Curiosity Daily Podcast: Why Is Life Based on Carbon and Not Silicon?

Learn about why life is based on carbon and not silicon, whether you should be using plastic or wood cutting boards, and how jealous feelings can help maintain friendships.

November 19, 2020

Episode Show Notes:

Why is life based on carbon and not silicon? by Cameron Duke

Should you be using plastic or wood cutting boards? by Joanie Faletto

Jealous feelings can help maintain friendships by Kelsey Duke

Episode referenced in recap:

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