Ep 7. Iron

Look Around You is a British comedy television series that parodies educational science programs and consists of eight episodes. The seventh episode of season 1 titled "Iron" explores the enigmatic substance that has captivated humans throughout the ages.

The episode begins with the host Peter Packard introducing a new, state-of-the-art machine that can transform any element into iron. Dr. Lenny Lipton explains the properties and importance of iron, making the bold claim that "iron is everywhere." The audience then follows the production line of iron, starting with the extraction of raw iron ore from a mine, and ending with the creation of everyday objects such as scissors and nails.

Throughout the episode, the hosts tackle various aspects of iron, including its chemical composition, physical properties, and historical significance. The audience learns that the chemical symbol for iron (Fe) comes from the Latin word ferrum, which means "to bear," reflecting its usefulness in weaponry and construction. The hosts also highlight the importance of iron as a trace element in the human body, contributing to the production of red blood cells.

The audience is then taken on a tour of a steel mill where iron is heated to transform it into steel. This segment delves into the different types of steel and their various applications, with Dr. Lipton humorously donning a suit of armor to demonstrate the strength of steel.

In addition to the industrial applications of iron, the episode also explores its artistic and cultural significance. The hosts discuss how iron has been used in sculpture and architecture, highlighting famous landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower and the Iron Pillar of Delhi.

One of the standout moments of the episode is when the hosts conduct an experiment to showcase the magnetic properties of iron. Using a powerful electromagnet, they float a piece of iron in mid-air, much to the amazement of the audience.

The episode concludes with a humorous skit where the hosts attempt to create their own synthetic form of iron, resulting in a black hole that engulfs the studio. This skit is indicative of the tongue-in-cheek humor that permeates throughout the series.

Overall, "Iron" is an entertaining and informative episode that encapsulates the style and tone of Look Around You. With its offbeat humor and scientific accuracy, it serves as a tribute to the educational programs of yesteryear while simultaneously poking fun at their quirks and idiosyncrasies.