"Music's Impact on Research: Fine-Tuning Science at Work"

Many scientists listen to music while conducting experiments, analysing data and even writing manuscripts. Evaluating music’s effects on performance is complex, but scientists have identified how music affects the human nervous system, engaging every region of the brain that has been mapped. Listening to music releases various neurochemicals, including dopamine, which helps people to pay attention and motivates them to seek pleasurable activities, and opiates, which convey pleasure. However, for complex tasks that require a good deal of thought, such as brainstorming ideas or writing papers, listening to any type of music — regardless of lyrics, volume or complexity — can undermine performance.