In this episode, we look at several cases of how measurements affect scientific research and practice as well as daily life. We also explore two instances where the âstandardsâ are changing: debates over how to fix the standard kilogram; and the International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistryâs recent decision to change the atomic weights of five elements. Washington Post food science writer Robert Wolke joins us to discuss the chemistry of cooking. The Element of the Week: platinum.
Distillations is produced by the Chemical Heritage Foundation. For more information, visit distillations dot chemheritage dot org.