You might think the word play of silicon and silicone is a little like the debate over “you say tomato (toh-may-toe) and I say tomatoe” (toh-mah-toe). But while it might seem like the two words can switched easily and mean the same thing, they simply can’t be. Silicon and silicone are, in reality, two different things.
Silicon is a natural chemical found pretty much everywhere on Earth. That’s because silicon is a primary component in sand. Take a look at sand using a magnifying glass and you’ll find silicon pretty easily because it is usually found in crystal form.
Technology
Scientists are making skin for robots
A team at UNC Chapel Hill discovers that by rearranging silicone molecules, they can make a gel that performs a lot like skin and muscle, paving the way for new medical devices and possibly life-like skin for robots.
Designing the perfect weed killer
Weeds are one of the biggest threats to a farmer’s crop. But it’s bad for the environment and expensive to just spray herbicides everywhere. Researchers are studying the best ways to help farmers.
What it takes to build an oyster reef
North Carolina started oyster reef restoration projects in the Pamlico Sound in 1996 and 15 have been completed. The largest project, Swan Island, is underway. It will cover 50 acres. Find out how it’s done.
Where the phrase "pulling out all the stops" comes from
As the Holy Name of Jesus Cathedral in Raleigh installs a new organ, UNC-TV Science discovers the meaning behind the phrase "pulling out all the stops" from music director Michael Accurso.
Manufacturing in N.C. isn't dead. But it's different
In the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, a leaner and more innovative textile industry is growing. The Manufacturing Solutions Center in Conover is training the next generation of workers and entrepreneurs.
How Marvel incorporates science in their movies
Clifford Johnson, Ph.D. is on a mission. The theoretical high energy physicist at USC is a science advisor to Marvel Studios, and he explained to UNC-TV science how he used his consultant role to introduce science to the general public.
Meet an N.C. teacher turned oyster farmer
Ryan Bethea gave up teaching to become one of North Carolina's oyster farmers, using science to raise award-winning oysters on five acres of estuary he leases from the state.
What does a science advisor to Marvel Studios do?
Meet Clifford Johnson, Ph.D., theoretical astrophysicist and Marvel Studios science advisor. He advised filmmakers on Avengers: Infinity War.
How insulated mugs work
Wake Forest entrepreneur Dean Verhoeven invented a mug that keeps drinks the perfect temperature. Find out how his business got started and how the mug works.