Chemistry
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We summarize the week's science breakthroughs every Thursday.
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- Tech
Molecule gears up
Researchers have made one of the most basic components of a machine out of a snowflake-shaped molecule.
- Chemistry
Laser makes uphill battle easier
Researchers have used a femtosecond laser to etch tiny channels into metal plates, prompting liquid to flow uphill.
- Health & Medicine
More troubling news about BPA
Animal studies link bisphenol A — a building block of hard, clear plastics that taints many foods — with new adverse health effects.
By Janet Raloff - Chemistry
Protein caught in the act
Researchers have developed a new way to see where the molecules are active.
- Chemistry
Deadly mushroom toxin exposed
Researchers have isolated and identified a muscle-destroying compound in some mushrooms.
- Chemistry
Not your grandpa’s smoke signals
A fuse dotted with chemicals offers a new way to code messages.
- Chemistry
Beryllium-beryllium bond illuminated
Scientists study the partnership between two atoms of beryllium, which chemical theory says shouldn’t exist.
- Chemistry
BPA: On the way out? Sort of
Half-hearted bans won't really protect babies, much less the rest of us.
By Janet Raloff - Psychology
School-age lead exposures most harmful to IQ
New studies find lead exposure has greater potency in school-age children than in infants and toddlers, including effects on brain volume.
By Janet Raloff - Chemistry
How RNA got started
Scientists identify chemical reactions that could be responsible for the origin of life.
- Chemistry
Nonstick chemical pollutes water at notable levels
Residues of nonstick chemicals — from unknown sources — appear to be approaching concentrations associated with adverse effects in laboratory animals.
By Janet Raloff