Fusion and fission are two concepts that high school students can explore to understand how matter can be converted into energy. Both processes use the famous equation E=mc2, which tells us that matter can turn into energy and that missing mass multiplies by c squared to become E. Fission is the process of splitting atoms apart, while fusion is the process of slamming hydrogen ions together to create helium. Fission is easier to control, which is why it is used in existing nuclear power plants. However, it creates toxic and radioactive by-products. Fusion is cleaner and more powerful, but much more difficult to achieve. Scientists are trying to control the fusion reaction and extract its energy, but this requires a lot of energy. Learning about these concepts can help students understand the basics of nuclear physics and the potential of energy production.

Quantum physics is the fascinating field that seeks to answer the fundamental questions about the world around us. It delves into the behavior of matter and energy at the subatomic level, which is beyond our everyday experience but underlies all physical phenomena. In the early 20th century, quantum mechanics was developed, which has since revolutionized our understanding of the universe. It is now considered one of the two pillars of modern physics, alongside the theory of relativity. The word "quantum" comes from the Latin word "quantus," which means "how much." But what makes quantum physics so mind-bending is the incredible phenomena it reveals. For instance, did you know that a quantum computer can perform certain types of calculations exponentially faster than a classical computer? Or that particles can become instantaneously connected through a phenomenon called quantum entanglement, regardless of their distance apart? Richard Feynman, one of the most famous physicists of the 20th century, once said, "I think I can safely say that nobody understands quantum mechanics." Despite its enigmatic nature, quantum physics has made many contributions to modern technology, including lasers, transistors, and MRI machines. Some key concepts and figures in the field include Max Planck, who was the first to propose that energy is quantized, meaning it comes in discrete units rather than a continuous flow. Erwin Schrödinger's wave equation is used to describe the behavior of quantum particles, such as electrons. Werner Heisenberg's uncertainty principle states that the more precisely the position of a particle is known, the less precisely its momentum can be known. Richard Feynman's diagrams are used to visualize and calculate interactions between particles. Even Stephen Hawking, known for his work on black holes and cosmology, made significant contributions to quantum physics as well, such as the idea of "Hawking radiation" emitted by black holes. If you're intrigued by the world of quantum physics and want to learn more, there are plenty of ways to explore the topic further. There is no limit to what you can discover when you follow your curiosity and explore the wonders of the world around us.

Perovskite solar cells are a game-changer in the world of renewable energy. These cells are made from a material called perovskite, which is a type of mineral that can be easily manufactured and is highly efficient at converting sunlight into electricity. Did you know that perovskite solar cells have been shown to be more efficient at converting sunlight into electricity compared to traditional silicon solar cells? In just a few short years, the efficiency of perovskite solar cells has increased from just 3.8% to over 25%! This rapid improvement is thanks to the work of leading academics in the field, including Professor Henry Snaith of the University of Oxford, who was one of the first researchers to demonstrate the potential of perovskite solar cells. Not only are perovskite solar cells more efficient, they are also much cheaper to produce than traditional silicon solar cells. This means that they have the potential to make renewable energy more accessible to people all over the world. So what makes perovskite solar cells so special? It all comes down to their unique structure. Unlike silicon solar cells, which have a rigid structure, perovskite solar cells have a flexible structure that allows them to absorb more light. This flexibility also means that they can be made into different shapes and sizes, making them easier to integrate into a variety of applications, from rooftop solar panels to portable solar chargers. In conclusion, perovskite solar cells are a promising technology that has the potential to revolutionize the renewable energy industry. With their high efficiency and low cost of production, they are poised to make a significant impact on the world's energy supply and help to combat climate change. Whether you are interested in science, engineering, or the environment, there is something for everyone in the world of perovskite solar cells. So why not take a closer look and discover the possibilities for yourself?

