One of the best known colors is Prussian Blue. Perhaps not by name. But it is the blue of blueprints and is long-known. What is its chemistry and why is it so confusing? Let’s find out.
Microplastic Pollution: Origins and Chemistry of Tiny Plastic Trash
Microplastics are a type of pollution that is spreading across the globe. Very small particles of plastic come from many different sources, and end up in our water supply. What is microplastic?
The Diamondoids: Adamantane, Diamantane and Triamantane – Practical Applications?
Allotropic carbon forms have become a super-hot research item! One spectacular form is the diamondoid. Its importance ranges from the world of astronomy to the quantum world.
Saccharides: Difference Between Starches, Sugars and Cellulose
Sometimes small things produce big differences. Saccharides include starches, sugars and cellulose. What difference is there in these materials made of such similar starting materials?
Scientific Research: Reproducibility and Bias in Chemistry
All scientists are subject to bias – it happens in the best and worst of situations. One example of possible bias in the scientific community was the use of Laetrile as a harmless Anti-Cancer agent.
Hydrochlorothiazide or HCTZ: Its History, Synthesis, and Physiological Activity with Emphasis on Chemistry
Many think that “New is better.” In technology, such thinking often proves true. But is it always the case? No. Consider pharmacology. New drugs promise improved health, a better quality of life. Yet negative side effects, some not having had sufficient time to surface, may discourage a medication’s use, perhaps even warranting its removal from […]
Problems in (Chemical) Experimentation: What are Non-Reproducibility and Reproducibility?
Reproducibility is a key to successful experimentation. Presently, there is a crisis in chemical and other scientific research: lack of reproducible results
Mosquitoes, Stagnant Water, and Leaf Infusions
Mosquitoes lay their eggs in water. But to them, not all water was created the same. They have preferences. Do these preferences involve leaf infusions?
The Intricate Dance of Chemical Reactions: Chemical Kinetics to Chemical Dynamics
Chemical reactions are characterized by change. Presently, techniques focus on reaction dynamics: bonding breaking and forming via Transition States
Chemistry of the Giant Hogweed: A Macabre Cloud with a Silver Lining?
The Giant Hogweed is a hot topic in the U.S., U.K. and Europe, as well it should be! The chemistry of this plant produces horrific blisters that can kill.