Unit C: Chemical Changes of Organic Compounds

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.

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

Learn about the wide variety of fuels used in vehicles.

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

Biofuels like ethanol might help fight climate change. But they can contribute to food insecurity and greenhouse gases in ways that might surprise you.

The fracking process gets natural gases out of rocks. This process can have effects on freshwater, water quality and even earthquakes!

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.

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

Learn about the biochemistry of cooking meringue.

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

Ethanol is a biofuel that can power a car. Learn about the enzymes, catalysts and processes like fermentation involved in ethanol production.

Discover how to use some common kitchen ingredients to make glue.