Chemist Breaks Down 22 Chemistry Scenes From Movies & TV | WIRED

WIRED

22 Mar 202224:03

EducationalLearning

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TLDRDr. Kate Biberdorf, aka Kate the Chemist, critically examines the portrayal of chemistry in popular movies and TV shows. She discusses the accuracy of various chemical reactions depicted, such as the dissolution of bodies, the creation of nylon, and the handling of dangerous substances like VX nerve agent. Dr. Biberdorf highlights the importance of safety and proper chemical procedures, while also appreciating the role of chemistry in entertainment, despite the often exaggerated or inaccurate depictions.

Takeaways

🧪 Hydrofluoric acid (HF) is a weak acid and not the best choice for dissolving a body, as suggested in Breaking Bad.
🥼 Safety equipment is crucial when handling dangerous chemicals, as depicted in the scene from Breaking Bad.
🛠️ Gasoline could theoretically dissolve glue due to their similar non-polar properties, as mentioned in It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia.
🍪 The chemical process to create brownies in Rick and Morty is scientifically inaccurate, as the ingredients mentioned do not result in baked goods.
🕸️ The portrayal of the creation of a sticky substance in Spider-Man: Homecoming is incorrect; the actual chemical process would result in a clear, colorless solution.
🌟 Vibranium, a fictional element in Black Panther, does not exist in the periodic table, and its properties are purely imaginative.
🔥 The depiction of gasoline fights and explosions in movies like Zoolander and National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation are exaggerated and not scientifically accurate.
💣 The use of chloroform and other chemicals as portrayed in Community and Con Air is often misleading and not reflective of real-life effects.
🍃 The chemical burn scene in Fight Club is inaccurate; a base like sodium hydroxide would feel slippery rather than causing an intense burn.
🧴 The creation of 'elephant's toothpaste' in The Big Bang Theory is a fun and accurate representation of a chemical reaction involving hydrogen peroxide and a catalyst.

Q & A

What is Dr. Kate Biberdorf's area of expertise?
-Dr. Kate Biberdorf, also known as Kate the Chemist, is a scientist, author, and science entertainer who specializes in chemistry.
Why does Dr. Biberdorf consider hydrofluoric acid (HF) a weak acid and not ideal for dissolving a body?
-Hydrofluoric acid (HF) is considered a weak acid because it does not fully dissociate into hydronium ions, which are the active species responsible for reacting with and dissolving tissue. A stronger acid, like aqua regia, would be more effective in such a process, although it is not recommended for ethical and safety reasons.
What safety concern does Dr. Biberdorf point out in the scene from 'Breaking Bad'?
-In the 'Breaking Bad' scene, the character is standing next to a large container of hydrofluoric acid without any protective gear on his face. Dr. Biberdorf emphasizes that if the container were to break and splash onto him, it could cause severe and potentially fatal injuries due to the corrosive nature of the acid.
What is the correct procedure for adding acid to water, according to Dr. Biberdorf?
-The correct procedure is to always add acid to water, not the other way around. This is because adding water to acid can cause a violent and dangerous reaction, potentially leading to accidents and injuries in the lab.
How does gasoline relate to the non-polar substance in the 'It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia' clip?
-Gasoline is a non-polar substance, which means it has similar properties to other non-polar substances like glue. In theory, using a non-polar solvent like gasoline could dissolve another non-polar substance, such as glue, although there are many better and safer alternatives available.
What is incorrect about the chemical process portrayed in 'Rick and Morty' for making chemical brownies?
-The chemical process shown in 'Rick and Morty' for making brownies is incorrect because titanium nitrate is a colorless solid and chlorified tartrate, as mentioned in the script, does not exist. Additionally, mixing these substances would not result in brownies, but rather a different chemical reaction altogether.
What is the issue with the depiction of the chemical reaction in 'Spider-Man: Homecoming'?
-The issue with the depiction in 'Spider-Man: Homecoming' is that the drawing of the chemical structure is inaccurate and would not result in a sticky substance as portrayed. Instead, the reaction would produce a clear, colorless solution that resembles salt water.
How does Dr. Biberdorf describe the portrayal of chemistry in 'Breaking Bad' in terms of safety?
-Dr. Biberdorf approves of the safety measures portrayed in 'Breaking Bad', as the characters are shown wearing gas masks, protective clothing, and gloves, which are appropriate for handling hazardous chemicals and protecting against potential accidents.
What is the scientific explanation behind the explosion in the 'Zoolander' gasoline fight scene?
-The explosion in the 'Zoolander' scene is scientifically inaccurate because a small flame, like from a lighter, would not cause such a large explosion. While the flame could ignite gasoline vapors, it would not create the dramatic 'boom, boom, boom' effect shown in the movie.
How does Dr. Biberdorf describe the use of chloroform in 'Community'?
-Dr. Biberdorf explains that using chloroform to smother someone with a rag would not cause immediate unconsciousness. Instead, it would take about five minutes for the person to pass out, and a small amount of chloroform would initially produce a euphoric feeling before loss of consciousness, similar to the effects of alcohol or other drugs.
What is the correct way to test the purity of a substance like cocaine, as shown in 'Blow'?
-In 'Blow', the character uses a melting point apparatus to test the purity of the substance. In chemistry, a pure substance has a specific melting point, so measuring this can indicate the purity of the material. Pure cocaine would melt at around 185 to 190 degrees Celsius, and the apparatus used is a common method for characterizing molecules and testing their purity.

