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Compound Interest | Chemistry infographics
@compoundchem.com
8.2K followers 180 following 900 posts
🧪 Infographics exploring everyday chemistry
📅 #PeriodicGraphics in @cenmag.bsky.social
🥇 ACS 2025 Interpreting Chemistry for the Public award
🏆 ABSW 2018 Science Blog Award
🖊️ Posts by @andy.compoundchem.com
🌐 Website: compoundchem.com
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compoundchem.com
Why does scum sometimes form on the surface of a cup of tea, and how does tea's stimulant effect differ from that of coffee? On #NationalHotTeaDay here are the chemical explanations! www.compoundchem.com/2023/04/21/tea

#ChemSky 🧪
An infographic titled "Tea polyphenols, stimulants, and tea scum". It explains that tea contains 180–240 mg of polyphenols, like theaflavins, which provide its red-orange color. It features molecular structures for stimulants: theobromine, theophylline, and caffeine (35 mg per 200 ml). It notes L-theanine may balance caffeine's effects. A section on "tea scum" shows it is formed by calcium and bicarbonate ions in hard water.
January 12, 2026 at 12:35 PM
compoundchem.com
Today is #NationalMilkDay 🥛 Why is milk white, and what makes it go sour over time? This graphic explains: www.compoundchem.com/2018/06/02/milk

#ChemSky 🧪
An infographic titled "The Chemistry of Cow’s Milk". It details milk’s composition: 87.5% water, 3.9% fat, 3.4% proteins, and 5.2% lactose/minerals. It explains milk is white because casein protein micelles scatter light. Diagrams show the chemical structure of triglycerides (fats like palmitic and oleic acid) and the breakdown of lactose into galactose and glucose via digestion, or into lactic acid via fermentation, which causes souring.
January 11, 2026 at 10:06 AM
compoundchem.com
January is #InternationalBloodDonorMonth. What makes blood types different and which are compatible with which? Learn more with this graphic: www.compoundchem.com/2018/01/12/b...
An infographic titled Blood Type Compatibilities explains how antigens and antibodies determine donor-recipient matches. Eight columns represent blood types (O-, O+, A-, A+, B-, B+, AB-, AB+). Each shows its specific antigens and antibodies, followed by lists of compatible donors and recipients. For example, O- is the universal donor, able to give to all types but only receive from O-. Conversely, AB+ is the universal recipient, able to receive from all types but only donate to AB+.
January 10, 2026 at 1:15 PM
compoundchem.com
In winter weather we all know salt makes icy roads less slippery, but how does that work? This edition of #PeriodicGraphics in @cenmag.bsky.social explains and looks at the range of different deicers used: cen.acs.org/articles/93/...

#Chemsky 🧪
Infographic titled “Deicers & Antifreeze” explains how chemicals lower water’s freezing point via eutectic points. A vertical thermometer shows freezing points from 0 to −60 °C. Listed chemicals with formulas, concentrations, and minimum temperatures include urea (−11.9 °C), sodium chloride (−21 °C), calcium magnesium acetate (−27.5 °C), magnesium chloride (−33 °C), glycerol (−37.8 °C), ethylene glycol (−50 °C), calcium chloride (−51 °C), potassium acetate (−60 °C), and propylene glycol (−60 °C). Side panels describe road deicers, airplane deicers, and antifreeze uses, noting corrosion and toxicity concerns.
January 9, 2026 at 3:43 PM
compoundchem.com
Getting snow where you are? Did you know that there are 121 categories of snowflake? ❄️

This graphic is an old favourite which gives an overview of the 39 intermediate categories: www.compoundchem.com/2014/12/10/s... 🧪
Infographic titled “Snowflakes: Classifications & Shapes” showing how snowflakes are categorized by crystal form. Sections illustrate column crystals, plane crystals, combinations of column and plane crystals, rimed snow crystals, aggregation, germs of ice crystals, irregular particles, and other solid precipitation. Each category uses simple blue icons with codes (e.g., C1, P3). A key explains three classification levels: 8 general, 39 intermediate, and 121 elementary categories, highlighting the wide variety of snowflake shapes found in nature.
January 8, 2026 at 5:15 PM
compoundchem.com
In the UK, 2026 is the #NationalYearOfReading. Which do you prefer: the smell of new books or of old books? 📚

Here's the chemistry behind both! www.compoundchem.com/2014/06/01/n...

#ChemSky 🧪
Infographic on the aroma of books. The smell of old books is produced by the gradual breakdown of cellulose and lignin in paper. Type of paper and age of the book affect the compounds produced, which include furfural, vanillin and benzaldehyde. The aroma of new books is equally variable, the compounds causing it coming from adhesives, inks, and chemicals used for paper treatment. Many of these chemicals are odorless themselves, but can react and contribute to the release of aroma chemicals.
January 7, 2026 at 3:15 PM
compoundchem.com
A prison closed after high levels of radon gas were detected is in the UK news today: www.theguardian.com/society/2026...

Where does radon come from and why is it dangerous? This edition of #PeriodicGraphics in @cenmag.bsky.social explains: cen.acs.org/environment/...

#ChemSky 🧪
Infographic titled “What Are the Risks of Radon?” explaining sources, health effects, and detection of radon gas. It shows radon forming from uranium decay in soil and entering homes, especially basements. Health impacts include lung cancer risk, with statistics such as 1 in 15 U.S. homes having high radon and about 21,000 U.S. lung cancer deaths per year. Diagrams explain radioactive decay chains, indoor radon levels, and common detection methods including track detectors, activated carbon, electret chambers, and continuous monitors.
January 7, 2026 at 10:25 AM
compoundchem.com
Today is Three Kings Day! Here's a look at why gold is gold, what gives frankincense its distinctive smell, and what on earth myrrh is: www.compoundchem.com/2014/12/23/g...

