Watch Mystery of Matter

Mystery of Matter is a documentary series that dives deep into the history of chemistry and the incredible discoveries that have shaped modern science. Produced by PBS, the show is hosted by renowned historian and author Michael Mosley, and features interviews with leading experts in chemistry and physics.

The series is broken down into three parts, each of which explores a different aspect of chemistry's evolution. The first episode, "Out of Thin Air," examines the early history of chemistry, from ancient alchemy to the groundbreaking work of French chemist Antoine Lavoisier. Mosley and his team delve into the fascinating world of gases, exploring how scientists first came to understand the properties of air and how they used this knowledge to make groundbreaking discoveries about the nature of matter.

The second episode, "Unruly Elements," takes viewers on a journey through the periodic table of elements. The show explores the history of how scientists first began to categorize the different elements and traces the development of our modern understanding of atomic structure. Mosley and his team uncover stories of groundbreaking experiments and discover the incredible feats of imagination that allowed scientists to unlock the secrets of the universe.

In the third and final episode, "Into the Atom," Mosley explores the mysteries of the atom and the quantum mechanics that underpin modern physics. The show features interviews with some of the world's leading physicists, who explain how scientists have come to understand the strange and bizarre properties of sub-atomic particles. Viewers are taken on a journey through the history of nuclear research, from the first atomic bomb to cutting-edge experiments with quantum computing.

Throughout all three episodes, Mosley is an engaging and enthusiastic guide, conveys a sense of wonder and curiosity that his infectious. The show makes use of stunning visual effects, including computer simulations and animations that bring the world of chemistry and physics to life. The writing is crisp and informative, and the show never feels dry or overly technical, making it accessible to viewers with little background in science.

One of the strengths of Mystery of Matter is its focus on the human stories behind scientific discovery. The show features interviews with chemists and physicists who have dedicated their lives to understanding the natural world, and who share their personal stories of the thrill of discovery and the challenges of working at the forefront of scientific research. The show also makes an effort to highlight the contributions of female scientists and scientists of color, who have often been marginalized in the history of science.

Overall, Mystery of Matter is an excellent documentary series that should appeal to anyone with an interest in science, history or the natural world. It is an exploration of a fundamental aspect of our universe that is both informative and awe-inspiring, and it is presented in a way that is both engaging and accessible. Whether you are a seasoned scientist or simply curious about the world around you, Mystery of Matter is a show that is sure to inspire and amaze.