Alkaloids are found in some of the most addictive substances that humans consume. What are alkaloids, and how do they cause addiction?

Learn about the potential of algae as a material for making biofuel.

Learn the organic chemistry behind this very useful plastic. Why is recycling polystyrene hard? Why does polystyrene often end up as solid waste?

Why does drinking too much alcohol make people feel so bad? Read about four theories.

Learn about the organic compounds that make up lipstick as well as about some of the chemistry that goes into this popular cosmetic.

Every time you wash your hands with soap, there are complex chemical reactions taking place.

Has your fresh juicy apple turned an unsightly brown? Learn about the redox reaction behind the transformation.

Learn how e-cigarettes and other vaping products work, and why scientists and health professionals have concerns about their safety.

When deceased whales wash up on shore, people fear they might explode. Gas laws, decomposition reactions and organic chemistry can help us understand this fear.

How do plants use scents? Learn how some plants use chemical signals to send messages to animals or other plants.

Many holidays mean delicious food - and smells! This fun article looks at the chemistry behind the common aromas of Christmas.