Distillations - The Chemistry Podcast
Series produced by Chemical Heritage Foundation
Extracts from the Past, Present, and Future of Chemistry
Distillations is a bi-monthly show that provides historical perspective on current scientific issues. Join host Meir Rinde for interviews, monologues, reviews, features, and more.
127 Pieces
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In this episode we look at the modern power grid, which is on the brink of important changes. First, why the smart grid matters. Then, the critical...
- Added: May 15, 2013
- Length: 17:06
In this episode we look at questionable appearance enhancers. First the Beauty Historian shares some shocking beauty rituals of yore. Then a look a...
- Added: Apr 30, 2013
- Length: 15:25
In this episode we investigate the science beneath our streets. First how a team of amateur speleologists are keeping Howe Caverns safe. Then a loo...
- Added: Apr 30, 2013
- Length: 16:35
In this episode we learn how advances in urban agriculture are providing new access to fresh food. First, how hundreds of tons of fishbones are cle...
- Added: Apr 03, 2013
- Length: 18:33
In this episode we see old bones made new again. First the ongoing restoration of Philadelphia's 19th Street Baptist Church. Then a discussion abou...
- Added: Mar 20, 2013
- Length: 17:11
In this episode, chemistry takes center stage. First, why science and comedy make gut-busting bedfellows. Then the history of science as popular en...
- Added: Mar 11, 2013
- Length: 21:38
During decades of tension between the United States and the Soviet Union over the course of the Cold War, both sides wielded science as a weapon. F...
- Added: Feb 19, 2013
- Length: 15:04
Just in time for Valentine's Day we explore the sexier side of alchemy. Historian Joel Klein explains how alchemists used passionate prose to disgu...
- Added: Feb 05, 2013
- Length: 13:59
Today your taste buds take center stage. First, how super-tasters' genetic gift might afford them better health. Then the art of imitation flavors.
- Added: Jan 23, 2013
- Length: 16:09
In this episode we peel back our skin. First, an innovative technology that could provide early detection of osteoporosis. Then, a look at stone ma...
- Added: Jan 11, 2013
- Length: 16:24
Treasure or toxin? In this episode we follow Teflon's rise from happy accident to indispensable tool at work, home, and even war.
- Added: Nov 15, 2012
- Length: 15:14
In this episode we welcome back author Sam Kean to discuss the secrets and surprises contained in our DNA.
- Added: Oct 31, 2012
- Length: 12:22
In this episode, a conversation between two alchemy experts: James Voelkel, who curated CHF’s exhibit The Alchemical Quest, and Lawrence Principe, ...
- Added: Oct 18, 2012
- Length: 13:58
On today's show we track the evolution of smog from symbol of industrial progress to public-health catastrophe.
- Added: Oct 09, 2012
- Length: 14:19
In this episode we test your gag reflex. First an exploration of rank, funky cheeses made from your own body's bacteria. Then the history of how di...
- Added: Sep 18, 2012
- Length: 13:13
Good science takes time... or not? On today's show we explore the extremes. First the longest-running experiment in the world; then the near-instan...
- Added: Aug 29, 2012
- Length: 14:12
We bring you some of our favorite segments from past Distillations episodes this week: attempts to contact aliens in space and the secret behind th...
- Added: Aug 04, 2012
- Length: 15:34
We bring you some of our favorite segments from past Distillations episodes this week: animal communication in the Sonoran Desert and the toll of a...
- Added: Aug 04, 2012
- Length: 13:33
In this episode we cross the Atlantic to learn what makes a perfect cuppa. Then we learn about the surprising health benefits of Marmite, a spreada...
- Added: May 29, 2012
- Length: 15:27
Big eyes, soft skin, squeezable cheeks. No doubt, babies are adorable. But in this episode we take a break from our cooing to examine some more ser...
- Added: May 16, 2012
- Length: 13:43
