Revolution in the air: how laughing gas changed the world

Mark Miodownik, a materials science expert and writer, takes us on a captivating journey through the history of nitrous oxide. He discusses its transformation from a 18th-century novelty to a groundbreaking anesthetic that changed medicine. Miodownik shares insights on early experiments with various anesthetics and recounts Queen Victoria’s role in promoting chloroform. He also explores the cultural implications of laughing gas today, including its recreational use, highlighting its surreal and euphoric effects on consciousness.