Outlines

00:00

🧪 Chemistry in Pop Culture: Debunking Myths and Misconceptions

This paragraph delves into the portrayal of chemistry in movies and TV shows, highlighting inaccuracies and providing scientific explanations. Dr. Kate Biberdorf, also known as Kate the Chemist, critiques scenes from popular media, such as 'Breaking Bad' and 'It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia', where chemical reactions and processes are often exaggerated or misrepresented. She explains the properties of hydrofluoric acid, the implausibility of certain chemical reactions, and the importance of safety in a lab setting. The summary emphasizes the need for accurate representation of scientific concepts in entertainment media to avoid misleading audiences.

05:02

🌌 The Origin of Elements and the Art of Chemistry

This section discusses the origin of elements on Earth and the role of chemistry in various aspects of life. It begins with a discussion on how elements like vibranium, from 'Black Panther', are theoretically brought to Earth through cosmic events. The paragraph also covers safety measures in chemical processes, as seen in 'Breaking Bad', and the use of standard equipment in chemical labs and industries. Additionally, it touches on the unrealistic portrayal of chemical reactions, such as the creation of nylon in 'Spider-Man: Homecoming', and the fictional elements that defy real-world chemistry, like the 'vibranium' from the Black Panther universe.

10:03

💥 The Explosive Side of Chemistry: Fact vs. Fiction

This paragraph examines the depiction of explosive chemical reactions in films and differentiates between realistic and exaggerated scenarios. It critiques the portrayal of gasoline explosions in 'Zoolander' and the unrealistic chain reaction in 'National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation'. The summary points out the dangers of dousing oneself with gasoline and the inaccuracies in the depiction of cigar and cigarette explosions in 'National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation' and 'Con Air'. It also discusses the proper use of chloroform in 'Community' and the accurate representation of purity testing in 'Blow', highlighting the importance of scientific accuracy in storytelling.

15:06

🧴 Chemical Reactions and Their Effects on the Human Body

This section focuses on the effects of chemical substances on the human body, as depicted in various films. It addresses the inaccurate portrayal of a chemical burn from a base in 'Fight Club' and the creation of foam in 'The Big Bang Theory'. The paragraph also explores the unrealistic internal chemical reaction in 'Spider-Man' and the explanation of a nuclear reactor and disaster in 'Chernobyl'. The summary emphasizes the importance of understanding the true effects of chemicals and the potential dangers of misrepresenting them in media.

