Something Weird Happens When You Simulate Lifeless Molecules

This Veritasium video kicks off with a quirky question—why does poop smell so bad?—and uses that as a springboard to explore the chemical origins of life. Through magnetic Snatoms kits and computer simulations, Derek Muller walks you through gene mutations, the basics of natural selection, and how random molecular “mistakes” can lead to incredible complexity.

Along the way you’ll meet big ideas like kin selection and Richard Dawkins’ “selfish gene,” all backed by experts from Jack Szostak to John Sutherland. By the end, you’ll see evolution as one giant, beautiful simulation that connects stinky poop to penguin chicks and beyond.

Watch on YouTube