Chemistry For Your Life

Melissa and Jam, Bleav
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Jul 31, 2025 • 26min

How does sweat cool us down?

#050 This week, Melissa and Jam once again look under the armpits of society, this time to explore sweat. Is it cool? Well does it keep us cool? How? At what cost? Is there more to sweat than meets the eye? Can you drink it? Grab your sweat bands and let's hit the track Paulie Bleeker.   References from this episode Flexible and Superwettable Bands as a Platform toward Sweat Sampling and Sensing - Analytical Chemistry - Xuecheng He, Tailin Xu, Zhen Gu, Wei Gao, Li-Ping Xu, Tingrui Pan, and Xueji Zhang A Fully Integrated and Self-Powered Smartwatch for Continuous Sweat Glucose Monitoring - ACS Sensors - Jiangqi Zhao, Yuanjing Lin, Jingbo Wu, Hnin Yin Yin Nyein, Mallika Bariya, Li-Chia Tai, Minghan Chao, Wenbo Ji, George Zhang, Zhiyong Fan, and Ali Javey General Chemistry, Edition 2 - Flowers, Theopold, Langley, Robinson Find us on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook @ChemForYourLife. Email us at chemforyourlife@gmail.com And check out our chill, simple little website at https://chemforyourlife.transistor.fm/ Thanks to our monthly supporters Ciara Linville J0HNTR0Y Jeannette Napoleon Cullyn R Erica Bee Elizabeth P Sarah Moar Rachel Reina Letila Katrina Barnum-Huckins Suzanne Phillips Nelly Silva Venus Rebholz Lyn Stubblefield Jacob Taber Brian Kimball Emerson Woodhall Kristina Gotfredsen Timothy Parker Steven Boyles Chris Skupien Chelsea B Bri McAllister Avishai Barnoy Hunter Reardon ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
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Jul 24, 2025 • 50min

How does *color* film photography work??

In this continuation of our two-part series, Melissa and Jam dive into the intriguing chemistry behind color film and Polaroid photography. The episode picks up from the previous discussion on black and white film, focusing on color theory and how it applies to both traditional and instant photography. Listeners will learn about the science of additive and subtractive colors, how multiple layers of dye-sensitized silver halide work together to capture images, and the unique processes involved in developing these images. For those fascinated by the intersection of chemistry and photography, this episode is a must-listen. 00:00 Introduction and Recap 01:42 Understanding Color Theory 05:08 Additive and Subtractive Colors 07:00 Color Photography Basics 08:45 Film Development Process 13:03 Negative and Positive Images 17:33 Practical Applications and Examples 23:28 Understanding Negative Images in Photography 24:26 Principles of Color Photography 25:22 Exploring Color Negatives and Filters 27:14 Layers and Sensitizers in Color Film 29:51 The Development Process of Color Film 34:22 Introduction to Polaroid Photography 35:20 The Chemistry Behind Polaroid Development 40:06 Fascination with Photography and Color Theory 40:50 Favorite Black and White TV Shows 44:12 Closing Remarks and Community Shoutouts ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★ ★ Buy Podcast Merch and Apparel ★ Check out our website at chemforyourlife.com Watch our episodes on YouTube Find us on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook @ChemForYourLife References from this episode: https://pubs-acs-org.libproxy.library.unt.edu/doi/epdf/10.1021/ed052p622?ref=article_openPDF https://pubs-acs-org.libproxy.library.unt.edu/doi/10.1021/acs.jchemed.6b00400 https://pubs-acs-org.libproxy.library.unt.edu/doi/10.1021/ed081p694 https://edu.rsc.org/experiments/making-a-photographic-print-using-silver-chloride/454.article https://www.acs.org/content/dam/acsorg/education/resources/highschool/chemmatters/articlesbytopic/metals%20and%20nonmetals/chemmatters-feb2006-digital-photo.pdf https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Rolf-Steiger/publication/279964154_CHEMICAL_SENSITIZATION_OF_SILVER_BROMIDE/links/5a7d8b55aca272341aef2f6f/CHEMICAL-SENSITIZATION-OF-SILVER-BROMIDE.pdf https://www.acs.org/education/celebrating-chemistry-editions/2024-ncw/chemistry-of-polaroids.html https://cen.acs.org/articles/87/i12/Instant-Film.html https://www.acs.org/education/whatischemistry/landmarks/land-instant-photography.html https://pubs-acs-org.libproxy.library.unt.edu/doi/epdf/10.1021/ed051p72?ref=article_openPDF Thanks to our monthly supporters Vince W Julie S. Heather R Autoclave Chelsea M Dorien VD Scott B Jessie R Ciara L J0HNTR0Y Jeannette N Cullyn R Erica B Elizabeth P Sarah M Rachel R Letila Katrina B Suzanne P Venus R Lyn S Jacob T Brian K Emerson W Kristina G Timothy P Steven B Chris and Claire S Chelsea B Avishai B Hunter R ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★ ★ Buy Podcast Merch and Apparel ★ Check out our website at chemforyourlife.com Watch our episodes on YouTube Find us on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook @ChemForYourLife
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Jul 17, 2025 • 36min

