Readers will learn how water becomes ice, and how it defies the basics of physical science by floating in liquid when frozen.

Introduces the process of combustion, explaining how fuel, heat, and oxygen combine to create fire.

"Yes, the changing colors of leaves signal the coming of fall, but why do they change? Is it the cold, the amount of sunlight . . . young naturalists need to know! This engaging book reveals the science behind the colorful leaves we see falling to the earth each year. Scientific vocabulary and spectacular photographs support up-and-coming scientists' understanding as they learn about the natural processes at work, not just in autumn, but all year...

Explores what happens to garbage after it has been picked up by the garbage truck and discusses ways garbage is used to energy.

"When we're checking the thermometer to see what the temperature is outside-or maybe to see if we have a fever-we rarely think about what makes the thermometer function. This amazing, reliable invention is attributed to Galileo! Readers will learn about the first mercury thermometers and how they work, as well as the digital models they may be more familiar with today. Many important science concepts are presented, along with beneficial photographs...

"Rocks are everywhere. How they formed in the first place is a question we may have never asked. The fascinating answer is something we need to know! In this engaging volume, budding geologists will come to appreciate Earth's remarkable rock cycle and marvel at the processes that create-and destroy!-the landforms we know. Essential vocabulary terms, accessible explanations, and helpful diagrams make this a valuable book for every earth science collection"--...

"Nature's pyrotechnics-that's what a lightning storm is! It's at once engrossing and sometimes quite scary. Young meteorologists will love learning what's going on behind the flashes and booms of storms through the inviting pages of this lively volume. At-level text provides comprehensible explanations, while supportive photographs and diagrams help readers remember need-to-know facts"--

Patrick is back! Can YOU help him solve 10 different mysteries? Patrick Picklebottom has a knack for critical thinking. So it's not too surprising that he and his best friend, Claire, keep coming across everyday mysteries. In school, at the local ice cream shop, during a history fair - even in his own house - Patrick constantly comes across new cases to crack.

Explores water used in homes, discusses where it comes from, what a septic system is, and what happens to the water after it is treated at the water treatment plant.