Compound Interest | Chemistry infographics
LightNews LightNews
banner
compoundchem.com
Compound Interest | Chemistry infographics
@compoundchem.com
8.2K followers 180 following 900 posts
🧪 Infographics exploring everyday chemistry
📅 #PeriodicGraphics in @cenmag.bsky.social
🥇 ACS 2025 Interpreting Chemistry for the Public award
🏆 ABSW 2018 Science Blog Award
🖊️ Posts by @andy.compoundchem.com
🌐 Website: compoundchem.com
Posts Replies Media Videos
compoundchem.com
Snowdrop season is coming in the Northern Hemisphere!

What links these winter flowers with Alzheimer's treatment and nerve agents? Find out in this infographic! www.compoundchem.com/2018/02/08/s...

#ChemSky 🧪
Infographic on snowdrops, Alzheimer's and chemical warfare. Snowdrops contain poisonous alkaloids which, if they are eaten, can cause vomiting and diarrhoea. Falling levels of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine are associated with Alzheimer's disease. Galantamine stops an enzyme that breaks acetylcholine down. Organophosphate nerve agents target an enzyme that breaks down acetylcholine; galantamine can bind reversible to this enzyme, blocking the nerve agents.
January 14, 2026 at 8:05 AM
compoundchem.com
It seems that the evidence for the presence of high levels of microplastics in the human body may have been overstated: www.theguardian.com/environment/...
‘A bombshell’: doubt cast on discovery of microplastics throughout human body
Exclusive: Some scientists say many detections are most likely error, with one high-profile study called a ‘joke’
www.theguardian.com
January 13, 2026 at 7:08 PM
compoundchem.com
Rubber ducks – made from rubber, right? Wrong!

On #NationalRubberDuckyDay, this infographic unmasks the rubber duck's true chemical identity: wp.me/p4aPLT-8Uo

#ChemSky 🧪
This infographic explains the chemistry of rubber ducks. It details how they transitioned from vulcanised rubber (hardened with sulfur cross-links) to polyvinyl chloride (PVC) in the 1940s. It illustrates how plasticisers are added to PVC to increase the space between polymer chains, making the material flexible. It notes that toxic phthalates (like DEHP) are now being replaced by safer alternatives like DINCH and adipates due to health concerns.
January 13, 2026 at 1:05 PM
Reposted by Compound Interest | Chemistry infographics
andy.compoundchem.com
A colleague just incredulously emailed me this article and I, completely unsurprised, noted that while teaching I had at least two students try to eat copper sulfate crystals. Something about those blue crystals is clearly too alluring!

www.tes.com/magazine/new... #ChatChemistry
Warning over students ingesting copper sulphate
DfE issues health alert after a helpline supporting safe science practical work warns of students ‘deliberately’ consuming the chemical compound
www.tes.com
January 13, 2026 at 9:48 AM
compoundchem.com
Why does scum sometimes form on the surface of a cup of tea, and how does tea's stimulant effect differ from that of coffee? On #NationalHotTeaDay here are the chemical explanations! www.compoundchem.com/2023/04/21/tea

#ChemSky 🧪
An infographic titled "Tea polyphenols, stimulants, and tea scum". It explains that tea contains 180–240 mg of polyphenols, like theaflavins, which provide its red-orange color. It features molecular structures for stimulants: theobromine, theophylline, and caffeine (35 mg per 200 ml). It notes L-theanine may balance caffeine's effects. A section on "tea scum" shows it is formed by calcium and bicarbonate ions in hard water.
January 12, 2026 at 12:35 PM
Reposted by Compound Interest | Chemistry infographics
obialik.bsky.social
Today in #SciFiScience - regrowing teeth in adults. Turns out there is a transcription factor in mammals that inhibits tooth growth. If it is inhibited, it that make new teeth grow. (and that's now in clinical trials) 🧪

www.nature.com/articles/s41...
The sources of adult dental stem cells used for tooth regeneration from: https://link.springer.com/chapter/10.1007/978-3-030-59809-9_5
January 12, 2026 at 4:50 AM
compoundchem.com
Today is #NationalMilkDay 🥛 Why is milk white, and what makes it go sour over time? This graphic explains: www.compoundchem.com/2018/06/02/milk

