Ep 12. Under the Big Top

Under the Big Top is the 12th episode of Popular Mechanics for Kids Season 2. In this episode, Elisha and Tyler explore the exciting world of the circus. They meet with performers and trainers to learn about the science and engineering behind the acts.

The hosts start by visiting a trapeze artist, who explains the physics behind a successful aerial act. She demonstrates gravity, momentum, velocity, and balance while performing her act. Elisha and Tyler also try their hand at a mini-trapeze and experience the sensation of flying through the air.

Next up is the tightrope walker, who shares the secrets behind staying balanced on a thin wire. She reveals how she maintains her center of gravity, how she uses her toes to grip the wire, and how she compensates for the wind. Elisha and Tyler then attempt to walk on a mini-tightrope and find it much more challenging than it looks.

Another fascinating act they investigate is the human cannonball. The performer demonstrates the physics behind being fired out of a cannon and how to land safely on the other end. Elisha and Tyler learn about the calculations involved in determining the proper angle, velocity, and trajectory needed to soar through the air and land on a net.

Continuing their exploration of the circus, the hosts visit with a clown to learn the art of juggling. The clown explains how juggling requires hand-eye coordination, timing, and muscle memory. Elisha and Tyler then try to juggle scarves and balls, surprisingly having some success.

As the duo wraps up their behind-the-scenes tour of the circus, they visit the animal trainers. They learn about animal behavior, training techniques, and safety procedures. They meet a lion tamer and get to witness a lion perform some tricks. They also meet an elephant trainer and get to feed and ride an elephant, who is also able to demonstrate some entertaining feats.

The episode concludes with Elisha and Tyler performing their own circus act, combining some of the skills they learned from the various performers they met. They put on a mini-show for the circus crew, complete with juggling, gymnastics, and a human pyramid.

Overall, Under the Big Top is an exciting episode that mixes entertainment with education. Elisha and Tyler take viewers on a journey through the science and engineering behind some of the most incredible circus acts. Viewers will be amazed by the skills and expertise of the performers, as well as the knowledge gained in the process.