Mars is often called the 'Red Planet.' This is because it appears in the sky as an orange-red star. The colour caused the ancient Greeks and Romans to name it after their god of war. Today, we know that the planet's appearance is due to iron rust in the Martian rocks, thanks to visiting spacecrafts. The soil and rocks on the surface of Mars contained a dust composed mostly of iron and small amounts of other elements such as chlorine and sulphur.

Have you ever wondered why the ocean is blue in colour? This is because water absorbs colours in the red part of the light spectrum. This leaves behind colours in the blue part of the light spectrum for us to see just like a filter. The ocean may also take on other colours like red, green or other hues as light bounces off of floating sediments and particles in the water. Fascinating, isn't it?

Has this thought ever occurred to you about why snow is white in colour? Snow wouldn't be snow if it wasn't white. Say the word 'snow' in your head and the first thing that may come to your mind will either be an image of lovely snow-capped mountains or an image of small, fluffy white particles falling from the sky in winter. But if you think about it, isn't it strange that snow is flawlessly white since it is just a bunch of ice crystals stuck together? And if you observe, ice crystals are colourless and translucent. So where does it get its distinctive colour? There is a scientific reason that snow is white. Light is scattered and bounces off the ice crystals in the snow. The reflected light includes all the colours, which, when combined together look white.

Setting your ladder before painting a wall can be tricky. You may find it confusing to use an extension ladder. Don't worry; we are here to help you! Extension ladders are usually comprised of two sections. There can be three sections on very long ladders. The stationary section is the one with the feet attached. Note that it should always remain in contact with the ground, and be placed closest to the structure that it is leaning against. Quite simple, isn't it?

Confused how to use a paint roller? Apply the paint on the desired wall with one sweeping stroke. Start out from the bottom and 6 inches away from the corner and roll upwards at a slight angle using very little pressure. Stop a few inches from the ceiling, roll up and down back toward the corner to spread the paint. You can leave the paint build up and roller marks at this step. Reload the roller and repeat the entire process in the adjacent space, working back toward the painted area. Roll back over the entire area that you have covered to smooth and blend the paint. Don't reload the roller with paint but use very light pressure. Keep these pointers in mind before you pick up a roller next time!

Have you ever used a paint sprayer for the walls of your home? When using a paint sprayer, you should dilute the paint that is to be sprayed. Don't know how to dilute the paint? The amount of dilution required will depend on the original viscosity (thickness) of the paint. It is best to test the paint you intend to use first. If it needs to be diluted, this can be done step-by-step to help you find the perfect consistency.