Hot Air

Up, up, and away! Teach your class the science behind hot air balloons when by showing them the short video segment describing the physics of how they remain in the air and travel distances through different atmospheric...

Physics Girl and Simone Giertz team up to challenge each other to answer science riddles as part of an extensive video series on physics. In a subset of three videos, both physics and electronics questions challenge viewers to apply past...

How can people control a hot air balloon? The simple simulation allows scholars to adjust the payload mass, burner, and vent position on a hot air balloon and observe the changes in velocity and altitude over time. Challenge questions...

In this science fair project, students will make hot-air balloons using a toaster and dry-cleaning bags, and see how the size of the balloon affects its flight. The Science Buddies project ideas are set up consistently beginning with an...

An illuminating activity demonstrates how interference of light waves creates a pattern. Using Plexiglas™ and construction paper, participants see rainbows appear as they twist or press against the plastic plates. After the activity, you...

Take a look at an organized physics course. The 34-section electronic textbook covers material in AP® Physics 1 and 2. Teachers use the text to supplement lectures and have the class work through the labs. Each section contains...

Let it snow, let it snow, let it ... thundersnow? Explore the thundersnow phenomenon with a video and lesson as part of the Seasonal Science series. The video describes what causes the unique weather event, explains just how rare these...

Humans aren't the only species to build structures with air conditioning—we weren't even the first! The video explains how a variety of species that live under and above ground design their structures to allow for air circulation. It...

Why do hot air balloons float? This resource from the NOVA Web site offers a series of interactive activities that illustrates the physics of hot air balloons.

Zoe and RJ are trying to photograph an egret on a lake, but they are having trouble with the lighting. Reflection, refraction, and absorption are explored through their thoughtful dialogue so that your physical scientists are illuminated...