Ep 4. Extreme Heat
- December 28, 2022
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(10)
In Street Genius season 1 episode 4, titled "Extreme Heat," viewers are taken on a journey to explore the science behind extreme temperatures and how it can be harnessed to create energy.
The episode opens with host Tim Shaw explaining that the hotter something gets, the more energy it produces. He introduces viewers to a man named Mike, who is an expert in the art of blacksmithing. Mike demonstrates how a forge works, using coal to heat up steel and shape it into various objects. Shaw explains that the intense heat from the forge is harnessed energy, and asks the question, "What other extreme heat sources can we harness for energy?"
From there, Shaw meets with a group of scientists who are working on a project to harness the thermal energy from volcanoes to create electricity. The team takes Shaw on a journey to an active volcano, where he witnesses the heat from the magma being extracted and turned into electricity.
Next, Shaw explores the use of solar power, which is another form of extreme heat energy. He meets with a group of engineers who are developing a new type of solar power plant that uses mirrors to focus the sun's heat onto a single point, which in turn creates steam to power turbines.
Later in the episode, Shaw visits a laboratory where a team of researchers is working on a new type of battery that can be charged using extreme heat. The battery uses a material called vanadium oxide, which is able to store energy and release it when heated above a certain temperature. Shaw speaks with the lead scientist on the project and learns about the potential applications for this type of battery, including powering electric cars.
The episode ends with Shaw summarizing all the different ways extreme heat energy can be harnessed and used to power the world. He emphasizes the importance of innovation and scientific research in developing new ways to harness renewable energy sources in order to reduce our reliance on fossil fuels.
"Extreme Heat" is a fascinating episode that offers a unique perspective on the science behind energy production. Viewers will be captivated by the innovative ways scientists and engineers are harnessing extreme heat sources to create renewable energy. With stunning visuals and insightful commentary, this episode is a must-watch for anyone interested in the future of energy production.