Chemistry

Sign up for our newsletter

We summarize the week's science breakthroughs every Thursday.

  1. Chemistry

    Measuring what makes a medicine

    A new way to evaluate molecules offers a finer-grained picture of which ones could become drugs.

    By
  2. Earth

    ‘Nonstick’ pollutants may cut efficiency of vaccines in kids

    Antibodies from immunizations are halved among children with the highest exposure levels to common chemicals.

    By
  3. Humans

    Seaweed study fuels bioenergy enthusiasm

    Munched by a manipulated microbe, ocean algae readily yield ethanol.

    By
  4. Chemistry

    In a Squeeze

    Elements under pressure reveal secrets of extreme chemistry.

    By
  5. Chemistry

    Molecule ties itself in a complex knot

    Chemists synthesize a five-crossing structure centered on chloride.

    By
  6. Chemistry

    Deep-sea battery comes to light

    Microbes fuel a weak electrical current at hydrothermal vents.

    By
  7. Humans

    Saving the Last Supper

    Tourists and cosmetics seem to be threatening da Vinci’s masterpiece.

    By
  8. Chemistry

    Radiation sickness treatment shows promise

    The regimen could be used to protect large numbers of people in the aftermath of major accidents such as Chernobyl or Fukushima.

    By
  9. Chemistry

    Plastic isn’t over yet

    A tough new form of the 20th century’s signature polymer could extend its usefulness and make it more recyclable.

    By
  10. Tech

    Tiniest car gets a test drive

    Scientists build the world's tiniest electric 'roadster,' and zap it into action.

    By
  11. Humans

    Contrasting the concerns over climate and ozone loss

    On November 7, ozone and climate scientists met in Washington, D.C., to discuss whether the history of stratospheric ozone protection offered a useful case study about how to catalyze global action on carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases. The simple answer that emerged: No.

    By
  12. Chemistry

    Headache tree is a pain in the brain

    Following a gardener’s lead, researchers discover an ingredient in bay laurel that causes uncomfortable swelling of cranial blood vessels.

    By