Chemistry
![Illustration of glucose and water H2O molecules. Glucose, C6H12O6, also known as D-glucose, dextrose, or grape sugar) is a simple aldosic monosaccharide found in plants.](https://cdn.statically.io/img/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/fPFhyCk2rJsdxmQiyjVgZ5-320-80.jpg)
Chemistry is the study of matter and what happens when elements and compounds interact with other matter around them. It is a vast but fascinating field of science, and by bringing you the most compelling facts and findings the latest chemistry research has to offer, our expert editors and writers will trigger a chain reaction in your understanding of the central science.
From how scientists solved the mystery behind a 100-year-old chemistry experiment to the discovery of a new, extremely reactive chemical in our atmosphere, Live Science is fizzing to bring you the latest chemistry news, features and articles.
Editor's Picks
Latest about Chemistry
![A person holds up a sweater that has shrunk to be comically small](https://cdn.statically.io/img/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/NTFnHWDkSL2zmTPJQSerCX-320-80.jpg)
Why does cotton shrink?
By Sarah Wells published
The science of ruining your favorite shirt is more complicated than you might think.
![An artist's rendering of a microscopic view of the promethium element](https://cdn.statically.io/img/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/gCozwzAmp893A8FNaBAs2J-320-80.jpg)
Secrets of radioactive 'promethium' — a rare earth element with mysterious applications — uncovered after 80-year search
By Victoria Atkinson published
Scientists have revealed key properties of radioactive promethium, a rare earth element with poorly understood applications, using a groundbreaking new method.
![a diamond](https://cdn.statically.io/img/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/ePEsYyvmKY9KfnkeLePf5R-320-80.jpg)
Scientists grow diamonds from scratch in 15 minutes thanks to groundbreaking new process
By Deepa Jain published
Scientists have used a new technique to synthesize diamonds at normal, atmospheric pressure and without a starter gem, which could make the precious gemstones easier to grow in the lab.
![A photograph of a lithium ion electric car battery](https://cdn.statically.io/img/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/BrzVYYbwXwNvvKvim8gdmf-320-80.jpg)
Chinese scientists have found a way to make batteries more efficient — by using water
By Victoria Atkinson published
Chinese researchers have found a way to make aqueous batteries more energy-dense, by adding bromide to the electrolyte solution
![Make fire by friction with with flint and steel.](https://cdn.statically.io/img/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/pPkhbTqUQrsCeENoj8RN8n-320-80.jpg)
Why does striking flint against steel start a fire?
By Laurel Hamers published
What's the science behind starting a fire with flint and steel?
![Abstract glow shine stain on white background.](https://cdn.statically.io/img/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/gsQV3QXGxVoBkRuPJGtd3e-320-80.jpg)
World's thinnest gold leaf, dubbed 'goldene,' is just 1 atom thick
By Victoria Atkinson published
Goldene is the latest 2D material to be made since graphene was first created in 2004.
![Atomic structure, large collider, CERN concept.](https://cdn.statically.io/img/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/s2Q6CAE8Ho88KtzR55cdWa-320-80.jpg)
Inside the 20-year quest to unravel the bizarre realm of 'quantum superchemistry'
By Sam Lemonick published
More than two decades ago, scientists predicted that at ultra-low temperatures, many atoms could undergo 'quantum superchemistry' and chemically react as one. They've finally shown it's real.
![Mineral bismuth close-up, full size image above 4K.](https://cdn.statically.io/img/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/QNVKiagc7eneRBqZpwfNgN-320-80.jpg)
Bismuth is so strongly repelled from magnets, it levitates. How?
By Victoria Atkinson published
The element bismuth can "float" between magnets due to magnetic levitation. What's the science behind this phenomenon?
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