Reactions

Science and Nature Series / 11 Seasons

Reactions is a show that uncovers the chemistry all around us. We answer the burning questions you’ve always wanted to ask, blending the worlds of science and every-day life.

9m 47s

Does Febreze Really Work?

S2 E40 / 3m 4s

Reactions is looking at the science behind how Febreze works. Almost all of us have used some type of odor eliminator like Febreze to un-stink a room. These sprays can work wonders, but how do they actually work? Do they really remove the smell or just mask it?

Why Does Coffee Make You Poop?

S2 E39 / 2m 27s

Reactions is taking a look at some coffee chemistry, specially why does coffee make you poop. Some of you folks out there know first hand that a cup of coffee almost immediately means a trip to the bathroom. But what's inside a cup of coffee that makes you have to go #2? On Reactions, we bring you the answer - to the best of our scientific knowledge.

Can Radiation Give You Superpowers?

S2 E38 / 4m 35s

Reactions is looking at some superhero science and chemistry. The Thing, Human Torch, Invisible Woman and Mister Fantastic are back this summer! In the new reboot, the team gets its powers while in an alternate dimension. Here at Reactions, though, we stick to comic book canon. We explain the original way the Fantastic Four got their power – radiation – with help from SciPop.

Why are Tattoos Permanent?

S2 E37 / 3m 54s

Reactions is taking a look at what makes tattoos permanent. The science and chemistry at play in our skin reacts with tattoo ink. If you don’t have a tattoo, you probably at least know someone who does — but what’s the chemistry behind tattoos? We explore what tattoo ink is made of, why this body art is permanent (whether you like it or not) and other cool facts.

Are Invisibility Cloaks Possible?

S2 E36 / 4m

Reactions is taking a look to see if science and chemistry could make invisibility cloaks possible. Have you ever wished you could hide under an invisibility cloak like Harry Potter or conceal your car with a Klingon cloaking device like in Star Trek? we celebrate the International Year of Light by exploring the science behind light, sight and invisibility. Though we can’t make ourselves invisible

The Chemistry of Wine

S2 E35 / 3m 39s

There's a lot of chemistry involved in making grapes taste this darn good. If you’re stumped in the wine aisle of the store, you’re not alone. Every bottle has unique nuances of taste and smell. How can something made of grapes smell buttery or taste like grass? Learn about the complex chemistry behind wine and then impress your friends at your next party thanks to Reactions.

Why Do Feet Smell?

S2 E34 / 2m 34s

Reactions is exploring the science behind your stinky feet and why they smell. Mmm time for some good odor chemistry! Foot odor might make you cringe with embarrassment in the airport security line, but chemistry can help you beat stinky.

Why This Town Has Been On Fire For 50 Years

S2 E33 / 3m 50s

In 1962, an underground fire started in the coal-mining town of Centralia, Pennsylvania. Fifty-three years later, that fire still burns. In this week’s episode of Reactions, we explain the history and science behind the Centralia mine fire. Does anyone still live there? How could the fire keep burning for so long, and why hasn’t it been extinguished?

Better Grilling Through Chemistry

S2 E32 / 2m 40s

We're giving you the best chemistry backed tips to make your meat as perfectly grilled as possible. We’ve got chemistry knowledge that will impress your guests like, “why is red meat red?” You’ll also learn about the amazing Maillard Reaction that turns that red meat into delicious grilled brown. We also settle, once and for all, the age-old debate of gas vs. charcoal.

This Is Your Brain on Music

S2 E31 / 3m 41s

Reactions takes a look at the science and chemistry of music and our brain. Whether it's rock, hip-hop, classical or deep house, everyone has a favorite kind of music. But why do we love to throw on the headphones and get lost in the beat? It turns out that chemistry plays a big role in your favorite tunes.

Is Aspartame Safe?

S2 E30 / 3m 46s

Reactions is using science to let you know if aspartame is safe. This FDA approved consumer safe chemical has people in a tizzy about its safety. It’s been around for decades and it’s probably in your diet soda – for a little while longer anyway. PepsiCo announced recently it was removing the artificial sweetener aspartame from its Diet Pepsi products in the U.S. starting in August.

Hormones and Gender Transition

S2 E29 / 3m 8s

Reactions is taking a look at the chemistry that happens in your body when someone transitions genders. A big part of gender transition is hormone replacement therapy (HRT). This week, Reactions talks about the science of HRT and what happens when the body undergoes major shifts in estrogen and testosterone — two very powerful hormones.

Why Do Wet Dogs Stink? + Other Canine Chemistry

S2 E28 / 3m 3s

Reactions is looking at the science of why wet dogs smell so bad and more canine chemistry. Dogs! Woof Woof! They're so nice and fun. Bark Bark! They’re our best four-legged friends, and they’re the stars of many an Internet video. No, not cats. A cat is never really your friend.

Are Frozen Veggies Less Healthy?

S2 E27 / 1m 16s

Kitchen know-it-alls beware! We’re going to fact check all those health warnings you’ve grown up with. We all want to take care of ourselves, but some of these myths can actually get in the way of good healthy decisions. On that note, let’s shatter some food myths!

Another Reason To Drink (In Moderation)

S2 E26 / 1m 15s

Reactions is looking at the health science and chemistry behind booze. You've heard red wine is good for the heart, but it turns out there's more to it than that. And it's good news if you don't like wine.

No, Your Microwave Isn't Trying to Kill You

S2 E25 / 2m 15s

Reactions is looking to science and chemistry to debunk the myth that your microwave is dangerous. Kitchen know-it-alls beware! We’re going to fact check all those health warnings you’ve grown up with. We all want to take care of ourselves, but some of these myths can actually get in the way of good healthy decisions. On that note, let’s shatter some food myths!

Why New York Has the Best Bagels

S2 E24 / 3m 12s

Reactions takes on the science and chemistry behind New York City’s bagel supremacy. Many agree that the Big Apple has the best bagels in the world, but many also disagree on why. Some say it’s the tap water, others say it’s the dough, and a few say it’s purely attitude. We dive into the chemistry of these tasty breakfast treats with the help of a top chef.

How Does Adderall™ Work?

S2 E23 / 2m 47s

There's a lot of chemistry in that little pill that affects your nervous system. More than 25 million people rely on Adderall and other similar drugs to help treat narcolepsy, depression and attention deficit and hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). But how does amphetamine, the active ingredient in Adderall, work? This week, Reactions explains how amphetamine helps you focus--the chemistry of Adderall.

The Science of Avocados

S2 E22 / 2m 49s

Let's take a look at the chemistry behind our most beloved fruit; avocados. Whether they’re in a big bowl of guacamole or scooped on top of your salad, avocados enjoy a special place in our hearts and stomachs. On top of being tasty, avocados are a noted superfood with a number of fantastic health benefits. We've mashed up some fantastic avocado facts, as well as some cooking tips from the pros.

The Science of the Avengers

S2 E21 / 3m 58s

Science fans, assemble! The world’s top superhero team is back to save the world in “Avengers: Age of Ultron.” And these superheroes use some super science to help them keep the bad guys in check. Reactions looks at the chemistry of the Avengers, including Tony Stark’s suit, Captain America’s shield and Black Widow’s super-fast healing.

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