Something Rhymes with Purple Purpuriam (Pp)
Jan 26, 2021
Gyles and Susie dive into the fascinating world of science and chemistry, decoding the periodic table through myth and history. Discover how names like helium and platinum find their roots in mythology and geography. They also explore the etymology of vital lab terms like the Bunsen burner and Petri dish. With amusing anecdotes about pharmacy histories and language quirks, Gyles even serenades the audience! Plus, learn intriguing vocabulary words like 'scribacious' and 'lucubration' along the way.
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The Two-Cultures Trap
- Dividing culture into 'arts' and 'science' impoverishes both fields and limits individuals' opportunities.
- Gyles Brandreth regrets choosing arts over science and urges broader engagement with scientific learning.
Names Tell Element Stories
- The periodic table orders elements and encodes history via names and symbols.
- Susie Dent highlights how Latin roots (e.g., plumbum → Pb) explain modern spellings and terminology.
Chemistry's Ancient Roots
- 'Chemistry' derives from alchemy and likely an Arabic form linked to an Egyptian name for Egypt (Khem).
- That origin preserves ancient ties between early chemical arts and the Nile's 'black' soil.
