Can A Word Make A Smell Exist?

Does language shape reality? What is Earth’s escape velocity? How does soap kill germs? And can a scientific theory be completely wrong but still appear to work? In this episode of The Rest Is Science, Professor Hannah Fry and Michael Stevens (Vsauce) explore linguistics, psychology, colour perception, space travel, bacteria, viruses and the scientific method. It begins with a Persian word for a smell Hannah cannot detect on a freshly washed plate. Could having a name for something make it easier to notice? From the Sapir-Whorf hypothesis and Russian words for blue to emotions, identity and Michael’s unexpectedly large crayon collection, Hannah and Michael investigate how language may shape what we pay attention to and how we experience the world. Then, your questions. How fast would you need to throw a rock for it to escape Earth? Could it survive the atmosphere, or would it take something the size of the Chicxulub asteroid to make it out? They also uncover the ancient origins of soap, how it removes dirt and attacks some bacteria and viruses, and why getting bleach on your hands makes them feel disturbingly slippery. ------------------- For more information about Cancer Research UK, their research, breakthroughs and how you can support them, visit ⁠https://www.cancerresearchuk.org/our-research/rest-is-science Cancer Research UK is a registered charity in England and Wales (1089464), Scotland (SC041666), the Isle of Man (1103) and Jersey (247). A company limited by guarantee. Registered company in England and Wales (4325234) and the Isle of Man (5713F). Registered address: 2 Redman Place, London, E20 1JQ. ------------------- Video Editor: Jack Meek Animator: Sam Benson Video & Social: Bex Tyrrell Assistant Producer: Lucy Lipscombe Producer: Simona Rata Senior Producer: Lauren Armstrong-Carter Chief Digital Officer: Samuel Oakley Exec Producer: Neil Fearn