How do batteries power our electronics?

What exactly is a swamp cooler, and why can it beat the heat in Arizona but leave you sweaty and betrayed in Houston? How can an air conditioner run on water, what does humidity have to do with its effectiveness, and could an icy new invention help prevent overloaded power grids? ...  Show more

Could a cheaper, more environmentally friendly refrigerant already exist, and could corporate lobbying be helping keep it out of American air conditioners? Why did the chemicals once hailed as safe alternatives become environmental villains, and are their replacements actually mu ...  Show more

In this special podcast produced in partnership with Waters Corporation, find out how understanding the chemistry and materials that go into batteries marks the first step towards making them safer and increasing energy density, and unlocks new opportunities for reuse and recycli ...  Show more

A mountain, a tower, a thermos full of molten salt: These are the batteries that could power our renewable future. For more, go to http://vox.com/unexplainable It’s a great place to view show transcripts and read more about the topics on our show. Also, email us! unexplainable@vo ...  Show more

Cars rely on batteries to keep their electrical parts running and alternators to keep their batteries alive. Battery lights come into play when there's a charging problem. Find out more about battery lights in this podcast from HowStuffWorks.com.

A listener asked to learn more about fast recharging technologies, so we take a look at the history and evolution of batteries, what happens with rechargeable batteries and the complicated mess of fast recharging solutions. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpo ...  Show more