Superman would be a scientist’s dream. With his ever expanding list of powers, he could be like a walking, flying Kryptonian laboratory. He could x-ray patients for medical researchers for example. He could freeze biological samples for biologists. And for geologists — and jewelers — he could be even more valuable. Or so pop culture says. Could Superman really use his super strength and heat vision to transform coal into diamond?
In my latest episode of Because Science, I’m tackling an old superhero trope that I’ve heard since I was a kid. It’s a common belief that diamonds come from coal compressed inside the Earth, and so Superman — over decades of comics, movies, and TV shows — is commonly depicted replicating this process. It’s meant as an overwhelming show of strength, but we have to ask: do diamonds even come from coal?
And no matter their origin, could the perfect application of super strength and heat vision even create diamonds in the first place? You’ll have to watch my latest episode to find out!
After you watch the new episode above, check out my last video on why you don’t want super strength, buy a Because Science shirt, mug, hat, or collectible pin, and follow me on Twitter to give me a suggestion for the next episode or on Instagram. Want Because Science days before anyone else? Subscribe to Alpha for early access to the show and peep my premium show The S.P.A.A.C.E. Program!
Catch up on the latest Because Science!
- How does Black Panther’s vibranium suit work?
- What toxin is on Poison Ivy’s lips?
- Why you don’t want super strength
