Ep 11. Combustion

Combustion is the eleventh episode in the third season of the popular British panel game show QI, which stands for Quite Interesting. The show is hosted by comedian and writer Stephen Fry, who is joined by regular panelist Alan Davies and a rotating cast of guests who are experts in various fields.

The theme for this episode is combustion, which refers to the process of burning. Fry and his guests explore different aspects of combustion, from the chemistry and physics behind it to the cultural and historical significance of fire.

To kick things off, Fry quizzes the guests on the origins of the word "combustion," revealing its Latin roots and explaining that it literally means "to burn together." From there, the discussion turns to the different materials that can be used as fuel for combustion, including wood, coal, and gas.

One of the key topics of the episode is the history of fire as a tool for humans. Fry and his guests discuss some of the earliest evidence of human-controlled fire, including ancient hearths and charred bones. They also delve into the ways in which fire has been used throughout history, from cooking and warmth to warfare and destruction.

Throughout the episode, Fry and his guests also explore the science behind combustion, including the chemistry of how fuels burn and the physics of flame. They tackle questions like why flames are often blue or yellow, how fire spreads, and what causes explosions.

One of the standout moments of the episode is a segment on spontaneous human combustion, which has long been a subject of fascination and fear. Fry and his guests examine some of the reported cases of people bursting into flames with no apparent cause, and debate whether such events are truly inexplicable or can be explained by science.

As always, the discussion is peppered with humor, as the guests compete to come up with the most interesting and entertaining anecdotes and factoids. Viewers can expect plenty of witty banter, surprising revelations, and unexpected twists and turns as Fry and his guests delve into the topic of combustion.

Overall, Combustion is a fascinating and entertaining episode of QI that will appeal to anyone with an interest in science, history, or just a good laugh. The show's signature blend of intellectual curiosity and irreverent humor makes for a fun and engaging viewing experience, and viewers are sure to come away with a deeper appreciation for the mysteries and marvels of combustion.