Home

The Art of Simple Science

Dec 20, 2010 05:00 PM

Why does the world work the way it does? Linda Dong takes basic scientific principles and translates them into beautifully simple, explanatory images.

A minimalist triangular object casting a shadow on a surface.

The narrower the light source, the more sharp an object's shadow becomes. (Foam core, light)

A creative depiction of a potato with wires and a light bulb, resembling a quirky character.

A battery is anything that converts chemical energy directly into electrical energy. (Potato, pennies, galvanized nails, wire, bulb)

Popcorn kernels close-up with a warm background.

Heating the air and water inside soap causes it to vaporize and expand, creating a foam. (Microwaved Ivory soap)

A whimsical arrangement of a metal watering can, a wooden figure, and a soap bubble on a balanced surface.

Potential energy is the amount of energy stored in a system because of its configuration. (Found objects)

Three sewing needles positioned on a curved surface.

Balloons are made up of polymer chains that stretch and seal around punctures. (Needles in a balloon)

Surface tension 2 (pepper, water, and dish washer soap)

Orange fruit in water pitcher with slices beside it.

Unpeeled oranges float, peeled oranges don't. Air bubbles trapped in the orange rind give it buoyancy. (Orange and water)

See more images.

You already know how to use your phone. With Gadget Hacks' newsletter, we'll show you how to master it. Each week, we explore features, hidden tools, and advanced settings that give you more control over iOS and Android than most users even know exists.