Ask a Chemist: Is Baking Soda and Vinegar a Cleaning Myth? (And other questions)

Melissa and Jam tackle a variety of questions and corrections from their listeners. They dive into topics such as the effectiveness of baking soda and vinegar as cleaning agents, the science behind kombucha carbonation, the structural differences in Panko breadcrumbs, and how polymer clays harden in the oven versus air dry clay. They also explore fun anecdotes from the community about glow-in-the-dark items and discuss how Monster energy drinks can explode when frozen. The episode provides valuable insights into everyday chemistry while addressing common myths and misconceptions. 00:00 Introduction and Teasers 00:34 Corrections and Community Feedback 02:14 Kombucha Fermentation Discussion 10:31 Baking Soda and Vinegar Cleaning Debate 15:45 Adhesives for Panko Breadcrumbs 16:59 Greek Yogurt and Panko Breadcrumbs Recipe 18:02 The Science Behind Panko Breadcrumbs 19:10 Ozone Layer and COVID-19 Impact 21:43 Exploding Monster Energy Drinks 23:44 Mel's Research and Published Articles 25:23 Polymer Clays and Air Dry Clays 26:50 Alternative Career Choices 31:30 Listener Anecdotes and Community Engagement 34:51 Supporting the Show and Final Thoughts ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★ ★ Buy Podcast Merch and Apparel ★ Check out our website at chemforyourlife.com Watch our episodes on YouTube Find us on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook @ChemForYourLife Thanks to our monthly supporters Vince W Julie S. Heather R Autoclave Chelsea M Dorien VD Scott B Jessie R Ciara L J0HNTR0Y Jeannette N Cullyn R Erica B Elizabeth P Sarah M Rachel R Letila Katrina B Suzanne P Venus R Lyn S Jacob T Brian K Emerson W Kristina G Timothy P Steven B Chris and Claire S Chelsea B Avishai B Hunter R ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★ ★ Buy Podcast Merch and Apparel ★ Check out our website at chemforyourlife.com Watch our episodes on YouTube Find us on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook @ChemForYourLife
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Jul 10, 2025 • 55min

What is the chemistry of film photography?

