Monthly Archives: June 2012

This YouTube video includes a very-slow-motion demonstration of how a real Slinky toy behaves as it falls. The result is fascinating, counter-intuitive, and highly informative. It beautifully combines such concepts as centre or mass, acceleration due to gravity, and equilibrium. … Continue reading →

This video, Open Letter to the Universe, is the home of one of my favourite YouTube channels. These short videos were recommended to me by one of the students I tutor in physics and mathematics. They touch on a wide … Continue reading →

There are many definitions of science. My favourite simply calls it “a method for inquiring about nature”. The key word here is method. The beauty, power, and versatility of the scientific method come from its emphasis on not fooling oneself. … Continue reading →

In this TEDxWarwick talk, Cambridge University physicist David MacKay uses some back-of-the-envelope calculations to discus how Britain’s energy needs might be met without the use of fossil fuels. Many of the calculations done in physics are horrendously complicated, not because … Continue reading →