Journey to the Microcosmos: The Colors of the Microcosmos
Videos are generally available for preview to non-members as short clips. Limited full-length titles are also available. Log In to view the full length title.
Browse Full-length Non-member Titles
"Journey to the Microcosmos: The Colors of the Microcosmos" explores how microbes appear under a microscope and explains the science behind their vivid colors. Using examples such as amoebas, cyanobacteria, diatoms, Euglena, and Haematococcus, the video connects microscopy, microbiology, physics, and chemistry through concepts including visible light, wavelengths, reflection, absorption, chlorophyll, carotenoids, phycocyanin, photosynthesis, and endosymbiosis. It shows how microbial pigments support survival by capturing light energy or protecting cells from ultraviolet radiation, while also highlighting scientific applications such as fluorescent imaging and pigment research. This content supports life science and physical science curricula by linking cell-scale observation to energy transfer, evolution, and the properties of light. Part of the "Journey to the Microcosmos" series.
Media Details
Runtime: 9 minutes, 37 seconds
- Topic: Science
- Subtopic: Biology, Cells, Chemistry, Microbiology, Microscopy, Physics, Physiology
- Grade/Interest Level: 9 - 12
- Standards:
- Release Year: 2019
- Producer/Distributor: Complexly
- Series: Journey to the Microcosmos
- Report a Problem
Related Media
Journey to the Microcosmos: Meet the Microcosmos
Journey to the Microcosmos: How Microscopic Hunters Get Their Lunch
Journey to the Microcosmos: Stentors--Single-Celled Giants
Journey to the Microcosmos: How Do Microorganisms Reproduce?
Journey to the Microcosmos: Where Did Eukaryotic Cells Come From?
Journey to the Microcosmos: Tardigrades--Chubby, Misunderstood, & Not Immortal
Journey to the Microcosmos: How Do Protozoa Get Around?
Journey to the Microcosmos: Diatoms--Tiny Factories You Can See From Space
Journey to the Microcosmos: Mysterious Jiggly Crystals and Other Intracellular Structures
Journey to the Microcosmos: How Do Colonies Help Microorganisms Survive?