Chemistry

As global temperatures soar and climate patterns shift, the implications of high atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO2) concentrations are increasingly alarming. Beyond evident climate issues, triaging the environmental health of our planet reveals a more subtle yet critical aspect: the direct consequences of CO2 on cellular function. Recent studies underscore that CO2 interacts with biological compounds

In a significant advancement in the field of cancer research, scientists at the Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge National Laboratory have gained a deeper understanding of an enzyme known as serine hydroxymethyltransferase (SHMT). Through groundbreaking neutron experiments, they have elucidated the precise atomic-scale interactions of SHMT—an essential enzyme involved in cellular metabolism and proliferation. This

Hydrogen gas is increasingly being recognized as a keystone in the quest for a sustainable and environmentally friendly energy landscape. Not only is hydrogen the most abundant element in the universe, but its carbon-free combustion makes it an attractive candidate for various energy applications. However, its inherent challenges often stem from the fact that hydrogen

Water pollution poses a significant threat to ecosystems and human health, particularly in the context of pharmaceutical contamination. With the proliferation of prescription medications used in both human and veterinary contexts, trace amounts of these substances have made their way into wastewater and natural water bodies worldwide. Conventional water treatment processes, while effective at removing

The recent Nobel Prize in Chemistry awarded to three pioneering scientists has highlighted monumental advancements in our understanding of proteins, which are essential components of life itself. Demis Hassabis and John Jumper from Google DeepMind have revolutionized protein structure prediction through artificial intelligence, while David Baker, a prominent biochemist, has successfully designed entirely new proteins

The allure of superheroes has captivated the imaginations of children and adults alike, prompting the dream of swinging through city streets like Spider-Man, ensnaring foes with webbing formed from one’s wrists. In a remarkable confluence of creativity and science, researchers at Tufts University have turned that fantasy into reality with groundbreaking web-slinging technology. Their findings,

Covalent bonds are foundational to the structure and behavior of organic compounds, where atoms share electron pairs to achieve stability. While traditional covalent bonds, formed from paired electrons, are well understood, the concept of single-electron bonds has tantalized scientists for decades. Proposed by Nobel Prize-winning chemist Linus Pauling in 1931, the theory suggested that bonds

In a world increasingly burdened by textile waste, a groundbreaking initiative led by a dedicated research team from Cornell University seeks to address environmental concerns while promoting sustainability in the fashion industry. By developing a method to create waterproof coatings from discarded clothing, this innovative approach not only repurposes textile waste but also eliminates the

In the realm of organic chemistry, alkanes serve as foundational blocks for a variety of important compounds. Predominantly derived from fossil fuels, alkanes are central in producing key materials such as plastics, solvents, and lubricants. However, the innate stability of these compounds—attributed to their robust carbon-carbon bonds—poses a significant hurdle for chemists aiming to manipulate

In the realm of bioengineering, remarkable advancements are being made that draw inspiration from nature. A unique study led by bioengineering professor Abraham Joy highlights how the natural mechanisms of barnacles can inform new methods for managing bacterial biofilms. These findings not only pave the way for innovative medical treatments but also promise to address

Industrial processes are fundamental to modern society, providing the materials and chemicals that fuel our economies and lifestyles. However, alongside their benefits, these processes often produce toxic byproducts that pose significant risks to human health and environmental sustainability. Among these hazardous emissions are nitrogen oxides (NOx), including nitric oxide (NO) and nitrous oxide (N2O). Both

Plastic pollution has traditionally been viewed as an aquatic environmental crisis, but recent studies reveal that this pressing issue seeps into terrestrial ecosystems as well. Each year, approximately 368 million metric tons of plastic are produced globally, with an alarming 13 million metric tons permeating soil ecosystems. The focus on the ocean’s plight due to