Dr. Joe & What You Didn’t Know

Dr. Joe Schwarcz has been making sense of science in print, on television, and on CJAD radio for many years.

In his latest book, his inquiring mind comes to grips with 177 more fascinating “Questions & Answers about the Chemistry of Everyday Life.” A simple question from Schwarcz can have a complex chemical explanation. Why does coffee heated in the microwave foam up when you add sugar? involves an explanation of superheating and boiling. How can you prevent brown sugar from lumping? leads to a discussion of molecular properties.

Schwarcz’s enthusiasm and interest for science make things we take for granted at the same time both less mysterious and more full of wonder. mRb