What IS fire? (and what happened in Beirut?)

#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

#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 ...  Show more

What is chemistry? Neil deGrasse Tyson and comedian Chuck Nice take fan questions on exothermic reactions, PFAS, ice cream, sugar, fire, and more with Kate Biberdorf, aka Kate the Chemist.

NOTE: StarTalk+ Patrons can listen to this entire episode commercial-free here: 

Looking to level up in 2026? The Chemical Executive Mastermind brings senior chemical leaders together for trusted peer perspective. Learn more at grow.thechemicalshow.com/mastermind.Sponsored by: World Petrochemical Conference by S&P Global on March 23-27, 2026.Use the code CHEM ...  Show more

Join Jame, Callum and Pals for a discussion on some highlights from FIS 2023: https://microbiologysociety.org/event/full-events-listing/federation-of-infec ...

Why is it so hard to get a picture of the Milky Way? How much of our galaxy have we mapped? What the heck is a "barred spiral" and what does that have to do with our core? I discuss these questions and more in today's Ask a Spaceman!