Let the games begin

The podcast explores the science behind the Winter Olympics, ranging from the aerodynamics of ski jumping suit controversies to the different crystalline structures of ice. It highlights the story of Shiva Kesavan, an Indian luge pioneer scouted after the movie Cool Runnings, and the physics involved in luge, where athletes reach high speeds while minimizing aerodynamic drag. Professor Christoph Salzmann, also known as Iceman, explains the 21 different forms of ice and their unique properties, including a new amorphous form with a density similar to liquid water. The podcast also touches on the discovery of dinosaur footprints near the Winter Olympics site and the potential for disease transmission during the games, balancing mental and physical wellbeing.