

Science Quickly
Scientific American
Host Rachel Feltman, alongside leading science and tech journalists, dives into the rich world of scientific discovery in this bite-size science variety show.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Jul 14, 2016 • 4min
Mucus Lets Dolphins Emit Their Clicks
Researchers discuss a study on how dolphins use mucus to generate rapid-fire clicks for echolocation, and how they communicate and hunt using clicks, chirps, and whistles.

Jul 13, 2016 • 3min
Bees Rank Pollen by Taste
Discover how bees judge the taste of pollen, influencing their flower selection.

Jul 12, 2016 • 3min
Menu Featured Mammoth but Diners Were Mocked
A genetic analysis of leftovers from an exotic dinner in 1951 uncovers that diners were served mislabeled mammoth meat, which was actually sea turtle meat.

Jul 11, 2016 • 3min
Evolution Ed Defenders Make Rapids Progress in Grand Canyon
Dive into the clash between science and creationism during a Colorado River trip through the Grand Canyon. Discover how the National Center for Science Education bridges the gap between faith and reason with educational raft trips.

Jul 8, 2016 • 4min
Wildlife Can Bear with Hunters and Hikers
A study reveals that factors like forest connectivity and nearby housing density are better predictors of wildlife abundance in public lands compared to human activity such as hiking and hunting.

Jul 7, 2016 • 4min
Cats' Cunning Extends beyond the Hunt
Jason G. Goldman, a researcher specializing in feline behavior and cognition, reveals intriguing insights about our beloved cats. He discusses groundbreaking research conducted at a cat cafe, showcasing how domestic cats grasp the principle of cause and effect. Through sound-based experiments, it appears that cats exhibit an impressive awareness of unexpected outcomes. This discovery sheds light on their evolutionary hunting instincts, suggesting a depth of understanding that's often underestimated.

Jul 6, 2016 • 3min
Farmed Trout Bred to Fatten Up Fast
The podcast discusses how an aquaculturist used selective breeding and plant-based feed to create strains of farmed trout that fatten up quickly, addressing the global demand for fish consumption.

Jul 5, 2016 • 3min
This Algorithm Can Predict Relationship Trouble
Erika Beras, a reporter specializing in the intersection of technology and relationships, explores a groundbreaking study. She discusses how analyzing vocal patterns can predict relationship outcomes with almost 80% accuracy. This method surpasses traditional assessments by revealing underlying dynamics in couples. Discover how computer algorithms can identify potential issues and positive interactions, offering a fresh perspective for relationship therapy.

Jul 4, 2016 • 3min
Is Mars Missing a Moon?
Join planetary science expert Lee Billings as he reveals a tantalizing theory about Mars' history. Dive into the mysterious fate of its moons, Phobos and Deimos, and learn about the possibility of larger, lost moons that fell victim to tidal forces. Discover the dramatic future of Phobos, which is on a collision course with the Red Planet, expected to meet its end in a few million years. Billings brings captivating insights that challenge our understanding of Mars and its celestial companions.

Jul 1, 2016 • 4min
Human Ears Can Hear Better-Than-CD Quality (Just Barely)
Listeners can discern better-than-CD quality music with training. Ongoing debate on sound quality perception. Meta-analysis shows discernment improves with training.


