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Science, Maths & Technology
What chemical compounds might be present in drinking water?
Do you want to know what’s in the water that you drink? This free course, What chemical compounds might be present in drinking water?, examines the chemical compounds that occur in drinking water. A high level of certain anions in water can cause environmental pollution and health problems. Cations are also important. For example, calcium salts ...
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Science, Maths & Technology
Pumice
A brief description of the nature of pumice
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Science, Maths & Technology
DIY: Experiments with Natural Dyes
Step-by-step guide on how to make your own natural dye, part of the BBC/OU's programme website for Rough Science 1
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Science, Maths & Technology
Rhyolite
A brief description of the nature of rhyolite
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Science, Maths & Technology
The secrets of the brain
Despite us all having one, the brain is a mystery. Here Ester Pascual-Baixauli tells us some fascinating facts about this organ...
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Science, Maths & Technology
The machine that is still changing the world
The automotive sector is not only continuing to adapt and improve itself, but through the adaptation and spread of its techniques to manage operations more effectively in other sectors, it is also continuing to change the world.
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level 3: advanced icon
Science, Maths & Technology
Introduction to finite element analysis
What is finite element analysis (what is it and why do we carry it out? This free course, Introduction to finite element analysis, introduces the essence of finite element analysis. As an example of its use, you will look at the case of FEA of the tub of a racing car. You will also have the opportunity to try out two exercises to carry out a ...
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level 2: intermediate icon
Science, Maths & Technology
Introduction to active galaxies
The field of active galaxies is recognised as one of increasing importance. But how do we know there are different kinds of galaxy? What are active galaxies? How are they powered? This free course, Introduction to active galaxies, examines the different types of active galaxies and looks at the crucial role of the active galactic nucleus and the...
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Science, Maths & Technology
Maths for Energy Science
Are you considering doing a science qualification but wondering if you have adequate maths skills? Test yourself in our interactive.
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level 3: advanced icon
Science, Maths & Technology
Exploring anxiety
This free advanced level course, Exploring anxiety, serves as an introduction to masters level study in neurosciences and mental health. Focusing on anxiety, you will consider key issues concerning diagnosis, causes and interventions. You will also learn how to evaluate news items, and to go behind the headlines and begin to explore some of the ...
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level 1: introductory icon
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Science, Maths & Technology
Understanding antibiotic resistance
Antibiotic resistance is a serious threat, compromising our ability to treat infections and increasing the risk of routine surgery. Resistant infections are increasing due to overuse of antibiotics and this has resulted in the emergence of 'superbugs' (bacteria resistant to multiple antibiotics). This free course, Understanding antibiotic ...
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level 2: intermediate icon
Science, Maths & Technology
The oceans
The oceans cover more than 70 per cent of our planet. In this free course, The oceans, you will learn about the depths of the oceans and the properties of the water that fills them, what drives the ocean circulation and how the oceans influence our climate.