Engines of Our Ingenuity: Science Stories from Houston Public Radio

The Engines of Our Ingenuity is a daily radio program produced by Houston Public Media that explores how human creativity shapes our world. Each 3-minute episode tells stories about inventors, discoveries, and the history of technology. Host John Lienhard connects past innovations to modern life, helping us understand how ideas become reality. This episode examines an 1880 article about zinc and electric power, showing how scientists predicted future energy sources. The program airs weekdays and reaches listeners across Houston and beyond through 88.7 FM and online streaming. These science stories matter because they help us understand our innovative community. Houston is home to NASA, the Texas Medical Center, and major energy companies. Learning about scientific history helps us appreciate the discoveries happening in our own backyard. The show makes complex topics simple and connects them to everyday life. You can listen live on Houston Public Radio, stream episodes online, or download podcasts anytime. The program archives thousands of episodes covering everything from ancient inventions to space exploration. Support Houston Public Media through donations to keep these educational programs free for everyone. Sign up for their daily newsletter to get updates on new episodes and local programming.

Episode: 3377 An 1880 article seeks to anticipate the creation of electric power, beginning with Zinc. Today, we burn Zinc. Listen To embed this piece of audio in your site, please use this code: This article is part of the podcast Engines of Our Ingenuity Resources like these are made possible by the generosity of our community of donors, foundations, and corporate partners. Join others and make your gift to Houston Public Media today! DONATE Sign up for our daily weekday newsletter - Hello, Houston!SIGN UP NOW