Science Friday

In this podcast, the host and mathematician Dr. Eugenia Chang explore the reality and perception of math. They discuss the parallels between math and fiction, the role of math in nature's structures, and the importance of math as a tool for critical thinking. Dr. Chang also shares their motivation for writing a book about math and encourages curiosity.

Explore the mysterious traits of owls, such as silent flight and sharp hearing, and the decoding of their vocalizations. Also, discover the science behind the mouthfeel experience of eating chocolate, including the texture-changing process and its impact on enjoyment.

Carl Zimmer, guest editor of The Best American Science and Nature Writing 2023, and other writers reflect on their favorite stories from 2023, the challenges of selecting diverse topics, the power of good science writing, fact checking practices, pros and cons of freelance science writing, strategies to engage people in scientific fields, challenges of writing about water, and the state of science journalism.

The podcast explores the importance of seaweeds in coastal ecosystems and highlights their role in providing food, shelter, and stability. It also discusses how seaweeds are being investigated for biofuel production. Additionally, the podcast delves into the challenges faced by fungal taxonomists in naming organisms based on DNA sequences alone, and explores the debate surrounding the formal naming of 'dark fungi' species. The significance of seaweeds in supporting marine life and protecting coastlines is also emphasized.

Explore the departure of pandas from zoos, the history and impact of panda diplomacy, and the global mission to save pandas through gifting and conservation efforts. Learn about the challenges of breeding pandas in captivity, including creative methods and collaborative efforts. Discover the success of panda conservation and its role in raising awareness and funding for habitat conservation.

Explore the emotional power of music in shaping memories and its potential therapeutic effects. Learn about the relationship between time perception, emotion, and memory. Discover how music can manipulate our emotions and help us form strong memories. Dive into ongoing research on depression, PTSD, and episodic memory, and an introduction to a mobile app for tracking emotions.

Top science news stories of 2023 include breakthrough vaccines for RSV and malaria, weight loss drugs, record-high temperatures, completion of the human pangenome, asteroid sample arrival, ripples in space-time, AI for pets' emotions, and new findings about T. rex's appearance. The podcast also discusses the challenges of installing solar panels in historic districts and the conflict between preservation and renewable energy.

Pennsylvania's syringe services programs face legal complications due to the state's drug laws. The podcast also explores the importance of expanding syringe services with opioid settlement money. Dr. Carlotta Berry promotes diversity in STEM through her romance novels featuring black women. The podcast discusses the need for increased representation of black women in STEM fields and efforts to provide resources and support.

Scientists have discovered that lignin extracted from leftover cocoa pod husks can be used as a flame retardant. Lignin has the potential to be a greener alternative for fuel and biodegradable plastic. The podcast also explores the fascinating properties of non-Newtonian fluids, such as oobleck, and their potential applications in creating adaptive materials and protective systems.

The podcast discusses the carbon emissions of the US and UK militaries, proposing climate finance payments as a solution. It explores the financial cost of their emissions and the challenges of obtaining official data. The chapter also addresses the need to reduce military operations and find decarbonization pathways. The podcast explores the importance of political decisions, the potential for converting military jobs into green industries, and the concept of military climate reparations. It reflects on President Eisenhower's warning about the military industrial complex and discusses the urgency of addressing climate change.