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The Smell of Durian Explained

Season 4 Episode 23 | 5m 21s

Reactions is exploring the science and chemistry of the King of Fruits today. Durian is banned from many public spaces in Southeast Asia due to its powerful odor. This week’s Reactions video explains the unique chemistry behind durian, and catches our co-hosts at PBS Digital Studios reacting to this stinky delicacy as they try it for the first time.

Aired: 08/14/17
Extras
George visits chemists and discovers that Mexican Coke is doing something secretive.
We test if DNA from strawberries and salmon can really make fabric flame resistant.
Are there really microplastics in chewing gum? George tries to find out.
Is water bending real?
George tries to make a new discovery in a huge field of science... and he might have.
This week Alex takes to the lab and investigates the stable isotopes in 20 different honeys.
Rubbing two balloons together leads George to a shocking discovery.
Is baking soda a legal, performance enhancing drug?
George tries to make electricity using dialysis tubing, toilet parts, and a baby turbine.
Alex wonders what happens when hot water freezes quicker than room temperature water?
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George visits chemists and discovers that Mexican Coke is doing something secretive.
While it looks easy on paper to make citric acid at home, Chem Thug runs into some pitfalls.
We test if DNA from strawberries and salmon can really make fabric flame resistant.
Are there really microplastics in chewing gum? George tries to find out.
Is water bending real?
George tries to make a new discovery in a huge field of science... and he might have.
This week Alex takes to the lab and investigates the stable isotopes in 20 different honeys.
Rubbing two balloons together leads George to a shocking discovery.
Is baking soda a legal, performance enhancing drug?
George tries to make electricity using dialysis tubing, toilet parts, and a baby turbine.