December 18, 2009 - 2:51am
Who can resist the taste of heptenal at this time of year?
Vancouver Island University chemistry professor Todd Barsby explains
that heptenal is the compound that gives mashed potatoes an earthy taste. It’s
one of the insights offered by members of VIU’s Faculty of Science and
Technology on this week’s Not Rocket Science radio broadcast.
The holiday theme continues with astronomy professor Greg
Arkos talking about using computer software to simulate the night sky 2009
years ago and give possible explanations for the Star of Bethlehem. Resource
management professor Liz Gillis weighs in on a possible reason for Rudolph the
reindeer’s red nose.
Barsby says scientists tend to agree that the magic of
Christmas is a more appealing interpretation than potential biological causes
for Rudolph’s condition. “The best bet is that it’s a particularly nasty
parasite infection of the nose which can cause a lot of swelling and bleeding.”
The bi-weekly radio show is entering its third season with
participants examining a variety of topics. The concept for a campus-based show
-- a low-key version of CBC’s Quirks and Quarks -- came out of a brainstorming
session among faculty members.
“The idea was to raise awareness of science and VIU’s
presence in the community,” Barsby said.
It’s difficult to assess how many listeners tune in but
Barsby said there are plenty of emails when a show touches on a particularly
hot topic such as climate change or when math problems are posed.
“We’ve had a very positive response,” he said.
The show is broadcast Saturdays at 1:30 pm and repeated
Thursdays 1:30 pm on Radio Malaspina 101.7 FM in Nanaimo and online at chly.ca.
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For more information, contact Todd Barsby by email: notrocketscience@viu.ca
Tags: In the Community
