A Problem Squared 112 = Staring Safely At The Sun and Celebrations Off By One
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Jun 23, 2025 Can you safely look at the sun? Discover the science of solar viewing and the distances needed for eye safety. The hosts also grapple with the quirks of anniversary celebrations, discussing the infamous 'off by one' mistake. Dive into the thrill of live comedy performances and the unique dynamics of audience expectations. Plus, hear amusing anecdotes about preparations for the Edinburgh Fringe and some mathematical musings about dice in casinos. The blend of humor and science makes for an engaging and enlightening discussion!
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Matt's Anonymous Comedy Gig
- Matt Parker describes doing a "real gig" anonymously at a small comedy club after a long time off stage.
- He performed without prior promotion, testing his comedy skills on an unfamiliar audience.
Why Sun Damages Eyes Chemically
- Looking directly at the sun risks retinal damage, mainly a chemical burn not from heat.
- Our eyes focus sunlight strongly, causing photochemical damage even if heat isn't high enough to burn.
Eye Sensitivity Linked to Sunlight
- Retina sensitivity evolved to the sun's visible light spectrum which passes Earth's atmosphere.
- The atmosphere filters harmful UV and IR; eyes adapt to frequencies that cause retinal response but risk damage if overwhelmed.
