Blog

Summary:

• Shadows are caused by objects that block the path of light,
• Some objects only block some light, letting you see them in a microscope,
• Use your Foldscope Mini to explore shadows and microscopy and share what you discover on the Microcosmos!!

Summary:

• Polarized light only vibrates in one direction,
• Some materials are birefringent causing color patterns that can be seen with polarized light 
• Use your Foldscope to record this phenomena and share it on the Microcosmos!!

Summary:

• Evaporation is the process of a liquid turning into a gas,
• As water evaporates, any salt dissolved in the water will crystalize and fall out of solution,
• Share your observations of what water evaporation revealed with your explorations!

Summary:

• Bubbles are only spherical when there are no unbalanced forces acting on their surface
• Bubbles can get quite large because bubble solution lowers the surface tension of water
• Share your observations of bubbles with others to show what you learned!

Summary:

• The microscopic properties of soil can help you to understand the macroscopic properties of soil and how it is used.
• Making connections between a natural resource and its cultural significance can deepen your understanding and appreciation of the resource.
• Share your observations with others to show what you learned!

• Students need opportunities to use scientific tools and equipment
• Using a fun thing like candy can make taking scientific measurements an enjoyable experience
• Share your observations with others to show what you learned!

This blog is all about crystals! Crystal formation from a supersaturated solution is an example of a physical change - and a microscope can let you watch the phenomenon of crystal formation in real time! Understanding the crystal structure of materials can help us create anything from medicine to art!

Summary:

• Spider webs are made of four basic parts
• Microscopic views of spider silk reveal the structural differences of the four parts
• The vibrations traveling along the silk strands alert the spider as to what is happening on the web
• Share your observations with others to show what you learned!