DiscoverChemistry For Your LifeAsk a Chemist: Why do you need yogurt to make yogurt? (And other questions)
Ask a Chemist: Why do you need yogurt to make yogurt? (And other questions)

Ask a Chemist: Why do you need yogurt to make yogurt? (And other questions)

Update: 2024-05-30
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This episode of Chemistry for Your Life begins with a discussion about the podcast's new ad partnership. The hosts explain that they have joined a network of independent podcasts, which will allow them to receive advertising revenue and grow the show. They also emphasize that an ad-free version will remain available for patrons. The hosts then move on to address listener feedback, including a positive review from a 12-year-old chemistry enthusiast and a critical comment about the inclusion of sponsorship messages. They also discuss a comment about the legally enforceable drinking water standard for PFAS contamination and a question about why yogurt is needed to make more yogurt. The episode concludes with a Q&A segment, where the hosts answer questions about the best tub material for a hot bath, their favorite chemistry topics, and how to make contaminated water drinkable.

Outlines

00:00:00
Introduction and Announcements

This Chapter introduces the episode and announces the podcast's new ad partnership. The hosts explain that they have joined a network of independent podcasts, which will allow them to receive advertising revenue and grow the show. They also emphasize that an ad-free version will remain available for patrons.

00:00:52
Listener Feedback and Reviews

This Chapter focuses on listener feedback and reviews. The hosts read a positive review from a 12-year-old chemistry enthusiast and address a critical comment about the inclusion of sponsorship messages. They also discuss a comment about the legally enforceable drinking water standard for PFAS contamination.

00:01:06
Q&A: Yogurt, Contaminated Water, and Tub Materials

This Chapter features a Q&A segment, where the hosts answer questions about why yogurt is needed to make more yogurt, how to make contaminated water drinkable, and the best tub material for a hot bath.

00:02:00
Favorite Chemistry Topics

This Chapter delves into the hosts' favorite chemistry topics. They discuss their passion for teaching chemistry effectively, the misconceptions surrounding organic chemistry, and the joy of applying chemistry to everyday life.

Keywords

PFAS


PFAS stands for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, a group of man-made chemicals that are used in many products, including non-stick cookware, firefighting foam, and food packaging. PFAS are known as "forever chemicals" because they don't break down in the environment and can persist for a long time. They have been linked to various health problems, including cancer, liver damage, and immune system deficiencies. The EPA has announced a legally enforceable drinking water standard to protect communities from exposure to harmful PFAS.

Chemistry for Your Life


Chemistry for Your Life is a podcast hosted by Melissa Kleene and Jim Robinson, a chemist and a non-chemist, respectively. The podcast aims to make chemistry accessible and relatable by exploring the chemistry of everyday life. They discuss various topics, including food, health, the environment, and technology, explaining the underlying chemical principles.

Podcast Network


A podcast network is a group of podcasts that are affiliated with each other. Networks often provide support services to their member podcasts, such as advertising sales, marketing, and production assistance. Joining a network can help podcasts reach a wider audience and generate revenue through advertising.

Patreon


Patreon is a platform that allows creators to receive recurring financial support from their fans. Patrons can pledge a monthly amount to support creators they enjoy, and in return, they often receive exclusive content, benefits, and access to the creator's community.

Sourdough Starter


A sourdough starter is a mixture of flour and water that is fermented by wild yeast and bacteria. It is used to make sourdough bread. Sourdough starters can be made from scratch by capturing wild yeast and bacteria from the air, or they can be started with a portion of an existing starter.

Cast Iron Tub


A cast iron tub is a type of bathtub made from cast iron. Cast iron tubs are known for their durability, heat retention, and classic aesthetic. They are often found in older homes and are prized for their ability to hold heat for a long time, making them ideal for a relaxing hot bath.

Hydrofluoric Acid


Hydrofluoric acid (HF) is a highly corrosive and dangerous acid. It is used in various industrial processes, including glass etching, aluminum refining, and the production of fluorocarbons. Hydrofluoric acid is particularly dangerous because it can penetrate the skin and damage bones. It is often used in fictional depictions of dissolving bodies, but it is important to note that this is a dangerous and unrealistic practice.

Breaking Bad


Breaking Bad is a critically acclaimed television series that follows the story of Walter White, a high school chemistry teacher who turns to cooking methamphetamine to secure his family's financial future. The show is known for its intense drama, complex characters, and realistic portrayal of the drug trade. It has become a cultural phenomenon and has sparked discussions about the ethics of science and the consequences of bad choices.

Q&A

  • What is the podcast's new ad partnership, and how will it affect the show?

    The podcast has joined a network of independent podcasts, which will allow them to receive advertising revenue and grow the show. This will enable them to invest in better equipment, attend conferences, and expand their reach. However, an ad-free version will remain available for patrons.

  • What are PFAS, and why is the EPA announcing a new drinking water standard for them?

    PFAS are man-made chemicals that are used in many products and are known as "forever chemicals" because they don't break down in the environment. They have been linked to various health problems, and the EPA is announcing a legally enforceable drinking water standard to protect communities from exposure to harmful PFAS.

  • Why do you need yogurt to make more yogurt?

    You don't technically need yogurt to make more yogurt, as you can let it ferment from the bacteria that already exist. However, using existing yogurt provides a specific strain of bacteria that will act the way you want it to, making the process faster and potentially safer.

  • What is the best tub material for a hot bath, and why?

    The hosts believe that cast iron tubs are the best for heat retention, as they will hold heat for a long time. However, they acknowledge that this is a complex question and that a materials chemist could provide a more definitive answer.

  • What are the hosts' favorite chemistry topics?

    The hosts' favorite chemistry topics include the challenges of teaching chemistry effectively, the misconceptions surrounding organic chemistry, and the joy of applying chemistry to everyday life. They also enjoy discussing topics that come up in real life, such as the difference between margarine and butter.

Show Notes

Question and Response 56


In this bonus edition of Chemistry for Your Life, hosts Melissa and Jam engage with their listeners by answering a variety of chemistry-related questions and addressing listener comments and reviews. They read and discuss both positive and constructive reviews, and provide important updates about joining a network for the podcast. They also talk about the introduction of advertisements, the benefits of becoming a patron for an ad-free experience, and some behind-the-scenes improvements to enhance the show. The episode includes shout-outs to long-time listeners and special mentions of devoted classes and followers. Key discussions cover effective materials for hot baths, making water drinkable in emergencies, and the process of making yogurt, among other chemistry inquiries. The show wraps up with a reminder about the importance of engaging in scientific and political processes to promote environmental safety.


00:00 Introduction and Listener Questions Teaser

00:49 Podcast Reviews: The Good, The Bad, and The Funny

02:31 Sponsorships and Exciting Updates

07:37 Shoutouts and Special Mentions

11:02 Chemistry Q&A: From Yogurt to Water Safety

20:02 Fun Chemistry Facts and Final Thoughts


 


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Ask a Chemist: Why do you need yogurt to make yogurt? (And other questions)

Ask a Chemist: Why do you need yogurt to make yogurt? (And other questions)

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