We like to show our gratitude and thankfulness in November. In appreciation of our amazing STEM ed supporters and students, we’re offering the following STEM stories to gobble up!
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A Turkey’s Wattle Makes Some Interesting Color Changes
There is so much to be grateful for, particularly as we consider our accomplishments so far this year and anticipate the holidays ahead. While turkey may be a staple of many Thanksgiving meals, the animal has some distinct features we can also appreciate, like how its wattle changes color to reflect its emotions. When a male turkey is excited, his head will turn blue, and when he’s under stress, it will become bright red. These color changes can occur multiple times throughout the day, reflecting his varying levels of stress and relaxation.
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Link to Article: https://www.lensc.org/8-wild-facts-about-wild-turkeys/
Chemistry Happens With Pumpkin Pie
Pies are a favorite at Thanksgiving! Many pumpkin pie recipes for the holiday feature cloves and nutmeg. Did you know that these two fascinating spices come from nearly identical molecules: eugenol and isoeugenol? The compounds that contribute to the unique flavors of cloves and nutmeg have surprisingly similar structures. Eugenol is what gives cloves their pleasing taste and aroma, while isoeugenol is responsible for the distinctive flavor and scent of nutmeg.
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Link to Article: https://www.nsf.gov/news/mmg/mmg_disp.jsp?med_id=69375#:~:text=This%20video%20focuses%20on%20chemical,taste%20and%20smell%20of%20nutmeg
The Leonid Meteor Shower
In addition to food, festivities, and community, there’s also a breathtaking meteor shower to admire. The Leonid Meteor Shower will be visible November 3rd to December 2nd, peaking overnight November 16 to 17. Light trails appear to emanate from the constellation Leo, with an expected rate of around 15 meteors per hour.
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Link to Article: https://www.space.com/34500-leonid-meteor-shower-guide.html
