Ammonium carbonate [NH4]2CO3 is the main ingredient in Victorian smelling salts. Also called baker's ammonia, sal volatile , salt of...

The German Peasants' War (1524-5) is short, bloody and violent, and changes the course of history in Europe. Up to 400,000 peasants rise...

Aristotle (384 - 322 BCE) is a Greek philosopher. His contributions span multiple disciplines such as biology, psychology, physics,...

Liver of Sulfur is a unique compound of alchemy, metallurgy and medicine. Also known as hepar sulfuris or sulfurated potash, Liver of...

Diatoms, while invisible to the naked eye, are essential to the ecosystem and human survival. These tiny microalgae prolifically generate...

Brevibacterium linens is a remarkable microorganism on a mission to spread its pungent aroma everywhere, from the unique bite of cheese...

Pyrometallurgy is the high-temperature processing of ores to extract and refine metals. It uses alchemical processes in a modern...

Pathogens of food include Bacillus cereus , Salmonella typhimurium , Aeromonas hydrophila , and Pseudomonas fragi . Each of these...

Cornstarch, also called corn flour, is a common ingredient worldwide. A fine, white powder processed from endosperms of corn kernels,...

Scheele's Green is a rich, vibrant green. Its color appeal surpasses that of the copper carbonate paints of the late 18th century and...

Copper (II) sulfate CuSO4 yields a vivid color and widespread applications. Also known as blue vitriol in alchemy and chalcanthite in...

Lye or sodium hydroxide (NaOH) is a vital part of human history. Also called caustic soda, lye is a white odorless solid. A strong...

Fungal biofilms are integral to ecosystems. Often unnoticed, these living structures exemplify microorganism cooperation in survival,...

Glycerin, also known as glycerol or glycerine, is a simple polyol compound with the chemical formula C3H8O3. This colorless, odorless,...

Iron(III) oxide or ferric oxide (Fe2O3) yields a striking red color as a pigment, and has a wide range of uses. From industrial...

Culinary oils are teeming with microbial life such as bacteria, molds, yeast and other fungi. Popular oils like olive oil, vegetable oil,...

Silverpoint is a drawing medium with distinct artistic potential. This delicate and precise medium has a rich history, unique properties,...

Drawing is a creative expression for humans since cave paintings of prehistory. In art, anything making a mark is a drawing tool....

Sanguine is a rich, reddish-brown chalk beloved by Renaissance artists such as Michelangelo. Creating flesh-like tones in the human form...

Guar gum is recognized for its unique natural properties in visual arts and crafting. From enhancing textures to creating custom paints,...