Chemistry For Your Life

#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. 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 Support this podcast on Patreon Buy Podcast Merch and Apparel Check out our website at chemforyourlife.com Watch our episodes on YouTube Find us on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook @ChemForYourLife 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 Scott Beyer 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 Support this podcast on Patreon Buy Podcast Merch and Apparel Check out our website at chemforyourlife.com Watch our episodes on YouTube Find us on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook @ChemForYourLife Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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 Support this podcast on Patreon Buy Podcast Merch and Apparel Check out our website at chemforyourlife.com Watch our episodes on YouTube Find us on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook @ChemForYourLife 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 Scott Beyer 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 Support this podcast on Patreon Buy Podcast Merch and Apparel Check out our website at chemforyourlife.com Watch our episodes on YouTube Find us on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook @ChemForYourLife Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

#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 Support this podcast on Patreon Buy Podcast Merch and Apparel Check out our website at chemforyourlife.com Watch our episodes on YouTube Find us on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook @ChemForYourLife 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 Scott Beyer 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 Support this podcast on Patreon Buy Podcast Merch and Apparel Check out our website at chemforyourlife.com Watch our episodes on YouTube Find us on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook @ChemForYourLife Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

#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. Support this podcast on Patreon Buy Podcast Merch and Apparel Check out our website at chemforyourlife.com Watch our episodes on YouTube Find us on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook @ChemForYourLife References from this episode http://scienceline.ucsb.edu/getkey.php?key=703 Dr. Weber PhD in Physical Chemistry, University of North Texas Chemistry, Edition 1 - Julia Burdge Melissa's Previous Knowledge   Thanks to our monthly supporters Amanda Raymond Emily Morrison Kyle McCray Justine Emily Hardy Ash Vince W Julie S. Heather Ragusa Autoclave Chelsea Morelos Dorien VD Scott Beyer 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 Support this podcast on Patreon Buy Podcast Merch and Apparel Check out our website at chemforyourlife.com Watch our episodes on YouTube Find us on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook @ChemForYourLife   Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

#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 Support this podcast on Patreon Buy Podcast Merch and Apparel Check out our website at chemforyourlife.com Watch our episodes on YouTube Find us on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook @ChemForYourLife Thanks to our monthly supporters Amanda Raymond Emily Morrison Kyle McCray Justine Emily Hardy Ash Vince W Julie S. Heather Ragusa Autoclave Chelsea Morelos Dorien VD Scott Beyer 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 Support this podcast on Patreon Buy Podcast Merch and Apparel Check out our website at chemforyourlife.com Watch our episodes on YouTube Find us on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook @ChemForYourLife Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.