Ep 6. Tunnels, Beakmania & Trains
- October 9, 1993
In Beakman's World season 2 episode 6 titled "Tunnels, Beakmania & Trains," our host Beakman takes us on a wild ride as we explore the world of tunnels, trains, and the science behind them.
The episode opens with Beakman introducing his assistant, the lovable rat-tailed Lester, who has brought with him several items related to trains, including a model train set and a train whistle. Beakman explains that trains are a fascinating mode of transportation and that they have been around for hundreds of years.
Next, Beakman moves on to the topic of tunnels. He demonstrates with a small-scale model how tunnels are constructed and the engineering principles behind them. He also explains how tunnels are used not just for transportation, but also for mining and even military purposes.
The show then takes a humorous turn as Beakman introduces a new segment called "Beakmania." This segment features a wacky game show-style competition between Beakman and Lester, with questions and challenges related to the topics of the episode. It's a fun and silly way to break up the more educational segments of the show.
After the Beakmania segment, we return to the topic of trains as Beakman shows us a model train set and explains the various components of a locomotive, including the engine, wheels, and brakes. He also explains the important role that train conductors and engineers play in keeping trains running safely.
Finally, Beakman introduces us to the concept of friction and how it relates to trains and their ability to move. He demonstrates a simple experiment to show how friction affects movement, and then applies this knowledge to the question of how trains are able to climb steep hills.
Overall, Beakman's World season 2 episode 6 is a fun and informative exploration of the world of trains, tunnels, and the science behind them. With Beakman as our guide, we learn how these incredible feats of engineering work and the role they play in our everyday lives.