Melissa and Jam delve into the fascinating chemistry behind film photography. They reminisce about their childhood experiences with analog cameras and discuss the shift to digital cameras. Melissa, a chemist, explains the complex chemical processes involved in capturing and developing photos on film, focusing on the role of light-sensitive silver bromide. The episode also includes shout-outs to community members who spurred the topic and closes with personal stories and favorite film photos. Get ready to explore the intersection of chemistry and photography while revisiting nostalgia from the days of film cameras. 00:00 Nostalgia: From Film to Digital Cameras 00:38 The Shift to Digital Photography 01:52 Introduction to the Podcast 02:01 Shoutouts and Listener Requests 12:32 The Chemistry Behind Film Photography 28:03 Amplifying the Latent Image 28:24 Creating the Negative 29:11 Fixing the Image 29:51 Understanding the Negative 30:30 Inverting the Negative 31:15 Early Photography Challenges 32:12 Explaining the Process 33:21 Chemical Reactions in Film Development 34:44 Scanning and Developing Film 41:15 Personal Film Photography Stories 51:29 Supporting the Show ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★ ★ Buy Podcast Merch and Apparel ★ Check out our website at chemforyourlife.com Watch our episodes on YouTube Find us on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook @ChemForYourLife References from this episode: https://pubs-acs-org.libproxy.library.unt.edu/doi/epdf/10.1021/ed052p622?ref=article_openPDF https://pubs-acs-org.libproxy.library.unt.edu/doi/10.1021/acs.jchemed.6b00400 https://pubs-acs-org.libproxy.library.unt.edu/doi/10.1021/ed081p694 https://edu.rsc.org/experiments/making-a-photographic-print-using-silver-chloride/454.article https://www.acs.org/content/dam/acsorg/education/resources/highschool/chemmatters/articlesbytopic/metals%20and%20nonmetals/chemmatters-feb2006-digital-photo.pdf https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Rolf-Steiger/publication/279964154_CHEMICAL_SENSITIZATION_OF_SILVER_BROMIDE/links/5a7d8b55aca272341aef2f6f/CHEMICAL-SENSITIZATION-OF-SILVER-BROMIDE.pdf https://www.acs.org/education/celebrating-chemistry-editions/2024-ncw/chemistry-of-polaroids.html https://cen.acs.org/articles/87/i12/Instant-Film.html https://www.acs.org/education/whatischemistry/landmarks/land-instant-photography.html https://pubs-acs-org.libproxy.library.unt.edu/doi/epdf/10.1021/ed051p72?ref=article_openPDF Thanks to our monthly supporters Vince W Julie S. Heather R Autoclave Chelsea M Dorien VD Scott B Jessie R Ciara L J0HNTR0Y Jeannette N Cullyn R Erica B Elizabeth P Sarah M Rachel R Letila Katrina B Suzanne P Venus R Lyn S Jacob T Brian K Emerson W Kristina G Timothy P Steven B Chris and Claire S Chelsea B Avishai B Hunter R ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★ ★ Buy Podcast Merch and Apparel ★ Check out our website at chemforyourlife.com Watch our episodes on YouTube Find us on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook @ChemForYourLife
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Jul 3, 2025 • 28min

What gives curly hair its curl?

#027 Rebroadcast Originally Published January 23, 2020 This week, Melissa and Jam dive into the chemistry of something that may not seem like chemistry at first: hair. Curly hair to be specific. What makes hair curl? Also what is hair in the first place? Why can hair be so radically different? Alright curly girls, curly guys, and curly folks, let's find out. ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★ ★ Buy Podcast Merch and Apparel ★ Check out our website at chemforyourlife.com Watch our episodes on YouTube Find us on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook @ChemForYourLife   References from this episode Biochemistry, Edition 4 - Garret and Grisham The Chemistry of Hair - C. S. Whewell, Ph.D., F.R.I.C., F.T.I. The Science of Curls -  Leidamarie Tirado-Lee Bad Hair Days? Chemistry to the Rescue - Marlene M. Gutierrez     Thanks to our monthly supporters Vince W Julie S. Heather R Autoclave Chelsea M Dorien VD Scott B Jessie R Ciara L J0HNTR0Y Jeannette N Cullyn R Erica B Elizabeth P Sarah M Rachel R Letila Katrina B Suzanne P Venus R Lyn S Jacob T Brian K Emerson W Kristina G Timothy P Steven B Chris and Claire S Chelsea B Avishai B Hunter R ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★ ★ Buy Podcast Merch and Apparel ★ Check out our website at chemforyourlife.com Watch our episodes on YouTube Find us on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook @ChemForYourLife  
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Jun 26, 2025 • 58min

Are organic vegetables healthier for you?

Dive into the intriguing world of organic versus non-organic foods. Discover what 'organic' truly means according to USDA standards, and unravel common myths surrounding pesticides. Learn that prioritizing fruits and vegetables in your diet is more crucial than their organic status. The hosts also share practical washing tips to reduce pesticide residues. Plus, highlights of the dietary benefits of produce consumption, especially in preventing chronic diseases, keep the conversation lively and informative!
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Jun 19, 2025 • 30min

Ask a Chemist: Explain it like I'm five?

