The Science of Christmas

It's nearly Christmas and what better way to celebrate then with some Christmas Science?

You can now read all of our Christmas Science posts in one go!

So, if you ever wondered what Frankincense really is, why Rudolph the red-nosed reindeer must have been female or where Holly comes from, you can find out here.

If you want to  find out more about the Robin, a constant feature of Christmas greeting cards or about Christmas Cacti or Myrh this is the place to be!

Another post features Sir Isaac Newton who was born on Christmas Day and we also look at how the unique odours of Christmas are far more evocative in winter than summer.

We look at Irish grown Christmas Trees, the science of making those trees last longer in your living room and how a small amount of alcohol with your Christmas Dinner won't increase indigestion.

There's a witty take on research to the tune of "The Twelve Days of Christmas" and some great ideas for science tricks at the Christmas Party.

We look at the science of Mistletoe and last year's winter solstice which coincided with a total lunar eclipse. We examine that humble Christmas gift, the Orange and see why it really is such a great source of vitamin C and why 'hunting and gathering' may have a role to play in why we do our Christmas Shopping as we do.

A new mistletoe species was discovered by Kew last year - we look at that and a few more recent discoveries in the plant world. Finally, we take a quick look at some of the Science of Santa Claus.

In the run up to Christmas, take some time to enjoy some fun Christmas Science. To see the full list of Christmas Science posts, click here.