Chemistry
We summarize the week's scientific breakthroughs every Thursday.
- Chemistry
Multiple Motions: Applied electrons make molecules vibrate and move
A new technique enables scientists to choreograph individual molecules to vibrate, break bonds, and move on a surface in specified ways.
- Chemistry
Detecting Lead: Sensor changes color for toxic metal
A new sensor using gold nanoparticles and tailor-made DNA strands offers simple and reliable detection of lead in paint.
- Chemistry
Diamond in the rough
Researchers have found a collection of previously undiscovered diamondlike compounds in oil.
- Chemistry
Drug smugglers leave cellular tracks
Imaging reveals where some experimental nanoscale capsules ferry drugs when they enter cells.
- Chemistry
Plastic Electric
Scientists are finding new ways to improve the molecular order and electrical conductivity of a commercially important conducting plastic.
- Chemistry
Nanoscale Networks: Superlong nanotubes can form a grid
Researchers have made extraordinarily long carbon nanotubes and aligned them to create tiny transistors and sensors for detecting chemical and biological agents.
- Chemistry
HArF! Argon’s not so noble after all
Researchers have for the first time coerced argon into forming a stable and neutral compound with other elements.
- Chemistry
Ribosomes Reveal Their RNA Secrets
The first atomic-resolution map of a ribosome, a cell's protein factory, suggests that RNA catalyzes the formation of proteins.
- Chemistry
Contacts could dispense drugs
Novel contact lens materials use nanoparticles to dispense drugs.
- Chemistry
Matcha green tea packs the antioxidants
A green tea used in Japanese tea ceremonies contains much more of a beneficial antioxidant than ordinary green tea.
- Chemistry
Nuclear-waste monitoring gets close to the source
A new prototype device may make monitoring of radioactive contamination cheaper and easier.
- Chemistry
Catnip repels pest
Known to repel cockroaches and mosquitoes, catnip oil also works against termites.
