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 might smell like Fritos. The duo also answers an intriguing question about the risks of dental X-rays versus ultraviolet radiation from the sun. Additionally, they discuss a fun science experiment involving dissolving candy canes in different liquids, providing a perfect activity for kids to learn about the world of chemistry. Special thanks to the community members and listeners whose questions keep the show engaging and informative.

00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview
02:23 How Food Affects Alcohol Absorption
06:42 Shelf-Stable Protein Shakes
10:26 Why Do Dogs' Feet Smell Like Fritos?
14:49 The Risks of X-Rays
17:56 Understanding Dental X-Ray Radiation
18:39 Annual Radiation Dose and Safety
19:32 Comparing Risks: Dental Issues vs. X-Rays
20:12 Why X-Ray Technicians Use Shields
20:59 Explaining Radiation Risks to the Public
22:55 Fun Science Experiments for Kids
25:31 Explaining Polarity and Dissolution to Kids
30:47 Encouraging Scientific Curiosity in Children
34:41 Supporting the Show and Community Shoutouts

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References from the Episode:

1. https://youtu.be/30_QRAC6XOU
2. https://www.abc.ca.gov/education/licensee-education/alcohol-facts/#:~:text=Alcohol%20does%20not%20require%20digestion,Therefore%2C%20food%20slows%20intoxication.
3. https://www.epa.gov/radiation/radiation-sources-and-doses
4. https://www.epa.gov/radiation/calculate-your-radiation-dose
5. https://www.nrc.gov/about-nrc/radiation/around-us/doses-daily-lives
6. https://ehs.stanford.edu/manual/radiation-protection-guidance-hospital-staff/natural-sources-radiation#:~:text=Cosmic%20radiation%20comes%20from%20the,approximately%2028%20mrem%20per%20year.

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#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.

References from this episode

1. https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/es0719071
2. https://pubs-acs-org.libproxy.library.unt.edu/doi/10.1021/ed077p984#:~:text=The%20presence%20of%20iodine%20in,in%20preventing%20simple%20endemic%20goiter
3. https://pubs.acs.org/doi/pdf/10.1021/ed062p1016
4. https://www.acs.org/content/acs/en/education/resources/highschool/chemmatters/past-issues/2015-2016/february-2016/salt-facts.html
5. https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/strange-but-true-drinking-too-much-water-can-kill/

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• Autoclave
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• Cullyn R
• Erica Bee
• Elizabeth P
• Rachel Reina
• Letila
• Katrina Barnum-Huckins
• Suzanne Phillips
• Venus Rebholz
• Jacob Taber
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• Kristina Gotfredsen
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• Chris Skupien
• Chelsea B
• Avishai Barnoy
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#228

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 accessible and fun for all listeners. They also share their favorite holiday traditions and movies, making this episode a blend of heartwarming stories and educational content.

00:00 Guess the Sound Game
01:37 Introducing the Topic: Curly Ribbon Science
03:51 Chemistry Behind Curly Ribbon
04:20 Polymers and Their Properties
05:59 Crochet Analogy for Polymers
12:23 Molecular Mechanics of Ribbon Curling
15:34 Practical Tips for Perfect Ribbon Curls
19:36 Holiday Reflections and Chemistry Recap
22:37 Understanding Polymer Behavior
24:28 Molecular Forces and Rearrangement
28:02 Holiday Traditions and Memories
36:33 Favorite Christmas Movies
40:37 Wrapping Up and Listener Shoutouts

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References from the Episode:

1. https://books.byui.edu/plastics_materials_a/plastic_high_strain_#:~:text=The%20molecular%20interpretation%20(in%20polymers,rupture%20and%20the%20sample%20breaks.
2. https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acs.macromol.0c02076https://www.bbc.com/news/science-environment-35809116.amp
3. https://www.pnas.org/doi/10.1073/pnas.1514626113
4. https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/ba-1993-0233.ch005
5. https://courses.ems.psu.edu/matse81/node/2109

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#227

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. The discussion also touches on the octet rule, formal charges, and isomers. Along with sharing personal experiences and pranks involving firecrackers, they also recount historical debates between chemists over the discovery of isomers and their eventual agreement. The episode highlights the importance of chemistry in understanding everyday phenomena and ensuring safety.

00:00 Introduction and Firecracker Anecdotes
00:58 Chemistry of Firecrackers
04:53 Explosive Chemistry Explained
19:55 Historical Discoveries and Isomers
24:20 The Origins of a Scientific Discovery
24:48 Friendship and Scientific Collaboration
25:24 Understanding Isotopes and Isomers
27:20 Chemistry Behind Christmas Crackers
30:26 Fireworks and Safety Concerns
35:52 Fire Alarms and Home Safety
42:33 Supporting the Show and Community Shoutouts

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References from the Episode:

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• Amanda Raymond
• Emily Morrison
• Kyle McCray
• Justine
• Emily Hardy
• Ash
• Vince W
• Julie S.
• Heather Ragusa
• Autoclave
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• J0HNTR0Y
• Jeannette Napoleon
• Cullyn R
• Erica Bee
• Elizabeth P
• Rachel Reina
• Letila
• Katrina Barnum-Huckins
• Suzanne Phillips
• Venus Rebholz
• Jacob Taber
• Brian Kimball
• Kristina Gotfredsen
• Timothy Parker
• Steven Boyles
• Chris Skupien
• Chelsea B
• Avishai Barnoy
• Hunter Reardon

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Ask a Chemist #73

Melissa and Jam tackle a range of listener questions covering a wide array of chemistry-related topics. They discuss the properties of polymers found in diapers, the science behind bubbles, the controversy surrounding cast iron vs. Teflon cookware, and the fascinating world of superconducting magnets. The episode also underscores the importance of ventilating your kitchen, the peculiarities of cling film, and the quirks of silicone products. Along the way, Melissa shares personal anecdotes, and they even address some humorous and intriguing comments from listeners. Tune in for a mix of chemistry insights and light-hearted banter.

