Distillations

Series produced by Distillations

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Science + Culture + History

Each episode of Distillations takes a deep dive into a moment of science-related history in order to shed light on the present. Produced by the Science History Institute.


170 Pieces

Order by: Newest First | Oldest First
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We learn about solar power, the history of light bulbs, and seasonal affective disorder.

  • Added: Feb 08, 2010
  • Length: 11:57
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Natural chemical processes kick into high gear in the autumn; turning leaves, ripening vegetables, and the fermentation of apples into cider.

Bought by WTJU


  • Added: Oct 22, 2009
  • Length: 11:42
  • Purchases: 1
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The three phases of matter aren't as straightforward as you might think! Learn about dry ice and glass, as well as Distillations' new phase with ou...

  • Added: Oct 14, 2009
  • Length: 11:46
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We learn about ways scientists have attempted to educate the masses, via a 1960s radio show, 17th-century public demonstrations, and contemporary s...

Bought by WTJU


  • Added: Oct 14, 2009
  • Length: 11:51
  • Purchases: 1
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The body keeps itself in check and GoreTex can help your heart. Find out how in this episode of Distillations. We also talk to Dr. Richard Silverma...

  • Added: Oct 14, 2009
  • Length: 12:04
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We find out more about the iconic golden brown fabric worn by astronauts and firemen in the 1960s, the dye workers whose high incidence of cancer h...

  • Added: Aug 28, 2009
  • Length: 11:26
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Take a look back at the best of Distillations this week. Free radicals as the chemical agent, find out how scientists detect forgery in art, and po...

  • Added: Aug 28, 2009
  • Length: 11:34
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Take a look back at the best of Distillations this week. Panspermia as the chemical agent, finding out more about the elusive umami, and why you ma...

  • Added: Jul 31, 2009
  • Length: 10:43
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We find out how brownfields are converted into something useful and why Dow Chemical chose Midland, Michigan, for their plant location. Chemical Ag...

  • Added: Jul 08, 2009
  • Length: 11:57
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Rise and Shine! In today's episode we look at some of the most essential elements of a satisfying breakfast, such as how pectins control the consis...

  • Added: Jun 19, 2009
  • Length: 11:51
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The history and chemistry of dentistry. How baking soda cleans your teeth and lidocaine numbs your gums. Chemical Agent: Sodium Bicarbonate.

  • Added: Jun 08, 2009
  • Length: 11:15
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Safety first, listeners! In today's episode we explore how 16th century alchemists protected themselves from lead exposure, why goggles are more po...

  • Added: May 20, 2009
  • Length: 11:43
Caption: Elmat Crystal Puller, Credit: Victoria M. Indivero
The history and the mystery behind the integrated circuit. Chemical Agent: Chemically Amplified Photoresists.

  • Added: May 07, 2009
  • Length: 11:28
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This week learn about the cleaning power of vinegar, what to do if you have hard water, and why green dry cleaning is catching on. Chemical Agent: ...

Bought by RadioStPete Florida, RadioFreePalmer, Prairie Public, KMXT, RadioFreePalmer and more


  • Added: Apr 24, 2009
  • Length: 11:55
  • Purchases: 11
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Distillations heads off to the ball game with a show on baseball. Chemical Agent: Anabolic steroids.

  • Added: Apr 23, 2009
  • Length: 11:22
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We examine the chemical ties that bind. Chemical Agent: Free Radicals.

Bought by WTJU


  • Added: Apr 08, 2009
  • Length: 12:00
  • Purchases: 1
Caption: Algae tubes at ASU, Credit: Rene Gutel
Are biofuels the answer to our energy problem? An exploration from the scientific side of things.

  • Added: Mar 26, 2009
  • Length: 11:40
Caption: Rioghan the Search Dog, Credit: Uploaded to Flickr by SARhounds
Distillations goes to the dogs with an episode on pets. Learn why they make us sneeze, how they can diagnose cancer, and how to protect them when g...

Bought by CKMO


  • Added: Mar 26, 2009
  • Length: 10:55
  • Purchases: 1
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An investigation into the chemistry of plant behavior, including an interview with bestselling author Amy Stewart. Chemical Agent: Photosynthesis.

  • Added: Mar 12, 2009
  • Length: 11:54
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Explore the tools and shared experiences that bring a professional community together. Chemical Agent: Sodium Cyanide.

  • Added: Feb 05, 2009
  • Length: 11:42