Melissa and Jam delve into the fascinating chemistry behind fireflies' bioluminescence. They explore how fireflies produce light through a complex series of chemical reactions involving specific molecules like luciferin and enzymes like luciferase. The discussion extends to how these mechanisms find applications in scientific research, such as identifying tu ... Show More
Nov 20
Reddit Chemistry: Mishaps, Mentorship, and More
<p><strong>#225</strong></p>
<p>Melissa and Jam take a break from traditional chemistry topics to delve into chemistry-related stories from Reddit. They discuss a funny sunscreen mishap, give advice to a student struggling in chemistry, and navigate complex interpersonal situatio ... Show More
34m 38s
Nov 13
Ask a Chemist: Why are skunks so potent? (and other questions)
<p><strong>Question and Response 72</strong></p>
<p>Melissa and Jam tackle a variety of listener questions about chemistry-related topics. They discuss the differences between conductors, semiconductors, and superconductors, and delve into why minty things feel cold and spicy thi ... Show More
28m 4s
Sep 26
The Dead Composer Whose ‘Brain’ Still Makes Music
In a hauntingly innovative exhibit, brain cells grown from the late composer Alvin Lucier’s blood generate sound. Set in a museum in Perth, Australia, the installation blurs the line between art and neuroscience. Host Rachel Feltman and associate editor Allison Parshall explore t ... Show More
25m 25s
Feb 2025
Valentine’s Day Isn’t Just for Romance—The Science of Deep Friendships
Love isn’t just about romance. This Valentine’s Day, we’re exploring the power of deep nonromantic bonds. Host Rachel Feltman sits down with Rhaina Cohen, a producer and editor for NPR’s podcast Embedded and author of The Other Significant Others, to discuss the history and psych ... Show More
17m 2s
Aug 22
Could Peanut Allergies Be Cured?
Peanut allergies have surged dramatically in recent decades, and scientists are still working to understand why. In this episode, journalist Maryn Mckenna, who recently authored an article on the subject, and host Rachel Feltman explore the latest research on causes, treatments a ... Show More
20m 29s
Apr 2025
Explosive Science with Kate the Chemist
<p>What are chemical reactions like in space? Neil deGrasse Tyson and Chuck Nice team up with Kate the Chemist to explore how cesium helps us tell time, the elusive quest for the periodic table’s “island of stability,” how AI is revolutionizing chemistry, and more!</p><p>NOTE: St ... Show More
54m 29s