00:00 Introduction and Funny Classroom Anecdote
01:44 Chemistry for Your Life Podcast Introduction
04:17 Listener Questions: Diapers and Polymers
07:30 Listener Questions: The Science of Bubbles
10:05 Listener Questions: Balloons and Static Electricity
12:11 Listener Questions: Cast Iron and Teflon
14:45 Listener Questions: Chapstick and Moisturizers
15:48 Nostalgic Memories and Copyright Concerns
16:23 Sweater Talk and Community References
16:57 Superconducting Magnets Explained
18:46 Cling Film Mysteries and Silicone Solutions
22:13 Silicone and Broth Storage Solutions
26:11 Listener Comments and Feedback
31:40 Wrapping Up and Community Shoutouts

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References from the Episode:

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• Cullyn R
• Erica Bee
• Elizabeth P
• Rachel Reina
• Letila
• Katrina Barnum-Huckins
• Suzanne Phillips
• Venus Rebholz
• Jacob Taber
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#226

Melissa and Jam delve into the intriguing world of X-rays. They start with relatable stories from the dentist's office and transition into a deep dive into how X-rays work. Key topics include the electromagnetic spectrum, how X-rays are generated, why some materials allow X-rays to pass through while others don't, and the potential risks associated with repeated exposure. They also share personal anecdotes about broken bones and medical X-ray experiences, as well as shout out to community members who support the show. Join Melissa and Jam as they unravel the chemistry behind X-rays and their impact on our daily lives.

00:00 A Trip to the Dentist
01:00 Shoutouts and Inspirations
01:32 Introduction to X-Rays
04:04 Understanding the Electromagnetic Spectrum
05:38 How X-Rays Work
09:40 The Science Behind X-Ray Imaging
14:52 Generating X-Rays
17:23 Energy Waves and Electrons
19:57 Understanding X-rays and Their Risks
20:55 Comparing X-ray Exposure to Sunlight
21:35 Family Concerns About X-rays
22:33 Technological Advances in X-ray Safety
22:49 Summarizing X-ray Risks and Benefits
26:31 Personal Stories of X-rays and Broken Bones
39:26 Supporting the Show and Community

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References from the Episode:

Thanks to our monthly supporters

• Amanda Raymond
• Emily Morrison
• Kyle McCray
• Justine
• Emily Hardy
• Ash
• Vince W
• Julie S.
• Heather Ragusa
• Autoclave
• Dorien VD
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• Jessie Reder
• J0HNTR0Y
• Jeannette Napoleon
• Cullyn R
• Erica Bee
• Elizabeth P
• Rachel Reina
• Letila
• Katrina Barnum-Huckins
• Suzanne Phillips
• Venus Rebholz
• Jacob Taber
• Brian Kimball
• Kristina Gotfredsen
• Timothy Parker
• Steven Boyles
• Chris Skupien
• Chelsea B
• Avishai Barnoy
• Hunter Reardon

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#018 Rebroadcast

This week Melissa and Jam explore the chemistry of aluminum foil. Why doesn’t it feel hot when we take it out of the oven? How does it cool down so quickly? We harken back to a previous episode about specific heat a few times in this episode, listen to that one by clicking here.

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References from this episode

1. http://scienceline.ucsb.edu/getkey.php?key=703
2. Dr. Weber PhD in Physical Chemistry, University of North Texas
3. Chemistry, Edition 1 - Julia Burdge
4. Melissa's Previous Knowledge

Thanks to our monthly supporters

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#225

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 situations involving TA duties and friend dynamics. Throughout the episode, they provide insightful commentary and useful advice, all while keeping the conversation light and engaging. They also promote their new 'chemist Tree' holiday sweater and remind listeners of the importance of supporting their show.

00:00 Introduction and Holiday Sweater Promotion
01:57 Reddit Stories: Chemists and Academia
04:23 Reddit Story: Sunscreen Mishap
10:14 Reddit Story: Office Hours Tips
14:29 Reddit Story: Organic Chemistry Lab Etiquette
15:58 The Backpack Incident
16:25 Student's Mental Struggles
17:01 Lab Safety and Regulations
17:52 Handling Student Complaints
19:07 Empathy and Support for Students
23:00 Navigating Negative Feedback
23:48 Sharing Notes and Tutoring Ethics
32:37 Final Thoughts and Community Engagement

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Thanks to our monthly supporters

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• Cullyn R
• Erica Bee
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• Letila
• Katrina Barnum-Huckins
• Suzanne Phillips
• Venus Rebholz
• Jacob Taber
• Brian Kimball
• Kristina Gotfredsen
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• Steven Boyles
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• Hunter Reardon

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