
The chemical breakdown is your biweekly source of the latest chemistry news, featuring discussions by our Chemistry World writers on the most exciting announcements and innovations in the field. Plus the full archive of Chemistry in its element – the audio tour of the periodic table and beyond. From Chemistry World, the magazine of the Royal Society of Chemistry.
| Publishes | Twice monthly | Episodes | 637 | Founded | 10 years ago |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Number of Listeners | Categories | ChemistryNatural SciencesScience | |||

In this episode, we breakdown the controversy behind a collection of altered images in the online catalogue of one of the largest laboratory suppliers, and discuss the complexity behind chemical recycling of plastics with Frankie Macpherson and Phill... more
In this episode, we reflect on the lessons learned and the impacts of the Seveso chemical disaster of 1976, and discuss the latest membrane materials that could slash the energy required to refine crude oil with Jamie Durrani and Mason Wakley.
Fift... more
In this episode, we bring the latest from the recent temporary reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, and discuss the presence of potential explosives at the historic Antarctic bases of explorers Ernest Shackleton and Robert Scott with Phillip Broadwith ... more
This week, we discuss the latest challenges facing US science outlined by president of the US National Academy of Sciences Marcia McNutt in her outgoing address as well as the unique chemistry underpinning wool's incredible properties with Neil Withe... more
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Sad that the series has ended, it was so interesting. Please come back!! 😭😭
This podcast is perfectly bite sized. It presents chemical and historical information on various compounds and elements in an effective and entertaining manner. I particularly enjoy the multiple different narrators.
Edit: just finished relistening to this podcast 2 years later, and it holds up just as well the second time through! I particularly enjoyed the comedic physical descriptors of the shapes of compounds.
One of the best podcasts out there. Such a shame they stopped producing any more episodes. Please please please bring it back. This podcast is the SOLE REASON i decided to become a doctor of chemistry.
Do you know how sometimes you go searching for podcasts, and click follow on the interesting titles so you can go back later? Sometimes you might not even pay attention to who produced it. No? I do this all the time.
Imagine my great delight to hear Dr. Chris Smith is part of this. I will update this review when I get caught up.
Finally returns after a long hiatus. One of the best podcasts.
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The show combines accessible, story-driven chemistry storytelling with in-depth exploration of current science news and historical chemistry topics. Episodes commonly cover regulatory, policy, and funding angles for science, alongside deep dives into materials, methods, and breakthroughs that affect industry and research. A notable strength is the ability to blend historical context with cutting-edge chemistry, often featuring Chemistry World editors and reporters who anchor discussions in clear, practical takeaways for both industry professionals and curious lay listeners. The format frequently uses multiple hosts or contributors to offer varied perspectives, making complex topics approachable without sacrificing technical nuance. For pote... more
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1. Chemistry For Your Life
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4. Big Picture Science
5. Physics World Weekly Podcast
this podcast launched 10 years ago and published 637 episodes to date. You can find more information about this podcast including rankings, audience demographics and engagement in our podcast database.
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Recent guests on this podcast include:
1. Frankie Macpherson
2. Phillip Broadwith
3. Paolo Moccarelli
4. Alastair Hay
5. Brenda Eskenazi
6. Philip Broadwith
7. Carolyn Bertosi
8. Sadiq Parikh
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