There’s no doubt about it: weather plays a big role in our lives. But what exactly is weather, and what causes it? Why is it sunny one day and cloudy the next? What are hail and fog? Find out how events that occur miles above Earth’s surface produce different types of weather. Simple experiments give a hands–on approach to studying sunlight, air temperature, and atmospheric pressure. Also included are directions for making meteorological instruments, including a precipitation gauge and barometer. There may be no way to control the weather, but you can find out how to predict weather events and how to prepare for them.

If there’s one thing that many of us find ourselves talking about, it’s the weather. Such discussions, however, usually involve general observations, not data-based information derived from the instruments that actually measure such variables as air pressure, humidity, or wind strength. In this concise and compelling volume, young readers will be treated to clear information and useful illustrations that will help them gain a true understanding of what’s behind all the talk about weather. In fact, this accessible book provides tips so that would-be meteorologists can take a hands-on approach to measuring rainfall, wind direction, humidity, and more.

From ancient times, people have wanted to learn about the sky. The stars, planets, and other heavenly bodies have been observed for centuries, and theories have changed as the equipment used has improved. Though we now know that the Sun is the center of our solar system, and planets and other objects move around it, we still have a lot to learn. What is a comet made of? Why is Pluto now called a dwarf planet? What causes a solar eclipse? A lunar eclipse? This book will help you answer these questions and more. Whether you try the experiments and activities in this book for fun or for a school project, you’ll discover why so many people are fascinated by our solar system.

How do clouds form, and where does water go after it rains? What makes water stick to things, and does this characteristic serve any purpose? What effect does pollution have on the quality of water—for humans and other living things? Can salt water be made drinkable? Is it possible to change aspects of water such as its freezing point or density? Using simple and fun hands-on experiments, you can answer all of these questions and more as you learn about the substance that makes life possible on Earth—water.

Our planet shakes with over one thousand earthquakes every day. The strongest ones destroy buildings, roads, and lives. They trigger killer tidal waves called tsunamis. Yet most earthquakes are too weak to feel. What causes earthquakes? And what makes the difference between a killer quake and a harmless one? Learn more about earthquakes with these thirteen fun experiments you can do yourself. You’ll think like a seismologist as you build models of faults, study earthquake-proof structures, and even try to predict the next “big one.”

Calling all rock hounds! Learn about rocks and minerals with these fifteen simple science experiments you can do yourself. You’ll think like a geologist as you start your own rock collection, learn about earth processes, explore the properties of minerals, and even grow your own crystals.

Volcanoes literally turn the earth inside out, bringing hot molten rock from deep inside the earth to the surface. Learn more about the spectacular geology behind volcanoes with twelve fun science projects you can do yourself. You’ll think like a volcanologist as you build a model volcano that really erupts, re-create the formation of Hawaii, and make your own power station using the heat that powers volcanic eruptions. Get up close and personal with the destructive forces of the earth!