Electrochemistry

I like that the preface to the home-made hydrogen bomb emphasizes that "building this toy can be put to good use building many other devices and works of art," that is besides as an actual bomb of destruction. I enjoy seeing works of art that utilize rules of science and nature to explore energy, color, angles, sound, conductivity and more. It's fun to think of things constructed, based on scientific principles, being in the hands of artists and the eyes art lovers because it shows the correlation of these energetic reactions with our every day lives and imaginations-- not just something technical or exclusive to the minds of scientists.

Also, sites like this one that make processes like making your own engine or fuel cell or kaleidoscopes available to kids and adults alike (any one that is curious) is great because it gives people the insight that these are simple, understandable reactions that we can create with time and the right materials. I think it is valuable for people to see that some reactions (like a hydrogen bomb) are not intrinisically "bad," but rather explore the power of electrochemistry, and that it is the intention and use of these things that can create problems.

This "how to make your own science toys" section of the web site takes a bit of the mystery out of things like kaleidoscopes and levitation, but i think still maintains how wonder-ful they are. It's nice for people to understand things and still see how amazing the process is, not just the outcome.