All articles by Kit Chapman
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Article
What’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
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Feature
Crime-busting chemical analysis
From dog detectives to AI, discover the cutting-edge advances in forensic science
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Article
How does washing detergent work?
Discover the chemistry behind bright whites and clean coloured clothes, and the differences between washing powders, liquids and pods
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Article
How do brewers make alcohol-free beer taste good?
Distil the chemical processes used to keep beer’s flavour, smell, colour and stability
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Feature
How science can make burial, cremation and memorial greener
Does alkaline hydrolysis offer a more sustainable approach?
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Article
What’s in nail polish?
Uncover the polymers and pigments in liquid nail polishes, acrylics and gels
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Article
How do fireflies produce light?
Find out how fireflies and other creatures use bioluminescence
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Feature
From traditional remedies to modern medicines
Discover how chemists are developing breakthrough drugs from natural remedies
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Article
Butter and margarine: what’s the difference?
Discover the chemistry and history of these so similar, but very different solidified emulsions
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Article
Brush up on the science of mouthwash
What chemicals are in mouthwash and is the time you use it important?
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Feature
Cold case chemistry
Discover the advances in forensic science helping solve decades-old crimes
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Article
How do whiteboard markers work?
Learn about the chemistry behind whiteboards and pens – and how to clean their stains
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Feature
How chemistry keeps trains on track
Read about the science that’s been keeping trains chugging along for centuries
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Article
What are Halloween costume masks made from?
Find out about the creative chemistry behind costume masks
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Article
Why does jelly wobble?
Find out how gelatin’s bonds, structure and properties make jelly jiggle
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Opinion
Why 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
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Feature
The grand end of term quiz
Looking for something fun to wrap up the term? Challenge your 14–16 students with this chemistry-themed quiz
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Opinion
Make time for science’s horrible history
Delve into science’s horrible history with your students