This episode of 'Chemistry for Your Life' features Melissa and Jam tackling various chemistry questions sourced from the 'Explain Like I'm Five' subreddit. They aim to explain complex chemistry concepts in a manner even a 5-year-old could understand. Questions discussed include why water isn't flammable, how carbonation works, the nature of colors and atoms, cooking processes, caloric changes during cooking, and why drawings on a steamy mirror reappear. The episode emphasizes simplifying complex ideas and making chemistry relatable to everyday life. 00:00 Introduction and Setting the Scene 00:50 Explaining Chemistry Like You're Five 01:31 Welcome to Chemistry for Your Life 02:30 Why Isn't Water Flammable? 07:00 How Does Carbonation Work? 09:48 Are Atoms Different Colors? 13:12 What Happens When Cooking Food? 14:14 Understanding the Science of Cooking 15:12 The Chemistry Behind Frying and Toasting 16:35 Exploring the Role of Ingredients in Cooking 17:57 Calories and Cooking: What Changes? 22:49 The Mystery of Steamy Mirror Drawings 27:06 Wrapping Up and Community Thanks ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★ ★ Buy Podcast Merch and Apparel ★ Check out our website at chemforyourlife.com Watch our episodes on YouTube Find us on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook @ChemForYourLife Thanks to our monthly supporters Vince W Julie S. Heather R Autoclave Chelsea M Dorien VD Scott B Jessie R Ciara L J0HNTR0Y Jeannette N Cullyn R Erica B Elizabeth P Sarah M Rachel R Letila Katrina B Suzanne P Venus R Lyn S Jacob T Brian K Emerson W Kristina G Timothy P Steven B Chris and Claire S Chelsea B Avishai B Hunter R ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★ ★ Buy Podcast Merch and Apparel ★ Check out our website at chemforyourlife.com Watch our episodes on YouTube Find us on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook @ChemForYourLife
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Jun 12, 2025 • 35min

Is it safe to use weed killer (Roundup)?

Melissa and Jam discuss the multifaceted debate surrounding the use of the widely known weed killer, Roundup, specifically its active ingredient, glyphosate. Prompted by a listener's question, they explore the good, the bad, and the ugly aspects of glyphosate, including its effectiveness in agriculture, potential health risks, and environmental impacts. They delve into scientific studies, regulatory concerns, and personal anecdotes to provide a comprehensive overview of this controversial herbicide. 00:00 Introduction to Weed Killers 01:34 Listener's Question on Glyphosate 03:24 Understanding Glyphosate 08:32 The Good and Bad of Glyphosate 11:09 Health Concerns and Controversies 18:44 Whistleblowing and Evidence on Glyphosate 19:05 Human Health Impacts of Glyphosate 20:37 Environmental Effects of Glyphosate 23:00 Regulatory Considerations and Future Actions 26:16 Personal Decisions and Practical Advice 31:12 Community Engagement and Support ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★ ★ Buy Podcast Merch and Apparel ★ Check out our website at chemforyourlife.com Watch our episodes on YouTube Find us on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook @ChemForYourLife References from this episode: https://www.chemistryworld.com/podcasts/glyphosate/6885.article https://www.chemistryworld.com/opinion/how-a-herbicide-illustrates-the-many-ways-chemicals-are-put-to-the-test/4021190.article https://www-sciencedirect-com.libproxy.library.unt.edu/science/article/pii/S2152265021001518#coi0001 - Note that The author has been paid as an expert in glyphosate litigation. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8223940/ Note that author PB acted as consultant for glyphosate producers, on matters not related to glyphosate https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11354939/#notes5 Not notes here, but they essentially said it seems like we need more studies, there seems to be some correlation.  https://www-sciencedirect-com.libproxy.library.unt.edu/science/article/pii/S0048969717330279?casa_token=0V1BAIP8ZFgAAAAA:0O5yGT0FK4sbuZBIhieomHGxbm-0Y_Y7VtoPEaHFcArD9FS3aczcDKHV0nU7KfwA0erzOVNHwA#s0080 - Some salaries paid for by organizations, wasn’t clear their relationship to glyphosate, but no disclosure or conflict of interest statement was made here.  https://www.mdpi.com/1422-0067/23/9/4605 - No conflicts of interest https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.abf7482 Thanks to our monthly supporters Vince W Julie S. Heather R Autoclave Chelsea M Dorien VD Scott B Jessie R Ciara L J0HNTR0Y Jeannette N Cullyn R Erica B Elizabeth P Sarah M Rachel R Letila Katrina B Suzanne P Venus R Lyn S Jacob T Brian K Emerson W Kristina G Timothy P Steven B Chris and Claire S Chelsea B Avishai B Hunter R ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★ ★ Buy Podcast Merch and Apparel ★ Check out our website at chemforyourlife.com Watch our episodes on YouTube Find us on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook @ChemForYourLife
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Jun 5, 2025 • 40min

Are we breathing recycled air on airplanes?

