There are over twenty-five million cloud-to-ground lightning flashes strike in the U.S. every year. Meteorologists use a combination of math and science to track when and where they will strike.
Predicting the Weather
From tornados to hurricanes and thunderstorms to climate change, these nine scientists from the National Center for Atmospheric Research (NCAR) are using math and science to better understand and predict severe weather systems.
Tornado Chase
With an average energy of roughly 1 million pounds of TNT, tornados are one of nature's most powerful phenomena. And while atmospheric scientists know a great deal about tornados, such as the conditions in which they are most likely to form, no one yet un
Types of Oceanography
From physical oceanographers who study tides and waves to marine geologists who study undersea rock formations, there are many fields of science which seek a better understanding of the Earth's oceans.
Understanding Hurricanes
Scientist Kevin Petty, of the National Center for Atmospheric Research, studies hurricanes. He is helping to improve hurricane forecasts and warnings by learning how to better predict the intensity and duration of hurricanes.
When world renowned architect Rafael Vinoli proposed a radical design for the University of California, he set in motion a collaboration between architects and engineers who would use math, physics and innovation to build one of the most unique buildings.
Understanding Earthquakes
Every day there are small earthquakes somewhere in the world. Geophysicist Brad Aagart keeps track. He and his colleagues develop seismic hazard maps. His tools? Math, science and a vast array of new technology.
Life Under the Ocean
A marine biologist studies the jellyfish-like animals living at 3,000 feet below the surface, where it is cold, dark and quiet. Featured: George Matsumoto, marine biologist, Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute.