The Science Show

Shelby Traynor, an expert on quantum mechanics, delves into the fascinating history of this scientific field. She discusses the iconic debates between Einstein and Bohr, revealing how their opposing philosophies on determinism versus probability have shaped modern science. Jeremy Leggett, a former CEO of Solar Century, shares insights on rewilding efforts in Scotland, emphasizing the crucial role of biodiversity in combating climate change. Meanwhile, historian Robin Ariane Rod highlights the cultural significance of science literature, bridging the gap between complex theories and public understanding.

If you've given birth to three daughters, what are the odds that your next child will also be a girl?One in two, right? Well … maybe not.The odds of having a fourth girl could be a fair bit higher than 50 per cent, according to a new study into families with single-sex sets of siblings.

Discover the story of a pair of brothers who invented an early electric scooter, humidicrib, fax machine, Olympic scoreboard — and much more! — in their South Australian workshop from the 1930s to the 60s.We also learn about a trial that's generated energy from the waves, and unearth two rare photographs of a long-lost bandicoot species.

A huge net, weighed down by heavy chains, swiftly sweeps across the ocean floor, scooping up everything in its path. This type of fishing, called bottom trawling, was illuminated in a new documentary, Ocean with David Attenborough. Bottom trawling is known for indiscriminately gathering all sorts of marine species, as well as damaging the sea floor. But with the practice producing around a quarter of the world’s wild-caught seafood, are there ways to make it more sustainable? 

In an electrifying episode of the Science Show, find out how getting struck by a bolt from the heavens can help at least one species of tall tree not only survive, but thrive. Then step back in time to solve a tool-making mystery in Samoa and discover hidden treasures in centuries-old books — including a bubonic plague flea.

Laura Dreesen, a radio astronomer at the University of Sydney, discusses the groundbreaking advancements brought by the James Webb Space Telescope. She highlights its achievements in revealing distant galaxies and the early universe's secrets. The podcast dives into how infrared astronomy differs from visible light and the significant role it plays in cosmic discoveries. Dreesen also shares insights into exoplanet research, including the use of transmission spectroscopy to explore rocky, Earth-like worlds and expand our understanding of habitability.

We hear from scientists who push the boundaries of creation, whether that's building wild and wacky snack flavours (successfully) or cloning extinct tropical frogs (unsuccessfully … so far). And since President Donald Trump retook office, the state of health and science research in the US has been precarious for many who work in those areas. But there is a silver lining. Other countries such as Australia are implementing programs to recruit US researchers looking to relocate.

We often hear about places where the air quality is bad, even dangerous, but what about where the air is the cleanest on Earth?That air can be found blowing onto the north-west tip of Tasmania at Kennaook/Cape Grim, where an air pollution station has quietly been keeping track of how humans have changed the makeup of our atmosphere for 50 years.So what does the world's cleanest air tell us?

Karl Popper (1902-1994) is regarded as one of the greatest philosophers of science of the twentieth century. Alan Saunders presented this portrait of Karl Popper for The Science Show in January 2001.

Lotus Jeffs, a PhD student from Monash University, discusses the intriguing effects of Ozempic on appetite suppression. She explains how GLP-1 agonists, inspired by lizard venom, work in the brain to reduce cravings for unhealthy foods. The conversation dives into the physiological and psychological changes these drugs induce, alongside challenges in drug approvals due to potential health risks. Jeffs also highlights the surprising mental health implications, including concerns about depression and their potential for new therapeutic uses.