February 7, 2025
Some research shows that e-cigarettes can be a useful tool for quitting cigarettes, but that strategy is hotly contested by scientists. Plus, an investigative journalist outlines how fraud and misconduct have stalled the search for effective Alzheimer’s treatments in a new book. And, why snow has that crisp, clean smell.
11:56
A Warning For When A Lithium-Ion Battery Is About To Explode
Damaged lithium-ion batteries can cause deadly explosions. An algorithm could help detect when they’re about to happen.
17:22
Protecting Against Poison Exposure This Holiday Season
It’s not poinsettias: A medical toxicologist discusses the most common household risks to kids during the holiday season.
17:20
2024’s Best Science Books For Kids
You asked for science book recommendations for the kids in your life. Two bookworm experts respond—and share their own favorites.
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Join Us Live With Astronauts Aboard The Space Station
Watch astronauts answer student questions about space research and daily life aboard the station—live from space!
Join Us Live With Astronauts Aboard The International Space Station
Watch astronauts answer student questions about space research and daily life aboard the station—live from space!
11:48
Alan Alda Reflects On Life With Parkinson’s
In a conversation from 2018, Alan Alda discusses how being a science communicator makes him think differently about a life-changing diagnosis.
17:38
A Nobel Prize For Chemistry Work ‘Totally Separate From Biology’
In a conversation from 2022, Dr. Carolyn Bertozzi discusses bioorthogonal chemistry, which could have applications in chemotherapy.
17:04
What Was It Like To Witness The End Of The Dinosaurs?
In a conversation from 2022, Riley Black discusses what happened after a massive asteroid hit Earth.
47:55
A Theatrical Tribute To Unexpected Science
This year’s Ig Nobel Prizes include awards for studying coin flipping, the movements of a dead trout, and more.
Puerto Rico y la ciencia espacial después de Arecibo
¿Cómo llenar el vacío del radiotelescopio más potente del mundo? Cuatro años después de su colapso, comienza un nuevo capítulo.
How Metaphors Help—And Hurt—Science
Metaphors can help us understand complicated scientific concepts. But they can also have a downside.
‘Gladiator II’ And The Evidence For Colosseum Naval Battles
Lots of moments from “Gladiator II” are fiction. But some scientists think mock naval battles in the Colosseum totally happened.
11:44
SpaceX’s Starship Completes In-Orbit Engine Test
This was the sixth test launch of the Starship vehicle, which could eventually carry humans and cargo to the moon. It was extremely loud.
10:51
The Struggle To Restore Drinking Water After Hurricane Helene
Fifty-three days after Hurricane Helene, residents of Asheville can safely drink their tap water without boiling it. Why did it take so long?
5:39
Using Oyster Shell Reefs To Counter Sea Level Rise In Louisiana
Tribes’ historic lands on the Gulf Coast are being lost to the sea. To slow it down, one tribe has turned to oyster shells.
12:28
Michigan-Based Team To Resuscitate Shipwrecked Rye Seeds
Divers have recovered seeds of a long-lost rye variety from a 146-year-old shipwreck in Lake Huron. Scientists hope to bring it back to life.
16:54
A Nutritionist Clarifies Some Common Health Claims
Is seed oil bad for you? What’s the deal with apple cider vinegar? A nutritionist answers your questions about viral nutrition claims.
10:31
A Horn Of Potato Plenty
Just in time for Thanksgiving, a potato researcher explains potato varieties, potato nutrition, and some tubular tuber facts.
6:55
Adding Marbling To Fake Meat For That Extra-Realistic Bite
Irregular, fatty marbling gives meat a unique texture. Recreating that in plant-based products isn’t easy.