Silica, or silicon dioxide (SiO2), occurs in the Earth’s crust, the microcosm and daily life. Silica makes ancient glass such as...

Silicon (Si) is the second most abundant element in the Earth's crust, next to oxygen. A ductile metalloid, it's integral to industry and...

Silicon (Si) is one of the most abundant elements on Earth, a ductile metal important to industry and natural processes. Silicon is used...

Amoebae or amoebas are single-celled microorganisms of phylum Amoebozoa . Testate amoebae build unique shells of silica and other organic...

Heliozoa, or sun animalcules, are remarkable protozoa with bodies of spheres and radiating arms or axopodia. Found in freshwater and...

Uric acid is formed in humans during breakdown of purines. Purines are naturally produced in the body, and found in some foods and...

Urea CO(NH2)2, also known as carbamide, is an essential organic compound and waste product in urine. Formed in the liver, urea is an...

Calcite is made up of calcium carbonate (CaCO3). With stunning crystal formations and a range of beautiful colors, calcite also has...

Calcium (Ca) is a vital element in life and health on Earth. A silvery white metal, calcium is a strong builder, from bone structure to...

Rotifers are fascinating microorganisms, crucial to aquatic ecosystems. Enthusiasts and researchers can raise rotifers at home for...

Green algae are simple life forms with amazing impact on the environments of Earth. Algae can be grown at home for microscopy, biology...

Diatomaceous earth (DE) is an amazing natural powder ground from the sedimentary stone diatomite. The stone itself is made of fossilized...

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...

Diana's Tree ( Arbor Diana or Dianae ) is one of the most intriguing creations of alchemy. Its delicate branches of crystallized silver...

Chalcopyrite (CuFeS₂) is vital to the earth's geology. A primary ore of copper, this scintillating mineral is influential to health,...

Copper (Cu) and its warm golden red hue is part of humanity. It's one of the most important metals of alchemy , aids plant health and is...

Foodborne molds can endanger health, home and family. Hidden in pantry and fridge, these hardy survivors are unnoticed and dormant until...

Aspergillus flavus is a filamentous mold or fungal organism found in soil, decaying vegetation, grains and nuts, especially peanuts and...

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