Nature's Mysteries

Accessible facts about lightning science are presented in this volume in a straightforward narrative and dramatic photographs. Basic information about lightning, thunder, and thunderstorms is presented clearly, with respect for dangerous phenomena. Readers understand how lightning happens, how it develops, and what its effects are. Sidebars pose thoughtful questions and statements for stimulating discussion and finding answers. This easy-to-follow discussion of the science of lightning supports Common Core Science Standards, the importance of recording observations, and connecting abstract knowledge to practical actions.

Auroras-the dancing lights that most often grace the night skies of the North and South Poles-look like magnificent kaleidoscopes of light and color to the naked eye. This absorbing volume breaks down this breathtaking phenomenon, using it to introduce elementary readers to the basics of magnetism and atmospheric science. The narrative carefully explains how the Earth's poles and atmosphere affect solar wind and describes how similar dazzling displays are visible on other planets. Vivid images capture the wonder of the northern and southern lights, while boxed terms and guiding questions nurture a deeper curiosity about our atmosphere.

The fabled oasis in the desert mirage is just one example of the strange things that can happen when light hits the air in certain atmospheric conditions. This captivating volume takes a closer look at mirages and similar phenomena, explaining to elementary readers that there is much more to these natural optical illusions than meets-or doesn't meet-the eye. Topics covered include refraction, the difference between superior and inferior mirages, green flashes, and the famous Fata Morgana castle in the sky mirage. Vocabulary boxes identify key terms, while Think About It and Compare and Contrast questions prompt critical thinking about optics and light.

Gemstones and snowflakes represent some of our most memorable and alluring interactions with crystals, but crystals form many different materials, come in various shapes, sizes, and colors, and can grow in several different ways. This inviting volume examines the science behind crystal formation, clearly explaining to an elementary audience the difference between the types of bonds that hold crystals together and elucidating the melting, freezing, and dissolution processes that yield crystalline structures. Readers are also guided through the process of growing their own crystals at home. Vocabulary, Think About It, and Compare and Contrast boxes round out the engaging narrative.

Fact filled and image packed, this lively volume captures all the excitement of rainbow sightings after rainy days. Readers who delight in the sight of these multihued arcs will be thrilled to learn more about rainbows and related atmospheric phenomena, including moonbows, halos, and sun dogs. They will learn that it takes nothing more than light and water to create some of the most colorful sights in the atmosphere. The volume's clear narrative makes the science of light, prisms, and the color spectrum accessible to an elementary audience, while vocabulary boxes allow readers to quickly locate definitions of key terms and concepts.

Whirlpools-swirling vortexes in the ocean sometimes capable of capsizing entire ships-have long been featured in legend as the work of sea monsters or as gateways to other worlds. We now know that they are normal oceanic currents, usually caused by tides. This attractive volume concisely examines the natural and human-made conditions that create whirlpools, eddies, and more, providing a window into the field of oceanography for an elementary audience. Readers will be fascinated by images of some of the world's most famous maelstroms and will gain a deeper understanding of the connection between the climate and the planet.

Whether they glimmer to attract prey, to ward off predators, or for another reason entirely, glowing organisms are some of the most mesmerizing wonders of nature. This stunning volume introduces elementary readers to bioluminescence and biofluorescence, using accessible language to explain how and why various organisms make their own light. Vibrant images allow readers to journey through woods haunted by fox fire, soar high with fireflies that punctuate a summer night's sky, and dive deep to view the myriad creatures that illuminate the ocean's depths. Boxed text encourages critical thinking about Earth's incredible biodiversity and the behaviors and chemistry of living things.

To ancient peoples, volcanic eruptions represented the wrath of angry gods or goddesses. Today, the inner workings of the Earth are far less mysterious, if still terrifying. This alluring volume demystifies the science of volcanism for elementary readers, explaining how magma forms, the part plate tectonics plays in eruptions, and what we can learn by looking at a volcano's shape. Also covered are some of the most famous eruptions in history. Accompanying diagrams illustrate Earth's inner layers, while images showcase the range of effects volcanoes can have on their surroundings, encouraging readers to consider the extent of nature's fiery fury.

In ancient civilizations, people believed that eclipses represented omens of disaster. Today, total solar eclipses are regarded as rare and wondrous spectacles. The Great American Eclipse of 2017 sparked nationwide enthusiasm and another total solar eclipse will occur across a swath of the United States in 2024. This volume investigates the science and history of eclipses, explaining the astronomical phenomena in accessible terms. Readers will learn about the celestial circumstances that cause eclipses and what to expect during an eclipse. Features such as "Think About It" sidebars encourage readers to apply what they have learned to answer open-ended questions.

In this compelling book, readers learn what hurricanes are, where they get their energy, and how they are named and classified. They discover the anatomy of a hurricane or typhoon, the eye, and the eyewall, and they'll learn about a hurricane's dangerous effects. Readers will explore how climate change could affect the frequency and intensity of future storms, and the steps scientists and officials are taking to keep citizens safe. With numerous photographs and a list of books and websites where readers can go to glean additional information, this book promises to pique the interest of future scientists.

Tornadoes, also called twisters, have terrified people throughout history. Tornado winds are the strongest on Earth and can reach speeds of 300 miles or 500 kilometers per hour. In this captivating volume, students learn how, where, and when tornadoes are likely to form, and the damage they can inflict. They discover the variety of tools that scientists use to measure and predict tornadoes, and the essential role of storm spotters. This resource also explains to readers how to stay safe before, during, and after a twister hits. Special sidebars define key vocabulary words or pose questions to spur critical thinking.

This accessible resource puts earthshaking facts together with dynamic photographs. Interconnecting facts about plate tectonics, faults, and shock waves introduce readers to the study of earth science and explain the causes, effects, and occurrence of earthquakes around the world. Sidebars highlight special vocabulary words, and "Compare and Contrast" and "Think About It" sidebars ask questions to stimulate thinking and discussion skills. This introduction to earthquake science supports Common Core Science Standards, evaluation of evidence, understanding scientific theories, and connecting and relating knowledge. Historic examples show science concepts affecting people in real places such as Texas, Chile, and elsewhere.

The sudden arrival of a "harbor wave" in a crowded seaport has terrified coastal residents for centuries. Tsunamis are among the deadliest natural catastrophes, in some cases killing thousands of people in a matter of minutes. Readers will learn how tsunamis develop, what kinds of damage they cause, and how scientists are using warning systems to give people more time to flee disaster. Some of the deadliest tsunamis in history, including the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami, are also discussed.

Water that lurks beneath the Earth's surface is usually far easier to ignore than the water that covers it-until that water bursts forth above ground as geysers and hot springs. This engaging volume explains to young readers where this water comes from and its relationship to volcanic activity underground. They will also learn where on Earth these spectacular eruptions are found, how geothermal energy can be harnessed for our use, and much more. Striking images of Old Faithful and other geysers fill the pages of this informative volume, while additional geological principles are imparted through boxed questions and terms.