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In this three-part activity, learners conduct simple experiments to see how light refracts and reflects, and how colors of light affect what we see.

This is an online exhibit about color perception. Learners set a random background color and then try to mix red, blue, and green light to match.

In this activity (posted on March 12, 2011), learners follow the steps to construct a spectroscope, a tool used to analyze light and color.

In this activity, learners use gelatin as a lens to investigate the properties of laser light.

In this activity, learners use Jell-O to explore lenses. Learners cut Jell-O into convex and concave lens shapes and examine how light exits each lens in a darkened room.

In this activity, learners use an old CD to construct a spectroscope, a device that separates light into its component colors.

In this fun optics activity, learners explore principles of light, reflection (mirrors), and perception. Learners work in pairs and sit on opposite sides of a "two-way" mirror.

In this activity, learners explore what happens when polarized white light passes through a sugar solution.

In this math activity related to light, learners explore why a light, such as a candle or a streetlight, looks dimmer the farther away from it we get.

By making models of light waves with paper, learners can understand why different colors appear in bubbles.

In this activity, learners use a compact disc to make a spectrometer, an instrument used to measure properties of light.

In this activity, learners explore liquid crystals, light and temperature. Using a postcard made of temperature-sensitive liquid crystal material, learners monitor temperature changes.

In this activity, learners trap a thin layer of air between two pieces of Plexiglas to produce rainbow-colored interference patterns.

In this math activity related to light, learners assemble a photometer and use it to estimate the power output of the Sun.

In this activity, learners explore how nanosized structures can create brilliant color.

In this activity, learners make their own heat waves in an aquarium.

In this optics activity, learners discover that not all shadows are black. Learners explore human color perception by using colored lights to make additive color mixtures.

This is an activity (located on page 131 of the PDF) related to sleep and circadian rhythms as well as space travel.

In this activity, learners use a laser pointer, empty soda bottle, rubber plug and water to demonstrate total internal reflection.

In this optics activity, demonstrate diffraction using a candle or a small bright flashlight bulb and a slide made with two pencils.