Ask a Chemist: Are X-rays really bad for you? (and other questions)

Question and Response Melissa and Jam dive into a series of fascinating chemistry questions submitted by listeners. They explore how food affects the absorption rate of alcohol in the blood, the science behind shelf-stable milk turning solid after opening, and why dogs' feet might smell like Fritos. The duo also answers an intriguing question about the risks of dental X-rays versus ultraviolet radiation from the sun. Additionally, they discuss a fun science experiment involving dissolving candy canes in different liquids, providing a perfect activity for kids to learn about the world of chemistry. Special thanks to the community members and listeners whose questions keep the show engaging and informative. 00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview 02:23 How Food Affects Alcohol Absorption 06:42 Shelf-Stable Protein Shakes 10:26 Why Do Dogs' Feet Smell Like Fritos? 14:49 The Risks of X-Rays 17:56 Understanding Dental X-Ray Radiation 18:39 Annual Radiation Dose and Safety 19:32 Comparing Risks: Dental Issues vs. X-Rays 20:12 Why X-Ray Technicians Use Shields 20:59 Explaining Radiation Risks to the Public 22:55 Fun Science Experiments for Kids 25:31 Explaining Polarity and Dissolution to Kids 30:47 Encouraging Scientific Curiosity in Children 34:41 Supporting the Show and Community Shoutouts Support this podcast on Patreon Buy Podcast Merch and Apparel Check out our website at chemforyourlife.com Watch our episodes on YouTube Find us on Instagram , Twitter , and Facebook @ChemForYourLife References from the Episode: Thanks to our monthly supporters Amanda Raymond Emily Morrison Kyle McCray Justine Emily Hardy Ash Vince W Julie S. Heather Ragusa Autoclave Dorien VD Scott Beyer Jessie Reder J0HNTR0Y Jeannette Napoleon Cullyn R Erica Bee Elizabeth P Rachel Reina Letila Katrina Barnum-Huckins Suzanne Phillips Venus Rebholz Jacob Taber Brian Kimball Kristina Gotfredsen Timothy Parker Steven Boyles Chris Skupien Chelsea B Avishai Barnoy Hunter Reardon Support this podcast on Patreon Buy Podcast Merch and Apparel Check out our website at chemforyourlife.com Watch our episodes on YouTube Find us on Instagram , Twitter , and Facebook @ChemForYourLife Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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Ask a Chemist: Are X-rays really bad for you? (and other questions) is an episode from Chemistry For Your Life by Bleav + For Your Life.

This episode is 00:37:09 long.

This episode was published on Jan 8, 2026.

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