- The Ascent of Man (1973)
- The Chemist (2015)
- Periodic Table of Videos (2008)
- The World of Chemistry (1990)
- The Secret Life of the Periodic Table (2007)
- The Story of Science: Power, Proof and Passion (2010)
- The Element in the Room (2017)
- The Chemistry of Life (2012)
- The Power of the Atom (1992)
- The Molecule of More (2019)
Chemistry, the science that explores the composition, structure, properties, and reactions of matter, has brought about some of the most transformative discoveries in human history. This curated list of documentaries delves into the fascinating world of chemical breakthroughs, offering viewers a glimpse into the minds of the scientists who changed our understanding of the universe. From the discovery of elements to the creation of life-saving drugs, these films not only educate but also inspire, showcasing the relentless pursuit of knowledge and its impact on our daily lives.
The Ascent of Man (1973)
Description: While not exclusively about chemistry, this iconic series by Jacob Bronowski includes episodes that delve into the history of chemical discoveries, highlighting their significance in human progress.
Fact: The series was one of the first to use slow-motion photography to illustrate scientific concepts.
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The Chemist (2015)
Description: This documentary follows the life and work of a chemist, showcasing the daily challenges and triumphs in the lab, offering a personal perspective on chemical research.
Fact: The film was shot in a real research lab, providing an authentic look at the scientific process.
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Periodic Table of Videos (2008)
Description: This series of short films explores each element of the periodic table, making complex chemistry accessible and entertaining. It's a must-watch for anyone curious about the building blocks of our world.
Fact: The series was created by Professor Martyn Poliakoff, who has become an internet sensation for his engaging explanations of chemistry.
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The World of Chemistry (1990)
Description: This educational series provides an in-depth look at the principles of chemistry, covering topics from atomic theory to the chemistry of life, making it an excellent primer for understanding chemical discoveries.
Fact: It was produced by the Annenberg/CPB Project, known for its high-quality educational programming.
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The Secret Life of the Periodic Table (2007)
Description: This documentary explores the stories behind the elements, their discovery, and their impact on society, offering a narrative approach to the periodic table.
Fact: The film features interviews with leading chemists and historians of science.
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The Story of Science: Power, Proof and Passion (2010)
Description: Michael Mosley's series covers the history of science, with several episodes dedicated to chemical discoveries, providing context and drama to the scientific process.
Fact: The series was praised for its ability to make complex scientific concepts accessible to the general public.
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The Element in the Room (2017)
Description: This documentary series explores how elements shape our world, from the air we breathe to the technology we use, highlighting key chemical discoveries.
Fact: The series uses a mix of animation and live-action to explain complex chemical concepts.
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The Chemistry of Life (2012)
Description: Focused on biochemistry, this documentary examines how chemical reactions drive life processes, from DNA replication to enzyme function.
Fact: It features interviews with leading biochemists and includes stunning visualizations of molecular interactions.
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The Power of the Atom (1992)
Description: While primarily about nuclear physics, this documentary includes significant segments on the chemical aspects of atomic theory and its implications.
Fact: The film was part of a larger series on the history of science and technology.
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The Molecule of More (2019)
Description: This documentary explores the chemistry of dopamine, a molecule that influences our behavior and drives innovation, linking chemical discoveries to human behavior.
Fact: The film was inspired by the book of the same name by Daniel Z. Lieberman and Michael E. Long.
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