Star Wars Day, celebrated on May the 4th, serves as an opportunity to delve into the chemistry of the iconic galaxy far, far away. Professor Alex Baker from the University of Warwick has taken on the task of uncovering the real-world science that inspired the fantastical elements of the Star Wars universe. Through his research, Professor Baker has shed light on the connections between science fiction and science fact, showcasing the captivating influence of chemistry on the fictional realm of Star Wars.
Professor Baker’s exploration extends to various aspects of the Star Wars universe, including the freezing of Han Solo, the colors of lightsabers, and the reactions that fuel star ships. He highlights how common chemical elements, such as liquid oxygen and sodium, are not only fictional components in Star Wars but also play crucial roles in our reality. For instance, liquid oxygen is utilized in rocket engines to generate thrust, demonstrating its explosive potential when combined with fuel. Similarly, sodium’s reaction with water to produce hydrogen gas mirrors its explosive nature in both universes.
Chemicals containing nitrogen are another fundamental aspect of warfare in the Star Wars galaxy, as indicated by Professor Baker. While fictional compounds like Baradium nitrate are prevalent in the fictional realm, their real-life counterparts, such as nitrates in explosives like TNT, showcase the crossover between fiction and reality. By conducting experiments on the violent reactions of nitric acid with nitrogen-containing compounds, Professor Baker illustrates the destructive power wielded by chemicals in warfare scenarios.
Cryogens, often associated with freezing and preservation, find resonance in both worlds as demonstrated by Professor Baker’s research. He draws parallels between the cryogenic compounds used to freeze objects on Earth and the iconic scene of Han Solo’s freezing in the Star Wars saga. Additionally, through flame test experiments, Professor Baker replicates the vibrant colors of lightsabers by showcasing how different elements emit distinct hues when heated. This phenomenon, rooted in the excitation and emission of electrons within atoms, elucidates the science behind the captivating visuals of lightsabers in the Star Wars universe.
Professor Alex Baker’s exploration of the chemistry behind Star Wars reveals the intricate interplay between science fiction and science fact. By dissecting the elements and reactions that underpin various aspects of the Star Wars universe, he illustrates how real-world chemistry serves as a source of inspiration for imaginative storytelling. Through his experiments and demonstrations, Professor Baker showcases the profound impact of chemistry on popular culture and emphasizes the parallels between the fantastical galaxy of Star Wars and the scientific principles governing our own reality.