#ChemSky 🧪
An infographic titled "The Chemistry of Cow’s Milk". It details milk’s composition: 87.5% water, 3.9% fat, 3.4% proteins, and 5.2% lactose/minerals. It explains milk is white because casein protein micelles scatter light. Diagrams show the chemical structure of triglycerides (fats like palmitic and oleic acid) and the breakdown of lactose into galactose and glucose via digestion, or into lactic acid via fermentation, which causes souring.
January 11, 2026 at 10:06 AM
compoundchem.com
January is #InternationalBloodDonorMonth. What makes blood types different and which are compatible with which? Learn more with this graphic: www.compoundchem.com/2018/01/12/b...
An infographic titled Blood Type Compatibilities explains how antigens and antibodies determine donor-recipient matches. Eight columns represent blood types (O-, O+, A-, A+, B-, B+, AB-, AB+). Each shows its specific antigens and antibodies, followed by lists of compatible donors and recipients. For example, O- is the universal donor, able to give to all types but only receive from O-. Conversely, AB+ is the universal recipient, able to receive from all types but only donate to AB+.
January 10, 2026 at 1:15 PM
compoundchem.com
In winter weather we all know salt makes icy roads less slippery, but how does that work? This edition of #PeriodicGraphics in @cenmag.bsky.social explains and looks at the range of different deicers used: cen.acs.org/articles/93/...

#Chemsky 🧪
Infographic titled “Deicers & Antifreeze” explains how chemicals lower water’s freezing point via eutectic points. A vertical thermometer shows freezing points from 0 to −60 °C. Listed chemicals with formulas, concentrations, and minimum temperatures include urea (−11.9 °C), sodium chloride (−21 °C), calcium magnesium acetate (−27.5 °C), magnesium chloride (−33 °C), glycerol (−37.8 °C), ethylene glycol (−50 °C), calcium chloride (−51 °C), potassium acetate (−60 °C), and propylene glycol (−60 °C). Side panels describe road deicers, airplane deicers, and antifreeze uses, noting corrosion and toxicity concerns.
January 9, 2026 at 3:43 PM
compoundchem.com
Getting snow where you are? Did you know that there are 121 categories of snowflake? ❄️

This graphic is an old favourite which gives an overview of the 39 intermediate categories: www.compoundchem.com/2014/12/10/s... 🧪
Infographic titled “Snowflakes: Classifications & Shapes” showing how snowflakes are categorized by crystal form. Sections illustrate column crystals, plane crystals, combinations of column and plane crystals, rimed snow crystals, aggregation, germs of ice crystals, irregular particles, and other solid precipitation. Each category uses simple blue icons with codes (e.g., C1, P3). A key explains three classification levels: 8 general, 39 intermediate, and 121 elementary categories, highlighting the wide variety of snowflake shapes found in nature.
January 8, 2026 at 5:15 PM
compoundchem.com
Champagne and mentos might hit school science club budgets a little harder
waynestatechem.bsky.social @wsuchemistry.bsky.social @waynestatechem.bsky.social · 8d
The Mentos challenge just got serious 🧐 See what happens when chem prof Tom Kuntzleman dds Mentos to a bottle of champagne in comparison to a different carbonated beverage. Cheers! #wsuchemistry #ChemSky #mentoschallenge #ChemEd
January 8, 2026 at 8:52 AM
compoundchem.com
I learned about α-Gal-induced meat allergies when I wrote about them in my food chemistry book back in 2015 - interesting to see that researchers are now trying to use the immune response α-Gal triggers to improve vaccines, boost healing and even treat cancers #ChemSky
α-Gal causes tick-related meat allergies—it could also be therapeutic
As people with α-gal syndrome seek to boost awareness, researchers are looking to harness the molecule for new therapies
cen.acs.org
January 7, 2026 at 4:10 PM
compoundchem.com
In the UK, 2026 is the #NationalYearOfReading. Which do you prefer: the smell of new books or of old books? 📚

Here's the chemistry behind both! www.compoundchem.com/2014/06/01/n...