20:06

🥽 Scientific Mishaps and the Importance of Safety in Laboratories

This paragraph highlights the importance of safety in scientific experiments and the mishaps that can occur when proper precautions are not taken. It discusses the improper handling of chemicals in 'Mr. Bean: The Whole Bean' and the dangerous use of liquid nitrogen in 'Terminator 2: Judgment Day'. The section also touches on the historical issue of radium poisoning in 'Radium Girls' and the unrealistic portrayal of toxic chemical handling in 'Casino Royale'. The summary underscores the need for accurate depictions of scientific procedures and the potential consequences of ignoring safety measures.

🌬️ The Power and Danger of Chemicals in Fiction

The final paragraph discusses the power of chemicals as depicted in fiction, emphasizing the difference between entertainment and reality. It addresses the creation of water in 'The Martian' and the handling of dangerous chemicals in 'The Rock'. The summary points out the exaggerated effects of chemical reactions and the importance of accurate scientific representation in media. It concludes by reiterating the love for chemistry and its inclusion in popular culture, despite the sometimes misleading portrayals.

Mindmap

Keywords

💡Chemistry

Chemistry is the scientific study of the composition, structure, properties, and change of matter. In the context of the video, chemistry is portrayed through various scenarios in movies and TV shows, often with a focus on dramatic reactions and dangerous substances. The video uses chemistry to debunk misconceptions and provide accurate scientific explanations for the depicted events.

💡Hydrofluoric Acid (HF)

Hydrofluoric acid is a highly corrosive and toxic acid used in various industrial processes. In the video, it is mentioned in relation to the TV show Breaking Bad, where it is inaccurately portrayed as capable of dissolving a human body. The video clarifies that HF is a weak acid and thus not as effective at dissolving tissues compared to stronger acids like aqua regia.

💡Aqua Regia

Aqua regia, also known as royal water, is a highly corrosive mixture of concentrated nitric acid and concentrated hydrochloric acid. It is capable of dissolving many materials, including gold and certain plastics. In the video, it is suggested as a more effective substance for body dissolution than hydrofluoric acid, albeit in a tongue-in-cheek manner, emphasizing the importance of safety and ethical considerations in scientific practices.

💡Safety Equipment

Safety equipment refers to the protective gear used to prevent injury or exposure to hazardous materials. In the video, the lack of proper safety equipment in a scene from the TV show Breaking Bad is criticized, highlighting the importance of wearing appropriate gear such as gas masks, face shields, and hazmat suits when handling dangerous chemicals to ensure personal safety.

💡Gasoline

Gasoline, or petrol, is a transparent, petroleum-derived liquid that is commonly used as a fuel in internal combustion engines. In the video, a scene from the TV show It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia is discussed, where gasoline is suggested to dissolve glue. While gasoline is non-polar and shares similar properties with glue, the video points out that it is not an ideal or safe substance for such a purpose.

💡Titanium Nitrate

Titanium nitrate is an inorganic compound often used in the production of titanium dioxide, a pigment used in paints and coatings. In the video, it is humorously mentioned in a scene from the TV show Rick and Morty, where it is incorrectly used to make 'chemical brownies.' The video clarifies that mixing titanium nitrate with cream of tartar would not result in any kind of edible substance, highlighting the difference between fiction and reality in chemical reactions.

💡Nylon

Nylon is a synthetic polymer used in a variety of applications, including clothing, ropes, and parachutes. In the video, a scene from the movie Spider-Man: Homecoming is discussed, where the character attempts to create a sticky substance similar to Spider-Man's web using nylon. The video demonstrates the actual process of making nylon, which involves a chemical reaction that produces a long, fibrous polymer, contrasting the fictional depiction with a real-world chemical process.

💡Vibranium

Vibranium is a fictional metal in the Marvel Comics universe, known for its incredible strength and ability to absorb vibrations. In the video, it is mentioned in the context of the movie Black Panther. While vibranium is used as a central element in the story, the video notes that there is no real-world element with properties similar to vibranium, emphasizing the distinction between science fiction and actual scientific knowledge.

