

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

Sep 2, 2014 • 3min
Most Tibetans Genetically Adapted to the High Life
Tibetans have a genetic mutation that prevents blood clotting at high altitudes, making them well adapted to low oxygen levels.

Sep 1, 2014 • 3min
Narcissists Self-Involved Enough to Recognize Their Narcissism
Exploring a study on identifying narcissists using a single item narcissism scale reveals that the simple question 'I am a narcissist' is as effective as a 40-question clinical assessment.

Aug 29, 2014 • 3min
How Asteroid 1950 DA Keeps It Together
Discover the cohesive forces binding asteroid 1950 DA together and the potential threats it poses in the future, as discussed in a study published in Nature.

Aug 28, 2014 • 3min
Pump Up the Bass—and Maybe Your Confidence
Discover how bass-heavy music can influence feelings of power and dominance, leading study volunteers to act more aggressively in games and debates.

Aug 27, 2014 • 3min
Stressed Women Burn Fewer Comfort Food Calories
Stress leads to slower metabolism, increased fat storage, reduced calorie burning in women

Aug 26, 2014 • 3min
Habitat Loss a Real Buzzkill for Invertebrates
Karen Hopkin, an environmental reporter, dives into the staggering drop in invertebrate populations, which have plummeted by nearly 50% in just 35 years. She connects this decline to the doubling of the human population, highlighting the crucial roles these tiny creatures play in our ecosystems. Hopkin warns of the far-reaching consequences for humanity if we continue to overlook the plight of invertebrates and stresses the urgent need for conservation efforts to protect these vital species.

Aug 25, 2014 • 3min
Soccer Goalies Ignore Basic Rule of Probability
Elite soccer goalkeepers tend to dive the opposite way of repeated penalty kick directions, due to the gambler's fallacy. This behavior suggests a deviation from basic rules of probability, making penalty shots essentially random.

Aug 22, 2014 • 3min
Finally, an Algorithm to Sort Your Beatles Albums
Scientists create an algorithm to accurately sort the Beatles albums in chronological order by analyzing the evolving structure of their music.

Aug 21, 2014 • 3min
Sack Sulfates to Preserve Sewers
Cynthia Graber, an environmental reporter, dives into the alarming effects of sulfates in water treatment. She explains how these chemicals transform into sulfuric acid, wreaking havoc on sewer systems by corroding concrete infrastructure. The discussion highlights the critical importance of sewer health for urban hygiene and explores innovative, sulfate-free alternatives in water treatment that could save cities substantial repair costs. Graber's insights shed light on a pressing issue that affects urban living.

Aug 20, 2014 • 3min
Bio-Battery Produces Power from Your Perspiration
A device that generates power from perspiration by measuring lactate levels in sweat is discussed in this episode.


