Forces of Nature is devoted to understanding and respecting Earth as a dynamic planet, allowing guests to experience the earth as never before, where colossal amounts of energy are captured and matter is recycled again and again between land, air and water.
The idea for the gallery was developed by Science Center Guest Experience staff and Dr. Art Sussman, a national expert in science education and author of Dr. Art’s Guide to Planet Earth. The staff researched the latest trends in science literature, the latest findings about how the public learns about natural phenomena and what science concepts students need to master.
Visitors can discover some of the basic science behind nature. Learn everything from the movement of tectonic plates to the power of wind and sand erosion.
Located in the Level 3 Sybil B. Harrington Galleries
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What can you do in Forces of Nature
Immersion Theater: Experience what it feels like to be in the middle of some of nature’s most devastating phenomena: hurricanes, tornadoes, wildfires, volcanic eruptions and monsoons. This 5-minute show happens every 15 minutes (supported by a grant from the Freeport- McMoRan Copper & Gold Foundation).
Magic Planet®: See the last six weeks of weather patterns around the planet. Explore the cloud and air patterns that create major storms around the world. Located in the Wells Fargo Classroom in the Sybil B. Harrington Galleries.
Stardust Faces of Science: Meet three scientists with ties to Arizona: a volcanologist, hydrologist and meteorologist. Each scientist explains, in their own words, what they do and what their work means to the rest of the world. Visitors can also see some of the real-life tools that each scientists uses in their field of expertise.
What's Happening in Forces of Nature
Daily Demonstrations - Demonstrations occur throughout the day, not every demonstration will be daily—please refer to the demonstration board upon arriving at the Center for that day’s schedule
Lava Lab: Have you ever wondered about the earth forces behind a volcanic eruption? Learn about the different types of lava and experience a mini-eruption in the Lava Lab!
Liquid Nitrogen: Explore extreme temperatures and learn about the different states of matter while you watch experiments with liquid nitrogen. Sponsored by: Air Products and Chemicals
Combustion: Learn about this chemical reaction and discover the fire triangle through various experiments.
Magic Planet: Explore the wonderful planet on which we live and discover how the forces of nature balance themselves.
Eggceptional Pressure: Air pressure is the simple mechanism behind forcing an egg into a bottle. Can we bring it out in one piece again? Come find out in this fun demonstration!