💡Methamphetamine

Methamphetamine, commonly known as meth, is a powerful central nervous system stimulant that is illegal in many countries due to its addictive properties and harmful effects. In the video, the process of making meth is discussed in relation to the TV show Breaking Bad. The video highlights the safety measures and equipment used in the show, such as gas masks and hazmat suits, and contrasts them with the reality of illegal drug production, which is dangerous and highly regulated.

💡Chemical Reactions

Chemical reactions involve the transformation of substances into new products through the reorganization of atoms. In the video, various chemical reactions are discussed, often in the context of their portrayal in movies and TV shows. The video corrects misconceptions and provides accurate information about the nature of these reactions, such as the decomposition of hydrogen peroxide in the 'elephant toothpaste' reaction or the theoretical possibility of using gasoline to dissolve glue.

💡Chemical Burns

Chemical burns are injuries caused by the reaction of a chemical with the skin or other tissues. In the video, a scene from the movie Fight Club is critiqued, where a character experiences a chemical burn from sodium hydroxide. The video clarifies the actual sensations and effects of a base-induced chemical burn, which differ from those portrayed in the film, and emphasizes the importance of understanding the properties of chemicals to prevent such injuries.

💡Exothermic Reactions

Exothermic reactions are chemical reactions that release energy in the form of heat. In the video, an example is given from the TV show The Big Bang Theory, where an 'elephant toothpaste' reaction is performed, which is an exothermic release of oxygen gas and heat energy. The video explains the science behind this entertaining demonstration, showing how the decomposition of hydrogen peroxide releases both heat and oxygen, and how it can be safely conducted with the proper equipment and knowledge.

Highlights

Dr. Kate Biberdorf, also known as Kate the Chemist, breaks down chemistry clips from movies and TV.

Hydrofluoric acid (HF) is a weak acid and not the best choice for dissolving a body, as depicted in Breaking Bad.

Aqua regia is suggested as a stronger acid that could potentially dissolve a body, but with a cautionary tone.

In lab safety, acid should always be added to water, not the other way around, to prevent dangerous reactions.

Gasoline could theoretically dissolve glue due to their similar non-polar properties, but it's not the best option.

Rick and Morty's chemical brownies recipe is scientifically inaccurate, with made-up chemicals.

Spider-Man: Homecoming inaccurately portrays the creation of a sticky substance, whereas nylon production is actually a clear, colorless process.

Vibranium, from Black Panther, is a fictional element not found on the periodic table.

Breaking Bad's safety measures in cooking meth are praised, including the use of gas masks and hazmat suits.

The gasoline fight scene in Zoolander is unrealistic in terms of flammability and explosion size.

National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation's sewer gas explosion is somewhat plausible due to the flammable hydrogen sulfide in sewer gas.

The cigarette explosion in Con Air is highly unlikely and not scientifically accurate.

Chemical burns from bases like sodium hydroxide feel slippery, not painful like acid burns, as depicted in Fight Club.

The Big Bang Theory's Sheldon Cooper accurately describes the exothermic release of oxygen in creating foam.

Spider-Man's gene-altering chemicals are deemed scientifically inaccurate and implausible.

The explanation of a nuclear reactor and disaster in Chernobyl is praised for its accuracy and clarity.

Mr. Bean: The Whole Bean showcases improper lab safety and equipment setup.

Liquid nitrogen can potentially shatter objects, but the exact scenario in Terminator 2 is unlikely.

Radium Girls highlights the historical danger of ingesting toxic chemicals like radium.

National Treasure's use of lemon juice for invisible ink is deemed scientifically inaccurate.

Casino Royale's use of sodium cyanide as a poison is scientifically accurate and very dangerous.

The Rock's handling of VX nerve agent is criticized for scientific inaccuracies, especially regarding its state and temperature.

The Martian's method of creating water from hydrazine and an iridium catalyst is scientifically sound, but safety precautions are overlooked.

Movies often exaggerate chemical reactions for dramatic effect, but the inclusion of chemistry is generally appreciated.

Transcripts

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Chemistry Myths Movie Analysis Scientific Accuracy Safety Measures Chemical Reactions Science Entertainment Fictional Science Chemical Hazards Scientific Mishaps Educational Critique