Question and Response 72

Melissa and Jam tackle a variety of listener questions about chemistry-related topics. They discuss the differences between conductors, semiconductors, and superconductors, and delve into why minty things feel cold and spicy things feel hot. The duo also addresses the safety of silica gel packets, the potency of skunk spray, and the phenomenon of microplastics. They answer questions from their Patreon community and Instagram followers, touching on the unique properties of Helium-3 and providing tips on polishing silver jewelry. The episode features a blend of informative discussions and humorous anecdotes, making chemistry accessible and entertaining for everyone.

00:00 Introduction and Questions Overview
01:54 Diving into Semiconductors and Superconductors
04:46 Silica Gel and Safety Concerns
09:54 The Science Behind Minty Cool and Spicy Hot
13:40 Addressing Unfinished Business
13:55 Instagram Questions: Skunks and Their Potent Smell
15:47 Instagram Questions: Microplastics and Forensics
17:39 Instagram Questions: Helium-3 and Its Uses
19:55 Instagram Questions: Polishing Silver Jewelry
21:28 Email Question: Sourdough Bread Making Tips
25:32 Wrapping Up and Community Shoutouts

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References from the Episode:

1. 1. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11856799/#B9-jcm-14-01345
   2. https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/chemistry/hydrocolloid
   3. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5788207/

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Melissa and Jam delve into the chemistry behind popular hydrocolloid bandages and pimple patches. They discuss the composition and functionality of these bandages, exploring how polymers and polar groups work to keep wounds moist and free from external contaminants. The episode also highlights the trend of using pimple patches, especially among teens, and addresses the additional features some patches include, such as microneedles with active ingredients. Melissa shares personal anecdotes about dealing with skin issues and Jam reflects on his own experiences with sickness. The episode concludes with a shout-out to their community members and the importance of public support in keeping the show running.

00:00 The Painful Reality of Pimples
00:59 Pimple Patches: The New Trend
04:00 Shingles: A Personal Experience
07:52 The Science Behind Hydrocolloid Bandages
22:33 Analogies and Polymers
24:32 Hydrocolloid Bandages and Wound Care
26:43 Pimple Patches and Active Ingredients
30:01 Personal Stories and Sickness
35:55 Birthdays and Personal Preferences
40:44 Community and Support

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References from the Episode:

1. 1. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11856799/#B9-jcm-14-01345
   2. https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/chemistry/hydrocolloid
   3. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5788207/

Thanks to our monthly supporters

• Emily Morrison
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• Ash
• Vince W
• Julie S.
• Heather Ragusa
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• Ciara Linville
• J0HNTR0Y
• Jeannette Napoleon
• Cullyn R
• Erica Bee
• Elizabeth P
• Rachel Reina
• Letila
• Katrina Barnum-Huckins
• Suzanne Phillips
• Venus Rebholz
• Lyn Stubblefield
• Jacob Taber
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• Chelsea B
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• Hunter Reardon

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#127 Rebroadcast

If you've ever had acne, you've probably tried some creams or washes with "benzoyl peroxide" somewhere on the label. How is it that this specific ingredient is helpful for fighting acne? What is happening at the molecular level when we apply some benzoyl peroxide to our acne? Let's find out!

References from this episode

1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3791156/
2. https://www.jaad.org/article/S0190-9622(81)70004-5/pdf
3. https://youtu.be/_Mlv2Q_HiM0
4. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK537220/
5. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21076800/
6. https://www-sciencedirect-com.libproxy.library.unt.edu/topics/neuroscience/benzoyl-peroxide
7. https://www.acs.org/content/dam/acsorg/education/resources/highschool/chemmatters/issues/2016-2017/December%202016/chemmatters-dec2016-acne.pdf
8. https://youtu.be/KrMbwDil1hc
9. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC171487/pdf/aac00071-0086.pdf
10. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5697687/#jde13996-bib-0006
11. https://youtu.be/IyxTc0iZ6V8?t=1066s
12. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5697687/#jde13996-bib-0006

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• Lyn Stubblefield
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Melissa and Jam discuss the top three kitchen products and habits Melissa avoids and loves based on her expertise in chemistry. She advises against using Teflon or non-stick cookware, vintage plastics, and recycling dirty materials. Instead, she encourages using cast iron pans, glass storage containers, and proper recycling practices. Melissa also shares her fondness for composting and its benefits. The episode wraps up with a hint at future editions focused on other household products and cosmetics.

00:00 Introduction and Initial Concerns
01:06 Chemist's Top Three Avoidances
02:49 Avoiding Teflon and Non-Stick
03:34 Avoiding Vintage Plastic
05:14 Avoiding Dirty Recycling
07:33 Chemist's Top Three Favorites
08:31 Bonus: The Joy of Composting
13:11 Wrapping Up and Listener Engagement

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Melissa and Jam discuss the chemistry behind Poopourri Toilet Spray. Melissa explains how the spray works by forming a non-polar oil layer on top of water, preventing smelly polar molecules like skatole and sulfur compounds from escaping into the air. They also touch upon the practical applications and personal experiences of using the product, making everyday bathroom visits more pleasant. Throughout the episode, the hosts delve into the chemistry of solubility and intermolecular forces, providing an engaging and informative lesson on an often-overlooked subject.

00:00 Introduction to Poopourri Toilet Spray
00:30 Personal Experiences with Bathroom Sprays
01:05 Chemistry Behind Poopourri
06:37 The Science of Smelly Molecules
11:10 How Poopourri Works
17:31 Exploring Gas Density and Surface Tension
18:44 Summarizing the Chemistry Lesson
18:49 Understanding Smelly Compounds
20:49 The Role of Polar and Non-Polar Molecules
22:54 Effectiveness of Odor-Blocking Sprays
24:26 Discussing Memorable Smells
31:26 Wrapping Up and Community Shoutouts

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Thanks to our monthly supporters

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#072 Rebroadcast

You know what they say, everyone's experienced odors, and 99.99% of all odors smell. We have room sprays, candles, air fresheners, etc. But how can we absorb or eliminate bad smells? Can chemistry do it? How? Let's find out!

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References from this episode

1. https://www.acs.org/content/dam/acsorg/education/outreach/celebrating-chemistry/2016-cced-celebrating-chemistry-english.pdf
2. Structure-Scavenging Abilities of Cyclodextrin-Based Polyurethanes by Sandra K. Young, Peter L. Vajda, Eugene Napadensky, Dawn M. Crawford, James M. Sloan, and Samuel F. Trevino
3. ACS - reactions https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sNIIxzR-d_Q&feature=youtu.be
4. https://helix.northwestern.edu/blog/2015/06/take-whiff-chemistry#:~:text=Febreze%2C%20along%20with%20many%20other,cyclodextrin%20(%CE%B2%2Dcyclodextrin).&text=The%20cyclodextrin%20molecule%20can%20be,oily%E2%80%9D%20and%20immiscible%20with%20water

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