Ep 21. Featuring: Air Surfing, Nucleation Fountain.

Featuring a combination of science and education, Science Max season 1 episode 21 delves into the world of air surfing and nucleation fountains. In this episode, viewers get to explore the science behind these unusual yet fascinating phenomena and learn how to recreate them at home.

The episode kicks off with science demonstrator Phil McCordic introducing the concept of air surfing. Phil explains that air surfing, also known as the Bernoulli principle, is a scientific concept that explains the aerodynamic lift that allows airplanes to fly. He then sets out to demonstrate the phenomenon by building a miniature air surfer with simple materials. Phil runs experiments to show the forces involved in air surfing, and explains how the wing of an airplane is designed to produce lift by creating a low-pressure zone.

Next up, Phil dives into the science behind nucleation fountains. Nucleation is the process by which a solid or liquid phase appears in a solution due to a chemical reaction. Phil demonstrates this phenomenon by using dry ice as a source of carbon dioxide gas and adding it to water. The gas rapidly escapes from the water, creating numerous bubbles that rise to the surface. The bubbles attach to any surface they come into contact with, creating an impressive water fountain effect.

To better understand the science behind nucleation fountains, Phil meets with chemist Dr. Lori Van Der Sluis, who explains that the bubbles are nucleation sites where carbon dioxide molecules attach to water molecules. She also points out that this phenomenon is not unique to water, but can happen in other liquids as well, including in carbonated beverages like soda.

Phil then sets out to create a large-scale nucleation fountain using a 200-liter tank filled with water and 80 kilograms of dry ice. The result is a mesmerizing display of bubbles rising to the surface, creating a dramatic fountain effect that reaches several meters high. Phil explains that the larger the surface area of the nucleation site, the more bubbles will be produced, which means that adding more dry ice leads to more bubbles and a more impressive fountain display.

In addition to demonstrating air surfing and nucleation fountains, Phil also explains the scientific principles that lie behind these phenomena. Throughout the episode, he provides interesting and relatable examples to help viewers understand complex scientific concepts. He also encourages viewers to conduct their own experiments at home using simple materials, making it easy to follow along with the show's exciting demonstrations.

Overall, Science Max season 1 episode 21 is an entertaining and educational episode that offers a unique insight into the world of science. It encourages curiosity and experimentation, providing viewers with the tools and knowledge to conduct their experiments successfully. With impressive demonstrations, engaging explanations, and relatable examples, this episode is a fantastic addition to the Science Max series.