Short Wave

Short Wave

NPR

New discoveries, everyday mysteries, and the science behind the headlines — in just under 15 minutes. It's science for everyone, using a lot of creativity and a little humor. Join hosts Emily Kwong and Regina Barber for science on a different wavelength.

If you're hooked, try Short Wave Plus. Your subscription supports the show and unlocks a sponsor-free feed. Learn more at plus.npr.org/shortwave

Categories: Science & Medicine

Listen to the last episode:

NOTE: This episode contains multiple high-pitched noises (human and other animals) that some listeners might find startling or distressing.

In this episode, host Regina G. Barber and NPR correspondent Nate Rott dive into the science behind the sound of fear. Along the way, they find out what marmot shrieks, baby cries and horror movie soundtracks have in common — and what all of this tells us about ourselves.

If you like this episode, check out our episode on fear and horror movies.

Curious about other science powering the human experience? Email us at shortwave@npr.org and we might cover your topic on a future episode!

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Previous episodes

  • 1163 - The Sound Of Fear: Why Do Animals Scream? 
    Wed, 30 Oct 2024
  • 1162 - Embracing Death: Why We Age 
    Tue, 29 Oct 2024
  • 1161 - Honey, They Cloned The Apples! 
    Mon, 28 Oct 2024
  • 1160 - Saving The Hawaiian Tree Snails 
    Fri, 25 Oct 2024
  • 1159 - A Brand New Kind of Schizophrenia Treatment 
    Wed, 23 Oct 2024
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