#ChemSky 🧪
Infographic on the aroma of books. The smell of old books is produced by the gradual breakdown of cellulose and lignin in paper. Type of paper and age of the book affect the compounds produced, which include furfural, vanillin and benzaldehyde. The aroma of new books is equally variable, the compounds causing it coming from adhesives, inks, and chemicals used for paper treatment. Many of these chemicals are odorless themselves, but can react and contribute to the release of aroma chemicals.
January 7, 2026 at 3:15 PM
compoundchem.com
A prison closed after high levels of radon gas were detected is in the UK news today: www.theguardian.com/society/2026...

Where does radon come from and why is it dangerous? This edition of #PeriodicGraphics in @cenmag.bsky.social explains: cen.acs.org/environment/...

#ChemSky 🧪
Infographic titled “What Are the Risks of Radon?” explaining sources, health effects, and detection of radon gas. It shows radon forming from uranium decay in soil and entering homes, especially basements. Health impacts include lung cancer risk, with statistics such as 1 in 15 U.S. homes having high radon and about 21,000 U.S. lung cancer deaths per year. Diagrams explain radioactive decay chains, indoor radon levels, and common detection methods including track detectors, activated carbon, electret chambers, and continuous monitors.
January 7, 2026 at 10:25 AM
compoundchem.com
Today is Three Kings Day! Here's a look at why gold is gold, what gives frankincense its distinctive smell, and what on earth myrrh is: www.compoundchem.com/2014/12/23/g...

#ChemSky 🧪
Infographic titled “Gold, Frankincense & Myrrh” examining the chemistry and uses of the three biblical gifts. Top images show gold bars, frankincense resin, and myrrh resin. The Gold section explains metallic bonding, electron configuration, and why gold appears yellow. The Frankincense section shows chemical structures of aroma compounds used in incense and perfumes, with notes on mood effects. The Myrrh section shows sesquiterpene structures, describing its use in incense, fragrance, and traditional medicine with possible analgesic properties.
January 6, 2026 at 11:15 AM
Reposted by Compound Interest | Chemistry infographics
eddierobson.bsky.social
If this was a twist in a murder mystery you'd be like "oh fuck off that's not a thing"
January 5, 2026 at 11:07 AM
compoundchem.com
Some of my graphics spotted whilst out and about for the day job. And Thierry Henry. No, I don’t know why either.
Photo of the wall of a school classroom, on which can be seen a number of Compound Interest infographics. A cardboard cutout of a suited Thierry Henry is also visible in the corner of the room.
January 5, 2026 at 2:10 PM
Reposted by Compound Interest | Chemistry infographics
cenmag.bsky.social
Chloride salts are used to make roadways safe in the wintertime, despite being very environmentally unfriendly and corrosive. Research is ongoing to find new ways to limit the corrosive properties of salts and minimize the amount needed to break the ice. cen.acs.org/environment/... #chemsky 🧪
What is road salt and how does it impact the environment?
The ice-melting substance is ubiquitous in many snowy areas. Smart salting is key to minimize its environmental impact
cen.acs.org
January 5, 2026 at 1:16 PM
compoundchem.com
Icy weather is hitting here this week ❄️ If you've ever wondered why snowflakes are six-sided, why ice floats on water, and what ice cores can tell us about the past climate, then check out this edition of #PeriodicGraphics in @cenmag.bsky.social: cen.acs.org/environment/...

#ChemSky 🧪
Infographic titled “The Chemistry of Snow and Ice” explaining why snowflakes have six sides, why ice floats, and how ice affects atmospheric chemistry. Sections show snowflake formation via hydrogen bonding creating hexagonal crystals; types of snowflakes varying with temperature and humidity; a graph comparing ice and water density showing ice is less dense; Antarctic icy chemistry illustrating ozone-depleting reactions on ice crystals; and ice cores revealing past climate data from oxygen isotopes and carbon dioxide.
January 5, 2026 at 12:35 PM
compoundchem.com
If you’re doing #Veganuary this month, or even just aiming to eat less meat, you might try plant-based alternatives. How are these made and how does chemistry improve their appearance and flavour?

