding Magnetism

Without magnetism we would not have music as we know and experience it today; we would not have computers, motor vehicles, compasses, or MRI scans. Magnetism literally shapes our modern-day world. Learn how magnetic forces were first discovered and how magnetism affects both humans and other animals. Explore the role of magnetism in computers, audio recording, medicine, and travel.

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Understanding: Electricity

From the individuals who use it to the engineers who harness it, this video examines the power and purposes of electricity. It covers how electricity is generated and delivered to homes, as well as how innovative ideas about this force may combine the electricity in our bodies with man-made electrical systems.
Produced by Discovery Channel School.

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Understanding: Fire

Fire, one of the four elements of nature, seems elementary: Add a spark to fuel and keep it going with a steady supply of oxygen. But there’s much more to know about one of the most powerful tools on Earth. Discovered 9,000 years ago, fire has been invaluable to both nature and technology.
Produced by Discovery Channel School.

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Understanding: Flight

Explore the secrets of travel from birds to human flight. Demystify the art, technique, and skill of flying through graphics that demonstrate its four principles: thrust, lift, weight, and drag. Actor John Travolta — a pilot since age 16 — and author Tom Clancy discuss their love of flying.

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Ups and Downs of Technology, The

Physics is the science of motion and energy. Four segments use familiar examples to show the laws of physics at work in our everyday lives.

· Roller Coaster Physics — Shows how roller coasters rely on the laws of physics to entertain people.

· Preventing Disaster — Investigates how engineering practices can cause or prevent fires, sinking ships, and collapsing buildings.

· The Planet Electric — Explores how electricity is generated.

· Constant Motion — Examines how gravity and friction affect moving objects. This presentation illustrates some of the many ways we study and use this dynamic science.
Produced by Discovery Channel School.

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Vida y trabajo en el espacio

This is the Spanish version of "Living and Working in Space."

La vida en el espacio ya no es ciencia-ficción. Descubra los requerimientos de los astronautas en la vida real y la tecnología que utilizan y mantienen.

· Astronautas – viaje en el trasbordador espacial y descubra cómo es un día en la vida de un astronauta. Presencie de cerca un lanzamiento del trasbordador. Aprenda qué se necesita para ser astronauta.

· Carga - ¿Quiere esconderse entre la carga e ir de polizón al espacio? Aprenda en que consiste esa carga y cuanto vale una misión al espacio.

· Satélites - ¡Es un pájaro, es un avión, es un... satélite! Descubra cómo los satélites permanecen en órbita. ¿Cómo funciona en realidad esta tecnología común? Producido por Discovery Channel School.

Living in space isn’t science fiction any more. Find out about the real life requirements of astronauts and the technology they use and maintain.

· Astronauts — Ride shotgun on the space shuttle and discover what a day in the life of an astronaut is like. Get an insider’s view of a shuttle launch. Learn what you need to be an astronaut.

· Cargo — Want to hide among the cargo and hitch a ride into space? Find out exactly what that cargo is and how much a space mission costs.

· Satellites — It’s a bird, it’s a plane, it’s a… satellite! Discover how satellites stay in orbit. How does this now commonplace technology actually function?
Produced by Discovery Channel School.

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Work, Energy, and the Simple Machine: Compound Machines

This program shows how the six simple machines can be found in use in very complicated machines. The six simple machines are the basis for all other machines. Many examples of compound machines, machines that use two or more simple machines, are presented and analyzed.

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Work, Energy, and the Simple Machine: Inclined Plane, Wedge, Screw

Students will see and learn how these three simple machines are closely related. Common everyday situations are used to illustrate and demonstrate the widespread use of these machines.

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Work, Energy, and the Simple Machine: Lever, Wheel and Axle, Pulley

Students are introduced to these three simple machines in the same video lesson so they can see how the machines are related. The principles behind each of these simple machines are illustrated and demonstrated with common situations and tools.

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Work, Energy, and the Simple Machine: Work and Energy

To understand how the simple machines are helpful to humans we must first understand principles associated with work and energy. Work to a scientist is only accomplished when an effort is used to move an object that has resistance. Potential and kinetic energy are discussed as well as forces that impede the motion of objects such as friction.

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