Reddit Chemistry: Why do metals make different-colored flames? (and other questions)

Reddit Chemistry: Why do metals make different-colored flames? (and other questions)

August 13, 2026 · 46 min

About this episode

Melissa and Jam explore various chemistry-related questions sourced from Reddit, including the science behind colored flames and other intriguing topics.

What happens when a chemist ventures onto Reddit to answer the internet’s most pressing science questions? Why does carbon get its own entire branch of chemistry, what makes fireworks burn different colors, and can an invention work even when its inventor has no idea why? Melissa and Jam tackle those mysteries, plus laboratory disasters, stress recovery, wireless charging, and one surprisingly complicated “Am I the Jerk?” dilemma. It’s chemistry support for the internet, because Reddit clearly has plenty of need for it.

People in this episode

Hosts: Melissa, Jam

Topics covered

Keywords

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Reddit

Products: wireless charging

Books & works: Am I the Jerk?

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