This edition of #PeriodicGraphics in @cenmag.bsky.social has the answers: cen.acs.org/food/food-sc...
Infographic "The Chemistry of Plant-Based Meat" explaining how alternatives replicate meat. Sources include legumes, grains, and fungi. Structure is achieved via high-moisture extrusion to create fibrous textures. Color comes from beet and purple carrot pigments or genetically engineered heme. Flavor is developed through the Maillard reaction (sugars + amino acids). Texture uses liquid plant oils and solid tropical fats to mimic animal fat mouthfeel and consistency.
January 4, 2026 at 3:58 PM
compoundchem.com
Doing #DryJanuary? If you're reaching for a beer of the alcohol-free variety, here's a look at how it's made 🍺 www.compoundchem.com/2022/08/24/a...

#ChemSky 🧪
Infographic on how alcohol-free beer is made. Definitions of alcohol-free beer vary in different countries, with some allowing small amounts of alcohol. Alcohol-free beers can be produced by avoiding fermentation entirely, but this can impact flavour. More common methods include dilution (where a concentrated beer is produced then diluted), dealcoholisation (where alcohol is removed via distillation or membrane filtration) or limiting the production of alcohol (by using specialised yeast or low fermenting temperatures).
January 3, 2026 at 2:31 PM
compoundchem.com
I’m a bit late with the reflective posting, but 2025 was a pretty good year for me and Ci.

Firstly, I was honoured to receive the @acs.org Grady-Stack award for communicating chemistry back in March. Of course, I made an infographic about it!
Photo of me receiving the 2025 American Chemical Society Grady-Stack award for communicating chemistry to the public. Infographic on the Grady-Stack medal. The 232g medal is 7.5cm wide and made of 10-carat gold, consisting of 41.7% gold (97g) and 58.3% (135g) copper, silver, and zinc. It features portraits of James T. Grady, editor from 1923–1948, and his successor James H. Stack. Originally the James T. Grady Medal, Stack’s name was added in 1984 to recognize their combined impact on science communication.
January 2, 2026 at 8:14 AM
compoundchem.com
Battling a post-NYE hangover? Here’s what we know about the biochemistry of alcohol’s effects on the body: www.compoundchem.com/2016/01/01/h...

#ChemSky 🧪
Infographic on the chemistry of a hangover. The graphic shows the breakdown of ethanol to ethanal and then ethanoate. It then looks at the evidence for four potential contributors to hangovers: dehydration, acetaldehyde, congeners and the immune system.
January 1, 2026 at 1:30 PM
Reposted by Compound Interest | Chemistry infographics
compoundchem.com
Planning on seeing in 2026 in with Champagne? Here's the science behind the celebratory bubbles! www.compoundchem.com/2014/12/30/c...

#ChemSky 🧪
Infographic titled “The Chemistry of Champagne” showing facts about carbonation and aroma compounds. It notes that a 0.75 L bottle releases about 5 L of CO₂, a glass contains around 20 million bubbles, bottle pressure is 5–6 atmospheres, and 20% of CO₂ escapes via bubbles. A central champagne flute is surrounded by chemical structures of aroma-contributing compounds: γ-decalactone, methyl dihydrojasmonate, dodecanoic acid, decanoic acid, 7,8-dihydrovomifoliol, ethyl myristate, palmitic acid, and palmitoleic acid.
December 31, 2025 at 10:15 AM
Reposted by Compound Interest | Chemistry infographics
rcsbpdb.bsky.social
Here's a toast to alcohol dehydrogenase, our primary defense against alcohol, a toxic molecule that compromises the function of our nervous system #HappyNewYear
PDB101: Molecule of the Month: Alcohol Dehydrogenase
Alcohol dehydrogenase detoxifies the ethanol we drink
pdb101.rcsb.org
December 31, 2025 at 5:22 PM