PBS Space Time Season 2015 Episode 1 What Planet is Super Mario World?

PBS Space Time is a science-based show that explores the mysteries of the universe. Season 2015 episode 1, titled "What Planet is Super Mario World?" starts by answering a classic question that intrigued many: where does Super Mario's world take place?

In this episode, the hosts discuss the landscape of Super Mario World and examine whether it could exist in our universe. They explain how Super Mario World seems to be an inverted version of Earth, with everything being upside down. The show's hosts also explain how the physics and gravitational pull on Super Mario World seem to be non-existent, and the characters can jump significantly higher than on Earth. The hosts use Newton's laws of motion and gravity to explore the discrepancies in Mario's world, providing some interesting insight into the world of gaming.

The hosts also look at the physics behind the Super Mario World characters' movements, including how Mario can jump so high, his speed, and how his jumps change depending on the power-up he has. They delve into the mechanics behind the character's movements, from the acceleration and drag to the buoyancy of the characters underwater. They reference past episodes to explain how jump height and running speeds are affected by gravity and air resistance - factors that differ in Mario's world and the real world.

Furthermore, the hosts consider how Super Mario World's moons and planets work and reflect on the possibilities of having different gravitational pulls. They explore the concept of different types of moons with different materials, masses, and distances from planets and dive deeper into the implications of such variations on the gravitational pull.

Towards the end of the episode, the hosts answer some common queries from Super Mario myths such as the possibility of flipping the world upside down, the existence of ghosts, and the reality of Mario's world. They explain that while Super Mario World might not be relatable to our world entirely, it has its own set of laws which allow it to create a fun and engaging gameplay experience for gamers worldwide.

In conclusion, PBS Space Time's season 2015 episode 1, What Planet is Super Mario World?, offers a fascinating exploration into the physics and mechanics of Super Mario World and how it compares to the real world. Through the lens of Newton's laws of motion and gravity, the hosts provide entertaining and informative insights into the world of gaming. Whether you are a fan of Super Mario or a science enthusiast, this episode is a treat for anyone interested in exploring the physics behind video games or pondering the possibilities of physics in parallel universes.