A Spark of Science

Did you know that Scotland is a leader in technology and scientific advancements from penicillin and MRI scanners, to televisions and toasters. Join us as we showcase some more Scottish science stories. First broadcast on 14/05/21

Join us while we explore photosynthesis, the process plants use to get the energy they need to grow and thrive. First broadcast on 07/05/2021

A dream team of robotic explorers have arrived on Mars. Join us as we find out what these machines could reveal about the red planet. Please note that the competition mentioned in this podcast is now closed. First broadcast on 30/04/2021

Energy is a key aspect of our lives. How can we meet our high energy demands, without damaging the planet? As well as ensuring its affordable and accessible to all. First broadcast on 23/04/2021

About three-quarters of the Earth's surface is covered in undrinkable salt water. Only 3% of all the water on Earth is fresh and fit to drink, so what can we do to save this precious resource. First broadcast on 16/04/2021

Come with us on a journey with Soviet Cosmonaut Yuri Gagarin as he makes the thrilling first journey into space. First broadcast on 09/04/2021

It's the season of eating chocolate! But where does it come from and how is it made? First broadcast on 02/04/2021

Did you know that the introduction of train travel in the UK was responsible for the centralised time keeping system we use today? First broadcast one 26/03/21

In this episode of A Spark of Science we're exploring the chemicals inside your brain that contribute to feelings of happiness, and discussing ways you can spark their release. First broadcast on 19/13/2021

Do you think cities are busy? Well in 2050 it is expected that 70% of all humans will live and work in cities! Join us as we think about how these cities might look in the future. First broadcast on 12/03/2021

In this episode of A Spark of Science we are looking at the lives of three different female scientists that have inspired the staff at Glasgow Science Centre. First broadcast on 05/03/2021

Do you know any animals that hibernate? Hedgehogs, Door mice and Bats are the three UK mammals that hide away for the winter. But why do they do it, and why is it an exhausting process? First broadcast on 26/02/2021

Are you getting enough sleep? We sleep for one third of our lives and it is very important for our health and wellbeing. Join us as we discus the science of sleep in this episode of A Spark of Science. First broadcast on 19/02/2021

Nurdles are small plastic pellets that are used to make all other plastic products. These small objects often end up in the bellies of fish and other creatures. Why does this happen and how can we stop it? First broadcast on 12/02/2021

Did you know that there are 24 different species of bumblebee in the UK? Where do they live and why are they known as a keystone species? Lets explore in this episode of A Spark of Science. First broadcast on 05/02/2021

Biodiversity is all the plants and animals that live in any one area. Why is biodiversity important and how can we help protect it? First broadcast on 29/01/2021

Forests provide oxygen, shelter and food, and are a vital resource in our fight against climate change. Learn how environmental scientists are using small spaces to create tiny but powerful forests. First broadcast on 22/01/2021

Have you ever wondered why it is so important to recycle your food waste rather than sending it to landfill? We have the facts and the advice to help you reduce your food waste. First broadcast on 15/01/2021

In this episode of A Spark of Science we are asking the question: what do ABBA and Mariah Carey have in common to help us tackle climate change? First broadcast on 08/01/2021

The Schiehallion experiment was carried out in 1774, and attempted to weigh the Earth using only a plumb line and an unusually pointy mountain! How could this simple piece of equipment and this Scottish mountain measure the whole planet? First broadcast on 31/12/2020

To visit all 108 million homes on Christmas eve, Santa will have to travel at a tremendous speed! Let's use science to calculate how fast this jolly gentleman will have to travel. First broadcast on 25/12/2020

Did you know that some of us are scientifically wired to NOT like brussels sprouts? Today we are exploring why this is and what it means to be a supertaster. First broadcast on 18/12/2020

Today we are discussing the sustainability differences between artificial Christmas trees and real ones, and asking the question 'Is an artificial tree for life or just for Christmas'. First broadcast on 11/12/2020

In this festive episode of A Spark of Science we are exploring how snowflakes are made and what causes them to be shaped like a hexagon. First broadcast on 04/12/2020

How does our brain remember all the things we need to remember every day? And how can we train our brains to become stronger and more flexible to remember new information? First broadcast on 27/11/2020