Street Science Season 2 Episode 4 Homemade Lighting

In the fourth episode of Street Science season 2, titled "Homemade Lighting," host Kevin Delaney and his team explore the science behind creating homemade lightning. The episode starts with Kevin explaining the basics of electricity and lightning, followed by a demonstration of a Tesla coil and its lightning output. Kevin also talks about Benjamin Franklin, who famously conducted a kite experiment to prove that lightning is a form of electricity.

Next, the team heads to a metal shop, where they meet blacksmith Lee Sauders. Lee shows Kevin how he uses a forge and an anvil to shape metal, but Kevin is more interested in the sparks generated by the metal hitting the anvil. He wants to create a larger spark, so Lee helps him make a giant "spark plug" out of metal. The spark plug is then hooked up to a Tesla coil to create a giant spark, which Kevin uses to light a propane torch.

In the next segment, Kevin meets with Michaela Carrozzo, who has a successful YouTube channel about DIY science experiments. Michaela shows Kevin how to make a Jacob's ladder, which is a classic science experiment that involves a spark climbing up two wires. Kevin and Michaela set up the Jacob's ladder in a dark room and film it using a high-speed camera, which allows them to see the spark movement in slow motion. They then experiment with different gases, such as helium and neon, to see how they affect the spark.

Later in the episode, Kevin meets with artist and engineer Michael Candy, who creates large-scale sculptures that incorporate electricity and interactive elements. Michael shows Kevin some of his work, including a giant Tesla coil that plays music and a sculpture that uses LEDs to mimic lightning. Michael also helps Kevin build a small-scale Tesla coil, which they use to create a miniature lightning storm.

In the final segment, Kevin meets with pyrotechnician Kyle Keegan to learn about fireworks. Kyle shows Kevin how fireworks are made and explains the chemical reactions that cause different colors and sounds. Kevin then helps Kyle set up a small fireworks display, using various types of fireworks to create different effects. Kevin also shows off his giant spark plug, which he uses to ignite the fireworks.

Throughout the episode, Kevin explains the science behind each experiment and how each one relates to lightning and electricity. He also emphasizes the importance of safety and encourages viewers to always wear protective gear and follow proper procedures when working with electricity or fireworks. Overall, the episode is a fun and educational look at DIY science experiments and the many ways people can harness the power of electricity.