#212 Melissa and Jam explore the concept of ozone and its impact on air quality in airplanes. Melissa explains the chemical reaction of ozone, why it's significant in organic chemistry, and how it can lead to discomfort in air travel by interacting with the oils on our skin. They also discuss various tips for flying and the potential benefits of noise-canceling headphones and lounge access for frequent flyers. The episode sheds light on why people often feel unwell on planes, highlighting the Pigpen Effect, where leftover oils from previous passengers can react with ozone to create a micro-cloud of pollutants. 00:00 Introduction to Ozone Lysis 00:09 Ozone Lysis in Organic Chemistry 00:25 Personal Anecdotes and Misconceptions 01:10 Ozone and Airplane Discomfort 01:49 Chemistry of Airplane Air 02:41 Ozone Lysis and Human Interaction 06:44 Catalytic Converters in Airplanes 11:58 The Pigpen Effect 16:50 Historical Context and Modern Concerns 18:38 Recap and Further Discussion 20:23 Understanding the Pigpen Effect 20:58 Chemical Reactions of Aldehydes and Ketones 22:11 Volatility and Airplane Air Quality 22:42 The Gross Reality of Airplane Seats 23:31 Airplane Hygiene and Mask-Wearing 25:08 Flying Tips and Tricks 29:54 Travel Credit Cards and Lounge Access 34:36 Sleeping on Planes and Noise-Canceling Headphones 37:43 Final Thoughts and Community Engagement ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★ ★ Buy Podcast Merch and Apparel ★ Check out our website at chemforyourlife.com Watch our episodes on YouTube Find us on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook @ChemForYourLife References from this episode: https://cen.acs.org/safety/consumer-safety/Periodic-Graphics-chemistry-airplane-air/102/i26 https://www.acs.org/catalyzing-change/when-a-good-relationship-turns-toxic-ozone-on-airplanes.html https://pubs-acs-org.libproxy.library.unt.edu/doi/full/10.1021/es3046795 https://youtu.be/hM9P1_Xuayk?t=107s https://www.faa.gov/sites/faa.gov/files/data_research/research/med_humanfacs/cer/OzonePassengerCabins.pdf https://www.faa.gov/sites/faa.gov/files/data_research/research/med_humanfacs/cer/OzonePassengerCabins.pdf https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3683839/ Thanks to our monthly supporters Vince W Julie S. Heather R Autoclave Chelsea M Dorien VD Scott B Jessie R Ciara L J0HNTR0Y Jeannette N Cullyn R Erica B Elizabeth P Sarah M Rachel R Letila Katrina B Suzanne P Venus R Lyn S Jacob T Brian K Emerson W Kristina G Timothy P Steven B Chris and Claire S Chelsea B Avishai B Hunter R ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★ ★ Buy Podcast Merch and Apparel ★ Check out our website at chemforyourlife.com Watch our episodes on YouTube Find us on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook @ChemForYourLife
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May 29, 2025 • 27min

What is the ozone layer?

#110 Rebroadcast Originally Published August 26, 2021 We've all heard about it. And most likely you've heard that it's in danger. But what is the ozone layer in the first place? And once we learn that, how about figuring out why it's in danger? Ok let's do it.   References from this episode https://www.chemistryworld.com/podcasts/ozone/3005901.article https://youtu.be/XGDU6RvUVuk https://www-sciencedirect-com.libproxy.library.unt.edu/topics/earth-and-planetary-sciences/atmospheric-ozone Solomon’s organic chemistry 11th edition https://www.acs.org/content/acs/en/education/resources/highschool/chemmatters/past-issues/archive-2012-2013/ozone-layer-our-global-sunscreen.html     ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★ ★ Buy Podcast Merch and Apparel ★ Check out our website at chemforyourlife.com Watch our episodes on YouTube Find us on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook @ChemForYourLife Thanks to our monthly supporters Vince W Julie S. Heather R Autoclave Chelsea M Dorien VD Scott B Jessie R Ciara L J0HNTR0Y Jeannette N Cullyn R Erica B Elizabeth P Sarah M Rachel R Letila Katrina B Suzanne P Venus R Lyn S Jacob T Brian K Emerson W Kristina G Timothy P Steven B Chris and Claire S Chelsea B Avishai B Hunter R ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★ ★ Buy Podcast Merch and Apparel ★ Check out our website at chemforyourlife.com Watch our episodes on YouTube Find us on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook @ChemForYourLife  

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