

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

Apr 27, 2016 • 3min
Traces of Pharmaceuticals Dwell in Wastewater-Grown Veggies
Volunteers ate veggies grown in wastewater had higher but safe levels of an epilepsy drug. Exploring the use of wastewater for irrigation and the presence of pharmaceutical residues in wastewater-grown veggies.

Apr 26, 2016 • 4min
This Plant Bleeds Nectar to Attract Help
A unique plant bleeds sugary nectar to attract ants that protect it from beetles, forming a beneficial relationship that boosts the plant's growth

Apr 25, 2016 • 3min
Climbing Bears Help Plants Keep Cool
Mountain-climbing bears may seem like an unusual ally for cherry trees, but they play a crucial role in helping them survive climate change. These bears carry seeds to higher altitudes where temperatures are cooler, ensuring the trees thrive as the planet warms. The discussion highlights the fascinating interactions between species and the importance of biodiversity. It also raises questions about how different species may respond to changes in their environment.

Apr 22, 2016 • 3min
Lower Your Voice Pitch to Persuade
Study reveals that lowering your voice pitch during an argument can make you more influential and persuasive.

Apr 21, 2016 • 3min
This Primate's Calls Obey a Linguistic Law
Primate vocalizations follow linguistic law similar to human communication. Study reveals universal principles in complex vocal systems and evolution of efficient communication strategies among animals.

Apr 20, 2016 • 3min
Woodpecker Head Bangs Communicate Info
Woodpeckers use drumming to communicate information and coordinate their defense of territory. The length of the drumming sound conveys the woodpecker's strength, while pairs of woodpeckers respond to long drums to protect their investment in nesting.

Apr 19, 2016 • 3min
Gambling Gave Science Some Lucky Breaks
Explore how science has benefited from the study of gambling and probability theory, highlighting the contributions of mathematicians such as Fermatin and Pascal.

Apr 18, 2016 • 3min
Microbots Get the Lead Out--of Wastewater
Discover microscopic aquatic robots that can remove heavy metal contaminants from water, providing a cost-effective solution

Apr 15, 2016 • 4min
Heat ID'd as Subtle Cause of Rockfalls
Rockfalls can occur without any obvious reason. Researchers reveal that fluctuating temperatures might be the hidden culprit. In Yosemite Valley, heat expands tiny cracks in cliff faces, making them unstable. High summer temperatures could increase the risk of rockfalls. Understanding this connection is vital for safety in areas prone to these natural events.

Apr 14, 2016 • 3min
Bearcats Naturally Pass the Popcorn
Researchers uncover the chemistry behind the popcorn-like scent of binturongs, revealing that they obtain the smell from bacteria on their fur or in their intestines. The scent is used to communicate information about their species and reproductive readiness.


