The Royal Institution Courses

A History of Nerve Agents - With Dan Kaszeta

Uncover the chilling history of nerve agents, from their 1930s invention to recent attacks. Explore their global spread, deployment in conflicts, and international control efforts.

• YouTube
• 56 minutes
• Self-Paced
• Free Video

What Is Reality? - With Frank Wilczek

Nobel laureate Frank Wilczek explores fundamental concepts shaping our understanding of the universe, including time, space, matter, energy, complexity, and complementarity, offering insights into the nature of reality.

• YouTube
• 1 hour 18 minutes
• Self-Paced
• Free Video

A Series of Fortunate Events – With Sean B. Carroll

Explore the profound impact of chance on life's evolution and diversity. Sean B. Carroll reveals how random events shape our world, challenging traditional views on purpose and design in nature.

• YouTube
• 32 minutes
• Self-Paced
• Free Video

The Hunt for New Batteries - with Serena Corr

Explore the science of batteries, their evolution, and ongoing research for safer, more efficient energy storage solutions to power electric vehicles and support renewable energy transitions.

• YouTube
• 1 hour 11 minutes
• Self-Paced
• Free Video

The 10 Equations That Rule the World - With David Sumpter

Explore 10 key mathematical equations and their real-world applications in finance, relationships, social media, and personal development with Professor David Sumpter.

• YouTube
• 52 minutes
• Self-Paced
• Free Video

Diary of an Apprentice Astronaut - With Samantha Cristoforetti

Samantha Cristoforetti shares her extraordinary journey as an astronaut, from selection to life aboard the International Space Station, offering unique insights into the challenges and wonders of space exploration.

• YouTube
• 40 minutes
• Self-Paced
• Free Video

The Last Stargazers - With Emily Levesque

Explore the evolving world of professional astronomy, from remote observatories to cutting-edge technology, and the shift from human to robotic stargazers in this captivating journey through space science.

• YouTube
• 56 minutes
• Self-Paced
• Free Video

How to Take and Develop Your Own Photos - Szydlo's At Home Science

Comprehensive guide to film photography, from camera operation to developing and printing, using 1960s rapid techniques for newspaper photography. Ideal for enthusiasts seeking hands-on knowledge.

• YouTube
• 52 minutes
• Self-Paced
• Free Video

The End of Everything - With Katie Mack

Explore cosmic endings with astrophysicist Katie Mack, delving into quantum mechanics, cosmology, and string theory to uncover potential fates of our universe based on current scientific understanding.

• YouTube
• 54 minutes
• Self-Paced
• Free Video

The Million Dollar Equations - With Tom Crawford

Explore four of the seven unsolved million-dollar math problems, including the Riemann hypothesis and P vs NP, with Oxford mathematician Tom Crawford in this engaging lecture on complex mathematical concepts.

• YouTube
• 1 hour 12 minutes
• Self-Paced
• Free Video

The Curious World of Springs - Szydlo's At Home Science

Explore the fascinating world of springs, from pocket watches to car suspensions. Discover their diverse applications, mechanical principles, and historical significance through engaging demonstrations and experiments.

• YouTube
• 37 minutes
• Self-Paced
• Free Video

The Science of Light and Lasers - Szydlo's At Home Science

Explore the fascinating journey of light and laser science, from Newton's prisms to modern applications, in this comprehensive lecture covering key discoveries, theories, and technological advancements.

• YouTube
• 58 minutes
• Self-Paced
• Free Video

Cancer, Evolution and the Science of Life – With Kat Arney

Explore cancer's evolutionary origins, its presence across species, and modern treatment approaches. Gain insights into cellular behavior, genetic mutations, and the ongoing battle against this ancient disease.

• YouTube
• 1 hour 14 minutes
• Self-Paced
• Free Video

What's the Real Meaning of Quantum Mechanics? - With Jim Baggott

Explore popular interpretations of quantum mechanics and the concept of 'reality' in physics. Delve into key experiments, debates, and philosophical implications of quantum theory.

• YouTube
• 1 hour
• Self-Paced
• Free Video

The Archimedes Principle - Szydlo's At Home Science

Explore Archimedes' principle through engaging experiments, from ancient Sicily to modern applications, covering liquids, gases, and buoyancy in this comprehensive science demonstration.

• YouTube
• 36 minutes
• Self-Paced
• Free Video