The PBS Science series NOVA announced on Thursday that it has released the NOVA Elements app, which teaches users about the periodic table of elements, for Windows 8.1.
Nova Elements was developed by the WGBH Science Unit, which said the app provides users with a variety of games and tools to help them learn about the elements and build 3D rotatable models of molecules found in common objects "like a banana or a watch," according to PC Magazine. The unit is also known for producing the television series NOVA.
"The NOVA Elements app allows us to engage Nova fans or anyone interested in science in the kind of open-ended exploration that promotes deep learning," said Paula Apsell, senior executive producer of Nova and director of the WGBH Science Unit. "It goes beyond broadcast programming on a fundamental topic- exploring the elements and how they are the building blocks for people, planets, and everything around us."
The app also includes a two-hour NOVA special called "Hunting the Elements," which is hosted by tech expert David Pogue, Broadway World reported. Pogue teaches viewers about the 118 elements of the periodic table, which includes 90 elements that are naturally-occuring and elements that were created by scientists.
However, NOVA fans will only be able to stream the complete special in the U.S. and its territories.
Apsell also mentioned another feature in NOVA Elements called an "atomic sandbox," which allows users to build any of the elements on the periodic table. Users will be able to construct them by adding the correct number of protons, neutrons, and electrons. The app also includes a game called "My Essential Elements," in which users can create their own 3D models of common molecules with their constructed elements.
Sharing achievements and discoveries on Twitter is also possible with the app, Broadway World reported.
Microsoft Smooth Streaming is used in NOVA Elements so the video quality can keep adjusting based on the user's computer and network conditions. The app also uses Microsoft DirectX to make sure it maintains high quality.
NOVA Elements for Windows 8.1 can be downloaded for free in the Windows Store, according to PC Magazine.
WGBH Boston's Nova is produced for PBS and is now in its 41st season. The show is watched by an average of five million viewers a week.
