2013-10-02
Explanation
This comic explores how different scientific disciplines approach the topic of sex, playing on stereotypes about each field. The header establishes the premise with a play on the idea that different types of scientists study sex differently. A biologist explains that every mammal sex position has been used since the Mesozoic Era, then says "Let me introduce you to the Triassic" -- implying biologists would use their knowledge of evolutionary history to suggest exotic ancient mating positions.
Next, a chemist uses the pickup line "Baby is it cold in here? Because the odds of bonding just went up," referencing the real chemistry principle that molecular attraction and bonding are affected by temperature -- lower temperatures can favor certain types of molecular bonding. Finally, the physicist'''s approach to sex is described as "the principle of least action," which is a fundamental concept in physics (the principle that physical systems follow the path that minimizes the action integral). The joke is that physicists are stereotypically lazy or minimalist, and "least action" becomes a double entendre for putting in minimal effort.
The votey panel shows what appears to be a depiction of an O2 molecule (two oxygen atoms bonded together), labeled "Yes, that'''s O2," serving as a visual pun on the chemistry section -- the molecule drawing resembles a suggestive shape, playing on the comic'''s theme of scientists seeing sex in everything.