Chain Reaction by ACS

4 Episodes

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The Modern Chemist: The Origin Story of Chemistry, Episode 3

2026-03-2644:08

For centuries, chemistry in the United States was for one kind of a person: The white man. But now, after decades of progress, chemistry is more inclusive than ever. Historian Laura Puaca reveals how wars, feminist movements, and shifting societal expectations opened long‑closed doors for women in science. As feminism changed women's role in chemistry, other social movements were advancing the causes of minority scientists. Chemist and educator Sibrina Collins highlights the stories of early ...

The Chemists’ Wars: The Origin Story of Chemistry, Episode 2

2026-03-1935:46

Chemistry doesn’t just shape conflict — conflict shapes chemistry. And at no time in history is that more apparent than during the two world wars. Historian Alison McManus recounts how the race to weaponize toxic gases like chlorine and mustard gas transformed chemists into key military players, spurred industrial growth, and ignited an international arms race during WWI. However, some battles of the world wars weren’t waged against an opposing army, but against diseases that soldiers c...

From Alchemy to Atoms: The Origin Story of Chemistry, Episode 1

2026-03-1940:23

In this debut episode of Chain Reaction, we go on a thrilling journey through the earliest chapters of chemistry’s history starting with the quest to make gold from abundant metals. Chemical historian Larry Principe guides us through the winding past of alchemy – its evolution across Greek, Islamic, and European traditions, and the secrecy, symbolism, and ambition that defined the craft. From coded manuscripts to the social politics that ultimately pushed alchemy underground, Larry reveals ho...

Introducing: Chain Reaction by ACS

2026-03-1002:44

Introducing Chain Reaction, a podcast by the American Chemical Society that links chemistry's past to its future, revealing how this ever‑evolving science shapes the world around us — from the materials we use every day to the environment that we depend on. Each episode brings fresh perspectives and personal stories from chemists, engineers, and other scientists, as well as historians who guide us through pivotal moments in chemistry’s history. Together, we’ll uncover chemistry’s surprising c...

#box-pro-ellipsis-177491161872012{-webkit-line-clamp:2;}Chain Reaction by ACS