Ep 7. Countdown to Gas-tastrophe

In season 1 episode 7 of MythBusters Jr. titled "Countdown to Gas-tastrophe," the team of young scientists takes on a crucial topic plaguing the world; climate change. The episode revolves around one central question; can we reduce emissions by driving more efficiently?

To answer this question, our young MythBusters design and build a custom testing rig that will measure exactly how much emissions different driving behaviors produce. They start by gathering data on how the elements of driving, including speed, acceleration, and braking impact fuel efficiency. Using this data, they design and build a set of experiments to test their hypothesis that driving efficiently helps reduce emissions.

The team divides up into different groups to test their hypotheses; one group focuses on acceleration and braking, one on speed, and the third tests aerodynamics. The first group uses sensors and computer models to test whether braking suddenly and then accelerating harshly leads to higher fuel emissions. They measure the amount of fuel used for different levels of braking and acceleration and record the emissions. The team then follows the same process for gradual braking and gentle acceleration.

The second group of MythBusters Jr. looks into how speed affects emissions. They test how much CO2 (carbon dioxide) cars pump out when they’re driven at different speeds in a controlled environment. Their results show that fuel consumption and CO2 emissions dramatically increase when driving above 60 mph compared to driving below 50.

Finally, the team studies the effect of aerodynamics on emissions. They test whether it's more fuel-efficient (and less damaging to the environment) to keep the windows rolled up and the air conditioning on rather than the windows down. To test this, they create an airtight sedan and calculate the amount of fuel it uses with the AC on versus open windows.

Throughout the episode, the young scientists learn that driving efficiently can help combat climate change. They collect data and conduct controlled tests, all the while learning about the different elements that impact fuel efficiency. By the end of the episode, they discover that by recognizing and working around the many variables of driving, we can all do our part in preserving the environment.

In conclusion, "Countdown to Gas-tastrophe" is an engaging, informative episode that sheds light on a crucial issue. Through controlled experiments and data-driven discoveries, the MythBusters Jr. team proves that driving more efficiently can have a significant impact on the environment. In addition to being educational, the episode is also packed with fun, exciting experiments that showcase the kids' intelligence, creativity, and enthusiasm.