Treasures of the Earth: Power

NOVA brings you stories from the frontlines of science and engineering, answering the big questions of today and tomorrow, from how our ancestors lived, to whether parallel universes exist, to how technology will transform our lives. Visit the official website to watch full-length documentaries, or explore our world through short-form video, on our digital publication NOVA Next.

RMPBS Passport

Please log in to your PBS Passport account to watch this video

Become a Member

Treasures of the Earth: Power

Season 43 Episode 20 | 53m 10s | CC

Drill down to discover the treasures beneath our feet that power our world. Fossil fuels–coal, oil, and natural gas–powered the industrial revolution and allowed us to build a way of life that many cherish today. Personal cars, planes, lights, hot showers–all of these are gifts from our fossil fuels… but they have a dirty dark side in that they are polluting the planet.

NOVA

Watch more episodes

53:40

NOVA

Treasures of the Earth: Metals

What is it about the nature of metals that have made them a pillar of human civilization?

52:52

NOVA

Secret Tunnel Warfare

In WW1 Allied troops tunneled under enemy lines to create the biggest explosion ever seen.

53:07

NOVA

Life's Rocky Start

What is the secret link between rocks and minerals, and every living thing on Earth?

National Corporate funding for NOVA is provided by Carlisle Companies and Viking Cruises. Major funding for NOVA is provided by the NOVA Science Trust and PBS viewers.

Subscribe to Our Newsletters

Get trusted Colorado stories, programs, and events from Rocky Mountain PBS straight to your inbox.

Set Your Preferences >