

Science Quickly
Scientific American
Host Rachel Feltman, alongside leading science and tech journalists, dives into the rich world of scientific discovery in this bite-size science variety show.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Aug 13, 2018 • 4min
Crickets Carve Tools to Amplify Their Chirps
Discover how tree crickets use leaf baffles to amplify their chirping and the implications for animal intelligence and tool use.

Aug 10, 2018 • 4min
Computerized Chemical Toxicity Prediction Beats Animal Testing
Researchers have developed a computer program that can predict the toxicity of chemicals more accurately than animal testing by analyzing chemical structures. The program uses machine learning algorithms and a vast database of animal tests for risk assessment.

Aug 9, 2018 • 4min
Better Data Could Mean Better Dating
The podcast discusses the use of online dating data to study desirability and mate pursuit. It explores how people tend to pursue partners just 25% more desirable than themselves, revealing the concept of 'optimistic realists' in the dating market.

Aug 8, 2018 • 4min
To Evolve Baleen, Lose Your Teeth First
The podcast discusses the evolution of baleen whales, suggesting that they never had teeth and baleen at the same time. It explores the transition from teeth to baleen and the coexistence of these structures in early species.

Aug 7, 2018 • 3min
Corn Variety Grabs Fertilizer from the Air
Discover a type of corn from Oaxaca, Mexico that obtains nitrogen from the air through nitrogen-fixing bacteria in its aerial roots.

Aug 2, 2018 • 3min
Birds Learn Safety from Other Kinds of Birds
Birds learn to detect danger by eavesdropping on other bird species' alarm calls, without seeing their peers or predators. Researchers conducted an experiment using synthetic alarm calls and recognized chorus of alarms to study this phenomenon.

Aug 1, 2018 • 3min
Microbes Share Your Morning Metro Commute
Christopher Intagliata, a skilled reporter focused on urban microbial analysis, shares intriguing insights from a study of the Hong Kong metro. He reveals how DNA sequencing of commuter's palms shows a vibrant range of microbes, some harmless and others surprisingly resistant to antibiotics. This fascinating interaction between daily commuters and microscopic life highlights how human activities shape microbial ecosystems in urban environments.

Jul 31, 2018 • 4min
Oh Say Can You See Subtle Details?
Learn about how people have different abilities to observe small details, and how it can impact performance in visual tasks and job roles. Explore the link between subitizing ability and job performance from a University College London study.

Jul 30, 2018 • 4min
Some Crows Hit On Dead Companions
Researchers study the behaviors of crows towards dead comrades, discovering that a small percentage of crows engage in sexual interactions with the deceased. They also speculate on hormonal influences and observe a combination of sexual and aggressive behaviors.

Jul 29, 2018 • 3min
Mouth Sets Healing Standard
Discover how oral tissues heal at an astonishingly faster rate than skin. The podcast dives into the specific proteins and transcription factors that play a crucial role in this unique regenerative process. Researchers share insights that could revolutionize skin healing techniques by mimicking oral healing capabilities. Tune in to learn how the mouth sets a remarkable standard for recovery!


