Science Quickly

Elite soccer goalkeepers tend to dive the opposite way of repeated penalty kick directions, due to the gambler's fallacy. This behavior suggests a deviation from basic rules of probability, making penalty shots essentially random.

Scientists create an algorithm to accurately sort the Beatles albums in chronological order by analyzing the evolving structure of their music.

Cynthia Graber, an environmental reporter, dives into the alarming effects of sulfates in water treatment. She explains how these chemicals transform into sulfuric acid, wreaking havoc on sewer systems by corroding concrete infrastructure. The discussion highlights the critical importance of sewer health for urban hygiene and explores innovative, sulfate-free alternatives in water treatment that could save cities substantial repair costs. Graber's insights shed light on a pressing issue that affects urban living.

A device that generates power from perspiration by measuring lactate levels in sweat is discussed in this episode.

This podcast explores the paradoxical relationship between job losses, mortality rates, and economic downturns. It discusses a study that reveals how losing a job increases the risk of death for individuals, while a recession actually lowers the overall mortality rate in the population.

A study on asthma sufferers reveals that their airways can become inflamed when they think they are smelling something harmful, even if the odor is harmless.

The podcast explores the incredible adhesive capabilities of geckos' feet and how scientists aim to replicate this in synthetic adhesives for climbing robots.

Participants in a study find sitting quietly and thinking to be incredibly unpleasant, opting to subject themselves to mild electric shocks instead of being left alone with their own thoughts

Analyzing Google search data can provide insights into stock market trends. Certain search terms are predictive of downward trends, but caution is advised to prevent manipulation by predatory traders.

The podcast discusses a new estimate that suggests the Milky Way is only half as massive as Andromeda. Astronomers explore the concept of dark matter and measure speeds and distances of galaxies.