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Physical Science

Have you ever stopped and wondered WHY?

Have you ever dropped a book? What happened? Why? Have you watched a rocket go up? Why did it? Why don’t satellites come down? What is lightning? What causes it? What are the stars made of? What is a planet? What is the Van Allen Belt? Can you wear it? What causes earthquakes? What is global warming? Where do the colors of the rainbow come from? How are light and radio alike? How can we conserve energy?

Physics and the physical sciences are frequently said to be the basis of all sciences. Every minute of every day we encounter the physical sciences. And they are a big part of our economy. Understanding them is key to many careers and everyday activities.

Topics covered may include:

  • astronomy
  • magnetism
  • light and color
  • alternative energy
  • earth science
  • radiation and radioactivity
  • the use of scientific methodology

These energetic, hands-on seminars are available in formal and informal settings for students, teachers, and parents.

For more information: John Van Horn 773-768-7779 or jvanhorn@uiuc.edu

  • Alternative Energy - Fuel Cells
    Fuel cells are big news right now with the energy crunch due to soaring gasoline prices. This fact sheet provides information on how fuel cells work, and why the automotive industry is talking so much about them as an alternative to gasoline-powered vehicles.

  • National Renewable Energy Laboratory
    The National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) is the nation's primary laboratory for renewable energy and energy efficiency research and development (R&D). NREL's mission and strategy are focused on advancing the U.S. Department of Energy's and our nation's energy goals. The laboratory's scientists and researchers support critical market objectives to accelerate research from scientific innovations to market-viable alternative energy solutions.

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