The molecules that make micelles are in your dishwashing detergent, your body wash, your shampoo, your toothpaste and even many foods. They are there to help the water interact with the dirt and oils.
Cutaway view of a Nissan Leaf electric vehicle showing part of its battery array (silver boxes).
Tennen-gas/Wikipedia
Lithium-ion battery fires are becoming increasingly common as electric vehicles spread, and are hard to extinguish. A new approach uses an electrolyte based on a commercial fire extinguisher.
Scientists have been studying the Clarkia site for nearly five decades.
Robert Patalano
While NASA rovers on the surface of Mars look for hints of life, researchers back on Earth are studying ‘echoes of life’ from ancient basins – hoping that the two sites might be similar.
Each year, hungry plant-eating animals do billions of dollars of damage to valuable plants. We need prevention methods that don’t involve killing them.
A bag full of gas used in a helium recovery system.
Bluefors Cryocooler Technology, Inc.
There is a large energy cost to breaking apart and mixing the water and oil layers. The secret to blending them is to add an extra ingredient known as a ‘surfactant’ or emulsifier, like mustard.
Roasting meat sets off a cascade of chemical reactions. With a bit of kitchen chemistry know-how, you can use these reactions to your advantage when you make gravy.
Fermented foods can be a good source of probiotics.
Yulia Naumenko/Moment via Getty Images
Probiotics are great for your gut, but which sources contain the most beneficial bacteria? Newly developed sensors are helping scientists figure it out.
Scientists still debate the origins of Earth’s life-sustaining elements.
BlackJack3D/E+ via Getty Images
Chlorine is a widely used industrial chemical that’s frequently a factor in toxic accidents and workplace injuries. A pharmaceutical expert explains why it’s so hazardous.
Gluten is in a variety of breads and baked goods − it helps them rise and gives bread its characteristic texture.
Adam Gault/OJO Images via Getty Images
There are a lot of myths about crystals − for example, that they are magical rocks with healing powers. An earth scientist explains some of their amazing true science.
Side dishes made with colorful vegetables are a holiday staple for many.
VeselovaElena/iStock via Getty Images
The turkey doesn’t have to be the star this Thanksgiving. Vegetable side dishes are packed with nutrients − depending on how you prepare them, they can help keep you energized this holiday season.
Many flame retardant additives have been banned.
Aleksandar Malivuk/Shutterstock
Some coffee lovers can’t do without their hit of caffeine. But if you prefer decaf, here’s the intriguing science of how it’s made, why it costs more – and how much caffeine makes it to your cup.