The Sun's magnetic fields may seem distant and unimportant to our daily lives, but they actually have a huge impact on Earth. Understanding the science behind solar flares and coronal mass ejections can not only satisfy your curiosity about the world around you, but also help you prepare for potential disruptions to power and communication. Even better, studying these concepts can lead to the awe-inspiring experience of witnessing the stunning auroras, a natural phenomenon caused by the interaction of charged particles with Earth's magnetic field. Don't miss out on the chance to explore these fascinating topics and discover the wonders of our universe.

Video games have come a long way since Pong, and so has the physics behind them. From Mario's jumps to Lara Croft's acrobatics, video game physics brings virtual worlds to life. But how do video game designers make physics so realistic and fun? In the past, video game physics was based on predetermined rules that were programmed into the game. But with the advent of new physics engines, video game designers can now create more realistic environments and objects that react to the player's actions. For example, the popular game series, Grand Theft Auto, uses a physics engine that simulates real-world car collisions and explosions. The physics of video games is not only about creating realistic environments and objects but also about making the game mechanics fun and engaging. For example, the popular game series, Angry Birds, uses physics to create a satisfying feeling when players launch birds at structures and watch them collapse. Similarly, the game Portal uses physics to create unique puzzles where players must use a "portal gun" to manipulate the environment and reach their goal. Physics concepts such as momentum, force, and energy play a big role in video game design. For example, the popular game series, Halo, uses physics to create realistic bullet trajectories and grenade explosions. In addition, video game designers must also take into account the effects of gravity, friction, and air resistance when creating realistic movements and physics-based interactions. One of the leading academics in the field of video game physics is Dr. David Baraff, a researcher at Pixar Animation Studios. Baraff's work has contributed to the development of physics engines used in video games and animation. Another notable figure in the field is Dr. Richard Feynman, a Nobel Prize-winning physicist who inspired the physics-based puzzle game, Quantum Conundrum. In conclusion, the physics of video games is an exciting and growing field that combines science and fun in a unique way. Whether you're interested in game design, animation, or just curious about the science behind your favorite games, the physics of video games is a topic worth exploring.

Are you passionate about the environment and looking for a career that can make a positive impact on the planet? Look no further than a career in renewable energy! Renewable energy is the future of energy production and involves harnessing the power of natural resources such as wind, solar, hydro, and geothermal energy. As a renewable energy professional, you will be at the forefront of the fight against climate change, working to reduce our reliance on fossil fuels and create a more sustainable future. In this exciting and dynamic field, you will have the opportunity to work on cutting-edge projects that can have a real impact on the world. From designing and building wind turbines and solar panels to developing new energy storage solutions, the possibilities are endless. As a renewable energy professional, your duties may include conducting research, designing and implementing new technologies, managing projects, and working with clients to develop sustainable energy solutions. There are also many different areas of specialization within the field, such as solar energy, wind energy, and bioenergy. To get started in this exciting field, you will typically need a degree in a relevant field such as engineering, environmental science, or physics. Some popular undergraduate programs and majors include renewable energy engineering, sustainable energy systems, and environmental studies. In addition to technical skills, there are also several personal attributes that can be helpful in this field, such as a passion for sustainability, strong problem-solving skills, and the ability to work well in a team. The job prospects in renewable energy are excellent, with many exciting opportunities available in both the public and private sectors. Some notable employers include Tesla, Google, and the National Renewable Energy Laboratory. So if you're looking for a career that can make a real difference in the world, consider a career in renewable energy. With the potential to work on cutting-edge projects and help create a more sustainable future, it's a career that can truly be fulfilling and rewarding.

Lightning is a fascinating natural phenomenon that has puzzled scientists for over 260 years. While the basics of lightning formation are known, scientists still don't fully understand how it forms. Lightning is like a zap of static electricity but on a much larger scale. It occurs when positive and negative charges build up in storm clouds, and a spark jumps between these areas. Learning about the science behind lightning formation can be intellectually stimulating and practically useful, as it can help us understand and prepare for thunderstorms. While there are still many unanswered questions, exploring this topic through reading and self-directed projects can be an exciting endeavor for high school students curious about the world around them.

