Chemistry
We summarize the week's scientific breakthroughs every Thursday.
- Chemistry
Names for four new elements get seal of approval
The International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry has approved the proposed names for the four elements added to the periodic table in December 2015.
- Climate
Wanted: New ways to chill air conditioners, fridges
A new amendment to the Montreal Protocol will phase out potent greenhouse gases currently used in air conditioners and refrigerators, prompting a hunt for eco-friendly alternatives.
- Chemistry
Water softeners get friendlier to health, environment
New technology softens water without adding sodium, which ends up in drinking water and contaminates the environment.
- Chemistry
Molecules for making nanomachines snare chemistry Nobel
Nanochemists win Nobel prize for devising molecular machines
- Chemistry
Minuscule machines earn trio 2016 chemistry Nobel
The creators of mini machines including chains, axles and motors have earned the 2016 Nobel Prize in chemistry.
- Planetary Science
Rock hounds are on the hunt for new carbon minerals
The race is on to find about 140 predicted carbon-based minerals in locations around the world. Map included.
- Health & Medicine
Phil Baran finds simple recipes for complex molecules
Chemist Phil Baran draws on artistry and creativity to efficiently synthesize molecules that could improve people's lives.
- Materials Science
Qian Chen makes matter come alive
Materials scientist Qian Chen is coaxing nanomaterials to self-assemble in new and unexpected ways.
- Archaeology
Oldest indigo-dyed fabric found
South American society was first known to use complex dye process on fabrics.
- Earth
Where the young hot Earth cached its gold
A simulation of the infant Earth provides a new view of how the iron-loving precious metals ended up buried deep in the planet’s core.
- Chemistry
FDA bans chemicals in antibacterial soaps
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration ruled against 19 antibacterial soap ingredients, citing insufficient evidence of bacteria-killing and safety problems.
- Chemistry
X-rays reveal portrait hiding beneath Degas masterpiece
X-ray technique reveals an additional painting hiding behind Edgar Degas’ "Portrait of a Woman."
