Experimenting with Light Rays and Parabolic Mirrors

Floor Programs Volunteer Manager Shanna shows us just how powerful the sun's energy really is. Adult supervision needed.

You will find out about how scientists can harness the energy of the sun using a parabolic mirror. Since the mirror is curved, it collects the sun's energy into one single spot, called the focal point. In this demonstration, the focal point of a parabolic mirror collects so much engergy, it causes a piece of wood to burst into flames!