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All of the energy in the universe is... - George Zaidan and Charles Morton

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TEDEd Animation

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The energy in the universe never increases or decreases -- but it does move around a lot. Energy can be potential (like a stretched-out rubber band waiting to snap) or kinetic (like the molecules that vibrate within any substance). And though we can't exactly see it, every time we cook dinner or shiver on a cold night, we know it's there. George Zaidan and Charles Morton get excited about energy.

Look closely at the air molecules colliding with your skin at 2:20. Other than seeing the red patch of “heat” that appears on the skin where the molecules collide with it, how could you tell whether the air molecules have more or less kinetic energy than the skin? You may wish to compare the case at 2:20 with the case at 2:28.

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TED-Ed Animations feature the words and ideas of educators brought to life by professional animators. Are you an educator or animator interested in creating a TED-Ed Animation? Nominate yourself here »

Meet The Creators

  • Educator George Zaidan, Charles Morton
  • Director Adam Comiskey
  • Artist Samantha Davies, Eleanor Paine, Camelia Cojan
  • Narrator George Zaidan

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