Today's show focuses on the chemistry of sound. Modern stereo speakers, for example, depend on magnetic alloys based on an ironically abundant rare earth metal. We also get behind the truth underneath the myriad urban legends surrounding Pop Rocks, a candy that sizzles when you eat it. Finally, producer Catherine Girardeau takes us to the studios of Bart Hopkin and Oliver DiCicco, two artists who make experimental sonic art. Element of the Week? Neodymium.
Distillations is produced by the Chemical Heritage Foundation. For more information, visit distillations dot chemheritage dot org.