Researchers have powered a microprocessor for a year using blue-green algae and ambient light! This system, comparable in size to an AA battery, has the potential to be a reliable and renewable way to power small devices. The growing Internet of Things needs power, and this system generates energy instead of simply storing it like batteries. The algae system is made of common and recyclable materials, making it easily replicable.

In a small village in Kenya, a man named John Magiro took it upon himself to bring electricity to his community. Frustrated with living without power, John used his ingenuity to build a generator out of scrap metal and old bicycle parts, providing his neighbors with the gift of light. Thanks to John's determination, schoolchildren now have electric light to study by, and families can enjoy the safety and convenience of reliable electricity. This inspiring story highlights the importance of innovation and self-direction, and the potential for individuals to make a significant impact in their communities. By exploring academic concepts such as engineering, physics, and renewable energy, students can develop the skills and knowledge necessary to create positive change in the world. By taking inspiration from John Magiro's example, students can be empowered to become innovative problem-solvers and make a meaningful difference in their own communities.

As solar and wind become more dominant, flow batteries offer a promising solution for storing renewable energy. Learn how they work and their benefits and challenges.

As our understanding of the climate crisis deepens, it becomes increasingly important to explore non-fossil fuel sources of energy. Nuclear power is one such source that has a proven record as a non-fossil energy source, providing a reliable power baseline that can meet energy needs as we transition away from fossil fuels. While nuclear energy is not a solution to climate change, it emits no carbon dioxide or other greenhouse gases once up and running. However, it can be dangerous if safety protocols are not followed, and highly radioactive waste generated by nuclear power plants is challenging to store safely. Despite these challenges, nuclear power remains hard to ignore as a potential energy source. By exploring nuclear energy, students can gain a deeper understanding of the benefits and risks associated with this technology, and contribute to the ongoing conversation around how to meet our energy needs while mitigating the impacts of climate change.

Think the bobsled, luge and skeleton events at the Beijing Winter Olympics are all about speed? Think again! In reality, these thrilling events are the ultimate test of physics and the athletes' ability to navigate the complex forces at play. From the transfer of gravitational potential energy into kinetic energy to the impact of air drag, every tiny movement can make a huge difference. So next time you're watching these events, pay close attention to the subtleties at play - you never know what interesting facets of physics you might discover!

Discover how researchers at SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory and other institutions are leading a national initiative to increase the energy efficiency of semiconductors by a factor of 1,000 over the next two decades. Learn how machine learning models, which are applied to a wide range of fields, require an immense amount of energy and how tailored algorithms can help reduce energy consumption. Explore the importance of co-designing software architectures and algorithms, and the fundamental level of materials, devices, and interconnects that generate less heat. Join the movement towards a sustainable future with energy-efficient computing.

Quantum computing is no longer a futuristic concept as researchers from MIT and other institutions have made a major breakthrough in quantum technology. They have developed a new superconducting parametric amplifier that achieves noise squeezing over a broad frequency bandwidth of up to 1.75 gigahertz while maintaining a high degree of squeezing, leading to faster and more accurate quantum systems. This breakthrough has significant implications for multiqubit systems and other metrological applications that demand extreme precision.

Can heat batteries made from stacks of bricks be the solution to bringing renewable energy to heavy industries? Startups are exploring the potential of capturing clean electricity-generated heat and storing it for later use. With simple designs and commercially available materials, these systems could help wean industries off fossil fuels. Learn how heat batteries work and their potential to revolutionize the way we power heavy industries.

Are you a fan of s'mores? Do you want to learn the science behind making the perfect gooey treat? In a quest for perfection, a writer turned to physics and thermodynamics to determine the ideal s'more technique. By considering the heat transfer from marshmallow to chocolate, the writer computed the specific heat and latent heat of melting of both ingredients, and conducted experiments to determine the optimal temperature for the marshmallow. The results? A marshmallow heated to 160°F produces the perfect s'more! This delicious experiment shows that science can be fun and tasty too.

