April 2021

Free Articles

fashion designers at table

FEATURE

How to Make Fashion Sustainable

By Max G. Levy

The clothing industry has been called out for years for its unsustainable practices. To shrink the environmental footprint of fashion, scientists are tackling the complex challenge of clothes-to-clothes recycling.


OPEN FOR DISCUSSION

The Case for Extraterrestrial Teenagers

By Michael Tinnesand

If movies and television shows are to be believed, you would think extraterrestrial aliens and encounters with them would be common. Starting with the 1902 film “A Trip to the Moon” through today’s “The Mandalorian,” we have long enjoyed imagining creatures from other planets.


CHEMISTRY IN PERSON

Channeling a Passion for Chemistry to Help Others

By Max G. Levy

Now a chemist who helps analyze promising new cancer drugs, Brandon Presley channels his passion for understanding how the world works, using chemistry to improve people’s lives.

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guy holding circle paint

Beat the Heat...With Paint!

By XiaoZhi Lim

When it comes to climate change, sophisticated technologies must be part of the solution. But scientists also look to more practical strategies. Find out how one researcher is designing a type of paint to help cities keep cool in the summertime.

Teacher's Guide (DOC)


three ice cream cones

What is Ice Cream?

By Emma Hiolski

To many, ice cream is the quintessential dessert and now comes in as many flavors as you can think of. Explore the chemistry behind ice cream’s deliciousness, and learn how food scientists are trying to make it even better.

Teacher's Guide (DOC)


hand holding balloons

Are We Running Out of Helium?

By Brian Rohrig

From party balloons to medical imaging, helium serves a wide range of purposes in our lives. The recent concern over its supply, however, presents a good opportunity to take a closer look at this element and what makes it so versatile.

Teacher's Guide (DOC)    Helium Puzzle: Light Elements (PDF)

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