Episodes

  • THE INTERVIEW: Ms Davidson

    THE INTERVIEW: Ms Davidson
    Mar 2 2026

    In this special edition episode of The Chempod, we sit down with the remarkable Miss Davidson to explore her unique and inspiring journey in STEM. From her early days as a quiet student at school to her time studying Natural Sciences at the University of Cambridge, Miss Davidson’s path was anything but predictable.


    Discover how her fascination with the world around her led her from the halls of her university to becoming a loudspeaker engineer at KEF, where she combined her love for physics and sound. We delve into the science of acoustics and the thrill of designing cutting-edge audio technology.


    Now a dedicated physics teacher at Harrow, Miss Davidson shares her passion for the scientific method and offers invaluable advice for all aspiring scientists.

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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    6 mins
  • The Chemistry of Forensics

    The Chemistry of Forensics
    Feb 16 2026

    From a targeted attack at sunrise to the high-tech forensic labs, this episode pulls back the yellow tape to reveal the chemistry of crime-solving. We explore the critical toolkit of forensic scientists, starting with the high-stakes difference between quick presumptive tests—like the pink-turning Kastle-Meyer test—and the definitive confirmatory tests that hold up in a court of law.


    We dive into the investigation of firearms, explaining how the Modified Griess Test uncovers invisible gunpowder residue and how GC-MS technology creates a "molecular fingerprint" to identify unknown substances. Finally, we demystify the world of DNA analysis, from the "copy machine" power of PCR to the specialised Y-STR testing used to isolate genetic profiles. Whether it’s analysing a stained kitchen knife or searching the CODIS database for a match, discover how hard evidence ensures justice is served.

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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    18 mins
  • The Chemistry Behind Caramelisation

    The Chemistry Behind Caramelisation
    Feb 2 2026

    Caramelisation is an essential culinary process that turns simple ingredients into mouth-watering dishes, but what's actually happening when sugar goes from white crystals to that complex, nutty, bittersweet liquid?


    In today's episode of the chempod, we will explore the sticky but rich world of caramelisation, how it works, what foods it is involved with, and practical tips in the kitchen so that you can finesse the art of creating the perfect caramelised treat.

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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    15 mins
  • Valence Bond Theory Versus Molecular Orbital Theory

    Valence Bond Theory Versus Molecular Orbital Theory
    Jan 19 2026
    Everything in the world is made of atoms, and all atoms are connected by bonds—but what exactly are bonds, and how do they hold things together? Scientists have contemplated this throughout the 20th century, and two major theories have emerged from their musings: valence bond theory and molecular orbital theory. In this episode, we uncover how these theories rose as one of the first applications of quantum mechanics, opening in chemistry and physics a new area of study, as well as how they began a century-long feud yet to be resolved.

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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    26 mins
  • Season 2: Chempod is Back!

    Season 2: Chempod is Back!
    Jan 5 2026

    The Chempod is an outlet for the curious minds of potential chemists, a dedicated platform for your eager questions to be answered, a home to all life-long learners - that is what the ChemPod is here for.


    We are your hosts and Co-Presidents, Charlize and Vanessa.


    If you have any topics you would like to learn more about, or would like to join the team as a producer, editor or artist, please email chempod@harrowschool.hk or contact both of us.


    Let's get bonding!

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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    2 mins
  • Spectroscopy and Spectrophotometry: Development, Mechanism and Applications

    Spectroscopy and Spectrophotometry: Development, Mechanism and Applications
    Jan 15 2024
    What is the methodology behind forensics? How are proteins quantified? How do you tell if the compounds in your experiment are impure (to answer that 3 marker on your chemistry test)? Well then, spectroscopy and spectrophotometry will answer all your questions!

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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    14 mins
  • Samsung Batteries: Expanding... and Exploding?

    Samsung Batteries: Expanding... and Exploding?
    Nov 26 2023
    Some of you may have heard of or remember the incident back in 2016 when Samsung released the Galaxy Note 7, the phone infamous for its exploding battery. Recently, many content creators have discovered that several of their devices are expanding, with a notable trend – the majority of these problematic devices are Samsung's. Join us as we delve into this concerning revelation and explore the implications of Samsung batteries expanding, and possibly, exploding

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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    6 mins
  • Blood in the Lab: The Chemistry Behind Fake blood

    Blood in the Lab: The Chemistry Behind Fake blood
    Nov 5 2023
    Have you ever wanted to fake an injury to skip a class? Have you ever wanted to pretend to be a soldier in a war, fighting for their country? Or, even better, have you ever wanted to act like a surgeon performing surgery? Well… I have just the perfect solution for you.

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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    5 mins