If you're looking for a field of study that is both challenging and rewarding, then look no further than Electrical Engineering. Electrical Engineering is a fascinating and dynamic field that deals with the study, design, and application of electricity, electronics, and electromagnetism. It is an exciting field that is at the forefront of technological innovation and has a significant impact on our daily lives. Electrical Engineering is responsible for the development of many of the devices and systems that we use every day, such as smartphones, computers, power grids, and medical equipment. It is a field that is constantly evolving, with new technologies and innovations emerging all the time. Some of the most interesting research in Electrical Engineering is focused on renewable energy and sustainable technology. With the growing concern for the environment, Electrical Engineers are working on developing new ways to harness renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind power. They are also working on creating more efficient systems and devices that use less energy and have a smaller carbon footprint. At the undergraduate level, students can expect to take a range of modules that cover the fundamentals of Electrical Engineering, including circuit analysis, electronics, and electromagnetics. They will also have the opportunity to specialize in areas such as power systems, control systems, and communications. After completing their undergraduate degree, graduates of Electrical Engineering have a wide range of career opportunities available to them. They can work in industries such as telecommunications, aerospace, and healthcare, designing and developing new technologies and systems. Some notable employers in this field include Apple, Google, and NASA. To succeed in Electrical Engineering, you will need to have a strong foundation in mathematics and physics. You should also have excellent problem-solving skills and be able to think critically and analytically. A passion for technology and a desire to make a positive impact on the world are also important attributes for success in this field. In conclusion, studying Electrical Engineering at the undergraduate level is an excellent choice for those who are passionate about technology and innovation. With a range of exciting career opportunities available, and the potential to make a real difference in the world, Electrical Engineering is a field that is both challenging and rewarding.

The world is rapidly transitioning from fossil fuels to renewable energy sources, and thermodynamics plays a crucial role in this transformation. Renewable energy technologies, such as solar and wind power, rely on the principles of thermodynamics to convert energy from the sun and wind into usable electricity. Thermodynamics is the study of heat and energy, and its laws govern the behavior of energy in different systems. In the context of renewable energy, the first law of thermodynamics states that energy cannot be created or destroyed but can be converted from one form to another. This law is fundamental to understanding how renewable energy technologies work. Solar power is one of the most widely used renewable energy sources. Solar panels convert energy from the sun into usable electricity, and this process relies on the principles of thermodynamics. The panels are made up of photovoltaic cells that contain silicon, a semiconductor that can absorb sunlight and convert it into electricity. This process is made possible by the second law of thermodynamics, which states that heat cannot flow from a colder object to a hotter object without the input of external energy. Wind power is another popular renewable energy source. Wind turbines convert the kinetic energy of the wind into usable electricity, and this process also relies on the principles of thermodynamics. The blades of the turbine capture the kinetic energy of the wind and convert it into mechanical energy, which is then converted into electrical energy. This process is made possible by the first law of thermodynamics, which states that energy cannot be created or destroyed but can be converted from one form to another. Leading academics in the field of renewable energy, such as Dr. Dan Kammen from the University of California, Berkeley, have made significant contributions to the development and advancement of renewable energy technologies. Dr. Kammen has worked on projects that range from designing solar-powered irrigation systems for small-scale farmers in Africa to analyzing the economic and environmental impacts of renewable energy policies. In conclusion, the principles of thermodynamics are essential to understanding renewable energy technologies, and these technologies are critical to the future of our planet. By exploring this topic further, students can gain a deeper understanding of the science behind renewable energy and the role they can play in creating a more sustainable future.

Scientists at SLAC and Stanford have found a way to generate low-carbon fuel from seawater by extracting hydrogen through a double-membrane system and electricity. Their innovative design could help advance efforts to produce clean energy and store energy for weeks, months or longer for electric grids. The study also provided a better understanding of how seawater ions move through membranes, which could help scientists design stronger membranes for other applications.

Researchers at MIT and other institutions have found a way to increase the emission of light from the interaction between photons and electrons by a hundredfold, with potential applications in modern technologies and scientific research.