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In this activity, a lightbulb is placed in front of a concave mirror. The actual lightbulb is not visible to the viewer, but the viewer can see the mirror image of the lightbulb formed in space.

In this optics activity, learners explore how light bends and affects what we see.

In this activity related to the famous "Stroop Effect," learners explore how words influence what we see and how the brain handles "mixed messages." Learners read colored words and are asked to say th

This is a quick activity/demonstration that introduces learners to the concept of index of refraction. Learners place stirring rods in a jar of water and notice they can see them clearly.

In this optics activity, learners use paint thinner to make a small jar seem to disappear inside a larger jar.

In this activity about light and reflection, learners use a special device called a Mirage Maker™ to create an illusion.

In this optics activity, learners create flip books by drawing an image like an eye opening and closing on 24 small pages of paper.

In this activity, learners play with a fuzzy-colored dot that has no distinct edges seems to disappear. As learners stare at the dot, its color appears to blend with the colors surrounding it.

In this activity about vision and optical illusions, learners conduct a simple test to demonstrate how our eyes create "afterimages." Learners stare at a black cardboard bat for at least 30 seconds an

In this activity, learners explore how pictures change in curved mirrors. Learners make cylindrical mirrors by wrapping Mylar around soda cans.

In this activity, learners use a simple trick of perspective to dress friends in tiny cutout clothing. Learners make tiny pants out of card stock and tape them to the end of a stick.

In this activity, learners will make a thaumatrope, an old-fashioned optical illusion that dates back to the 1820s.

Spin a short piece of PVC pipe that's been marked up, and watch a triangle appear. Enjoy this optical illusion from the Exploratorium's Science Snack series.

In this activity, learners investigate how geometry plays a role in perspective.