Chemistry

The mystery behind the true cause of Ludwig van Beethoven’s liver and kidney disease, which ultimately led to his premature death, has puzzled historians and researchers for centuries. One prevailing theory that gained traction was the suggestion that Beethoven suffered from lead poisoning due to high levels of lead exposure. This hypothesis seemed plausible given

In a groundbreaking collaboration between the University of Colorado Boulder and Princeton University, scientists have delved into the world of cancer cells using an unexpected tool borrowed from geology. This unique approach has shed light on the atomic fingerprints of cancer, revealing a distinctive array of hydrogen atoms that sets cancer cells apart from healthy

Amorphous materials play a crucial role in various fields, providing structural stability and serving as the building blocks for many everyday objects. Scientists from Tokyo Metropolitan University have delved into the realm of disordered materials to gain insights into how these materials respond to stress. By treating atoms and molecules as squishy spheres with different

In a groundbreaking study conducted at the University of Michigan, researchers have developed a catalyst material called cobalt phthalocyanine that has the potential to convert carbon dioxide, a major contributor to climate change, into renewable fuels such as methanol. This innovative approach could play a key role in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and providing a

Water disinfection is a critical process in ensuring public health and safety. Traditional methods involving chlorine have been effective but come with their own set of challenges. Researchers are now looking towards scalable electrochemical ozone production (EOP) technologies as a more sustainable alternative. By generating ozone directly in water, EOP offers similar disinfecting power to

In a fascinating exploration of the chemistry behind the Star Wars universe, Professor Alex Baker from the University of Warwick delves into the real-world reactions that may underpin some of the most iconic elements of the saga. From the freezing of Han Solo to the vibrant colors of lightsabers, Professor Baker showcases how science fiction

Terpenes, natural substances found in plants, insects, and sea sponges, have long been known for their medicinal properties. These organic compounds have shown promise in treating a range of illnesses, from cancer to epilepsy. However, the challenge has always been in synthesizing these terpenes in a way that allows for maximum control over their molecular

When it comes to alcohol consumption, people have different preferences regarding the temperature at which they enjoy their favorite beverages. Whether it’s beer, white wine, red wine, baijiu, or sake, the temperature at which these drinks are served can significantly impact the overall taste experience. A recent study published in the journal Matter delves into

A groundbreaking approach to inhibiting DNA-cleaving enzymes has been uncovered by researchers at Kobe University, shedding light on a potentially effective method for combating the growth of Streptococcus bacteria. Enzymes serve as essential tools within the body, facilitating myriad reactions. However, harmful bacteria like Streptococcus possess DNA-cleaving enzymes that play a pivotal role in their

The development of a new type of porous material with the ability to store carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases marks a significant breakthrough in environmental research. Spearheaded by a team of scientists from various prestigious institutions, including Heriot-Watt University in Edinburgh, Scotland, this innovative material has the potential to address pressing global challenges related

Ceramic materials have long been utilized in various industrial applications due to their mechanical strength, chemical inertness, and ability to withstand high temperatures. However, their inherent brittleness has limited their use in certain scenarios where plastic deformability is required. Researchers in Purdue University’s College of Engineering have made significant strides in overcoming this limitation by

Light-driven molecular motors have been in development for over two decades, originating from research conducted at the University of Groningen in the Netherlands. Even though the founder, Professor Ben Feringa, was awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 2016 for this groundbreaking work, the practical application of these motors has faced significant challenges. However, a