Explore an interactive representation of the process of science. Home Glossary Search Understanding Science 101 Teacher resources Resource library
Ozone depletion: Uncovering the hidden hazard of hairspray
Follow the scientific journey of Mario Molina, Sherwood Rowland, and other scientists as they study atmospheric chemistry and uncover environmental risks posed by common household chemicals.
The structure of DNA: Cooperation and competition
The structure of DNA: Cooperation and competition
Knowing the structure of DNA has helped push biology into new realms. Find out how the human side of science played out in this remarkable discovery.

A science toolkit
A science toolkit
Get the tools you need to take a scientific approach to life.
Science talk
J. Robert Oppenheimer
"Science is not everything, but science is very beautiful."
— Physicist J. Robert Oppenheimer, quoted in Look, 1966
Ozone depletion
Welcome! Get to know us or take our site tour.
Understanding Science is growing. Subscribe to find out about updates.
Everything you need to know about the nature and process of science Your science toolkit Why science matters Science and society Science as a human endeavor Scientific evidence How science works What is science? Introduction: Science in a nutshell
Resource Library
Teaching resources — find classroom activities, teaching tools, a K-16 conceptual framework, tips, and strategies for integrating the process of science into your teaching, and more.

Correcting misconceptions — clear up common misconceptions about the nature of science.

Science in action — explore case studies, profiles, and news about scientists and how they work.

Frequently asked questions — find answers to common questions about how science works and submit your own.

... and much more coming soon, including an image library, advanced side trips, and new research profiles.

Home | About | Copyright | Credits and Collaborations | Contact | Subscribe
Understanding Science was developed by the University of California Museum of Paleontology in collaboration with its Advisory Boards.

National Science Foundation
Funded by the National Science Foundation under Grant No. EAR-0624436. Any opinions, findings and conclusions or recommendations expressed in this material are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the National Science Foundation (NSF).

Endorsed by:
American
Institute of
Biological
Sciences
California
Science
Teachers
Association
National
Association
of Biology
Teachers

Encyclopedia
of
Life