Kit Chapman
Kit is an internationally award-winning science journalist with a particular interest in science history and element discovery. He holds a PhD in the history and philosophy of science from the University of Sunderland and a master's degree in pharmacy from the University of Bradford. Kit has contributed to The Daily Telegraph, Nature, Chemist+Druggist and New Scientist among others.
Kit’s first popular science book, Superheavy, was shortlisted for the AAAS/Subaru SB&F prize for young adults and his second, Racing Green, was published in 2022. He was comment editor at Chemistry World.Â
Contact info
- Website:
- https://kitchapman.co.uk/
ArticleWhat’s the history and science of tea?
Look into the chemistry in your cup of tea, the global origins of its leaves and why you should add salt
FeatureCrime-busting chemical analysis
From dog detectives to AI, discover the cutting-edge advances in forensic science
ArticleHow does washing detergent work?
Discover the chemistry behind bright whites and clean coloured clothes, and the differences between washing powders, liquids and pods
ArticleHow do brewers make alcohol-free beer taste good?
Distil the chemical processes used to keep beer’s flavour, smell, colour and stability
FeatureHow science can make burial, cremation and memorial greener
Does alkaline hydrolysis offer a more sustainable approach?
ArticleWhat’s in nail polish?
Uncover the polymers and pigments in liquid nail polishes, acrylics and gels
ArticleHow do fireflies produce light?
Find out how fireflies and other creatures use bioluminescence
FeatureFrom traditional remedies to modern medicines
Discover how chemists are developing breakthrough drugs from natural remedies
ArticleButter and margarine: what’s the difference?
Discover the chemistry and history of these so similar, but very different solidified emulsions
ArticleBrush up on the science of mouthwash
What chemicals are in mouthwash and is the time you use it important?
FeatureCold case chemistry
Discover the advances in forensic science helping solve decades-old crimes
ArticleHow do whiteboard markers work?
Learn about the chemistry behind whiteboards and pens – and how to clean their stains
FeatureHow chemistry keeps trains on track
Read about the science that’s been keeping trains chugging along for centuries
ArticleWhat are Halloween costume masks made from?
Find out about the creative chemistry behind costume masks
ArticleWhy does jelly wobble?
Find out how gelatin’s bonds, structure and properties make jelly jiggle
OpinionWhy it’s time to abandon the textbook
Biases, dated content and student disinterest mean it’s time to find course materials online, argues Kit Chapman
FeatureThe grand end of term quiz
Looking for something fun to wrap up the term? Challenge your 14–16 students with this chemistry-themed quiz
OpinionMake time for science’s horrible history
Delve into science’s horrible history with your students