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How do we know what color dinosaurs were? - Len Bloch

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The microraptor was a four-winged carnivorous dinosaur with iridescent black feathers. But if our information about this dinosaur comes from fossils, how can we be certain about its color? Len Bloch shows how making sense of the evidence requires careful examination of the fossil and a good understanding of the physics of light and color.

In feathers, melanin forms nanostructures called:

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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 Len Bloch
  • Animator Paul Newell
  • Composer Sean Peter
  • Sound Designer David Heinrich
  • Narrator Addison Anderson

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