Our questions about the world begin almost as soon as we enter it. Why does fire burn? What is lightning?

Before we even have language to express it, we are fascinated by nature. Kids eagerly ask about the color of the sky or the end of the rainbow. Grown-ups always seem to find themselves talking about the weather. We have a deep desire to interpret our observations of the world around us. Science can answer questions, but science is also about asking them.

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Reclaim Your Inner Scientist

Reconnect with your sense of wonder in Science Storms. This permanent exhibit collects forces of nature under one roof, letting you observe and experiment with seven natural phenomena: lightning, fire, tornados, avalanches, tsunamis, sunlight and atoms in motion. Sure, you'll learn core concepts of chemistry and physics, but it's understandable if you're too busy controlling a 40-foot tornado, seeing 1.5 million volts strike or creating a tsunami to realize it.

It isn't every day you get to step into a tornado.
(Except any day at Griffin MSI.)
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Curiosity is the original renewable energy source. Tap into yours with these large-scale explorations of nature's wonder.

What happens when you mix together three random elements from the periodic table? What angle is best for launching a tennis ball the furthest? These and many other burning (and crackling and gusting and soaring) questions are here for you to ask and answer. After all, you're the scientist around here.

Brought to you through the generosity of The Allstate Corporation, The Allstate Foundation, and The Grainger Foundation. Additional major funding provided by the U.S. Department of Energy.

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