The Physics of Light

Gr 10 Up—This six-part, South Korean-made series introduces viewers to the history and science of light, beginning with Einstein's Theory of Relativity, and includes the groundbreaking discoveries by Galileo, Newton, and more. It features on-location and archival footage, reenactments, computer animation, interviews with current leaders in the field, and more. While most of the segments have been recorded in English, the host's narration has been dubbed. An attempt to synchronize the English dubbing with the original Korean narration makes for some stilted pacing at times. Also, an explanation of electron energy levels in an atom mentions nickels, dimes, half dollars, and dollars, while Korean currency is shown on screen. Complex explanations are clever and clear. For example, in the segment on atoms, the host stands in a soccer stadium holding a marble to show the relative size of an atom while computer-animated electrons whizz around him. Later, the host fires a rifle at an animated 60-story skyscraper of gold leaf as a reenactment of Ernest Rutherford's foil experiment. Educators and enthusiasts will appreciate the lucid examples and accompanying visuals. The set is best watched in order, as later episodes refer to previous chapters.