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Dec 25
44m 17s

How do scissors curl ribbon?

Melissa and Jam, Bleav
About this episode
In this festive episode, Melissa and Jam delve into the fascinating science behind why ribbons curl when pressed against a blade. The discussion covers polymers, their molecular structures, and the forces at play during this process. With a blend of personal holiday memories and a detailed analogy involving crocheted yarn, the duo makes complex chemistry acc ... Show More
Up next
Jan 8
Ask a Chemist: Are X-rays really bad for you? (and other questions)
Question and Response #74 Melissa and Jam dive into a series of fascinating chemistry questions submitted by listeners. They explore how food affects the absorption rate of alcohol in the blood, the science behind shelf-stable milk turning solid after opening, and why dogs' feet ... Show More
37m 9s
Jan 2
What is iodized salt? And why?
#077 Who's doing what to our salt? What's iodine, do we need it, why, and how do they get it in there? This week Melissa and Jam dive head first into figurative iodized salt dunes. Let's take a closer look at the chemistry of something so everyday, we hardly even think about it. ... Show More
37m 19s
Dec 18
What makes firecrackers go pop?
#227 The Chemistry Behind Firecrackers and Christmas Crackers Melissa and Jam delve into the chemistry behind firecrackers and Christmas crackers. They discuss the key component, silver fulminate, explaining its unstable nature and how it reacts to create the explosive effects. T ... Show More
46m 47s
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