#ChemSky 🧪
Infographic titled “Gold, Frankincense & Myrrh” examining the chemistry and uses of the three biblical gifts. Top images show gold bars, frankincense resin, and myrrh resin. The Gold section explains metallic bonding, electron configuration, and why gold appears yellow. The Frankincense section shows chemical structures of aroma compounds used in incense and perfumes, with notes on mood effects. The Myrrh section shows sesquiterpene structures, describing its use in incense, fragrance, and traditional medicine with possible analgesic properties.
January 6, 2026 at 11:15 AM
compoundchem.com
Some of my graphics spotted whilst out and about for the day job. And Thierry Henry. No, I don’t know why either.
Photo of the wall of a school classroom, on which can be seen a number of Compound Interest infographics. A cardboard cutout of a suited Thierry Henry is also visible in the corner of the room.
January 5, 2026 at 2:10 PM
compoundchem.com
Icy weather is hitting here this week ❄️ If you've ever wondered why snowflakes are six-sided, why ice floats on water, and what ice cores can tell us about the past climate, then check out this edition of #PeriodicGraphics in @cenmag.bsky.social: cen.acs.org/environment/...

#ChemSky 🧪
Infographic titled “The Chemistry of Snow and Ice” explaining why snowflakes have six sides, why ice floats, and how ice affects atmospheric chemistry. Sections show snowflake formation via hydrogen bonding creating hexagonal crystals; types of snowflakes varying with temperature and humidity; a graph comparing ice and water density showing ice is less dense; Antarctic icy chemistry illustrating ozone-depleting reactions on ice crystals; and ice cores revealing past climate data from oxygen isotopes and carbon dioxide.
January 5, 2026 at 12:35 PM
compoundchem.com
If you’re doing #Veganuary this month, or even just aiming to eat less meat, you might try plant-based alternatives. How are these made and how does chemistry improve their appearance and flavour?

This edition of #PeriodicGraphics in @cenmag.bsky.social has the answers: cen.acs.org/food/food-sc...
Infographic "The Chemistry of Plant-Based Meat" explaining how alternatives replicate meat. Sources include legumes, grains, and fungi. Structure is achieved via high-moisture extrusion to create fibrous textures. Color comes from beet and purple carrot pigments or genetically engineered heme. Flavor is developed through the Maillard reaction (sugars + amino acids). Texture uses liquid plant oils and solid tropical fats to mimic animal fat mouthfeel and consistency.
January 4, 2026 at 3:58 PM
compoundchem.com
Doing #DryJanuary? If you're reaching for a beer of the alcohol-free variety, here's a look at how it's made 🍺 www.compoundchem.com/2022/08/24/a...

#ChemSky 🧪
Infographic on how alcohol-free beer is made. Definitions of alcohol-free beer vary in different countries, with some allowing small amounts of alcohol. Alcohol-free beers can be produced by avoiding fermentation entirely, but this can impact flavour. More common methods include dilution (where a concentrated beer is produced then diluted), dealcoholisation (where alcohol is removed via distillation or membrane filtration) or limiting the production of alcohol (by using specialised yeast or low fermenting temperatures).
January 3, 2026 at 2:31 PM
compoundchem.com
I’m a bit late with the reflective posting, but 2025 was a pretty good year for me and Ci.

Firstly, I was honoured to receive the @acs.org Grady-Stack award for communicating chemistry back in March. Of course, I made an infographic about it!
Photo of me receiving the 2025 American Chemical Society Grady-Stack award for communicating chemistry to the public. Infographic on the Grady-Stack medal. The 232g medal is 7.5cm wide and made of 10-carat gold, consisting of 41.7% gold (97g) and 58.3% (135g) copper, silver, and zinc. It features portraits of James T. Grady, editor from 1923–1948, and his successor James H. Stack. Originally the James T. Grady Medal, Stack’s name was added in 1984 to recognize their combined impact on science communication.
January 2, 2026 at 8:14 AM
compoundchem.com
Battling a post-NYE hangover? Here’s what we know about the biochemistry of alcohol’s effects on the body: www.compoundchem.com/2016/01/01/h...

#ChemSky 🧪
Infographic on the chemistry of a hangover. The graphic shows the breakdown of ethanol to ethanal and then ethanoate. It then looks at the evidence for four potential contributors to hangovers: dehydration, acetaldehyde, congeners and the immune system.
January 1, 2026 at 1:30 PM
compoundchem.com
Planning on seeing in 2026 in with Champagne? Here's the science behind the celebratory bubbles! www.compoundchem.com/2014/12/30/c...

#ChemSky 🧪
Infographic titled “The Chemistry of Champagne” showing facts about carbonation and aroma compounds. It notes that a 0.75 L bottle releases about 5 L of CO₂, a glass contains around 20 million bubbles, bottle pressure is 5–6 atmospheres, and 20% of CO₂ escapes via bubbles. A central champagne flute is surrounded by chemical structures of aroma-contributing compounds: γ-decalactone, methyl dihydrojasmonate, dodecanoic acid, decanoic acid, 7,8-dihydrovomifoliol, ethyl myristate, palmitic acid, and palmitoleic acid.
December 31, 2025 at 10:15 AM
compoundchem.com
I had a blast (sorry) creating this infographic on the furnaces that forge iron and steel, based on news about the UK steel industry's struggles earlier this year.

Who's getting flashbacks to drawing blast furnace diagrams in school science lessons?

www.compoundchem.com/2025/04/24/b...

#ChemSky 🧪
Infographic showing how iron is produced in a blast furnace. A labelled diagram of a blast furnace is shown along with detail of the reactions taking place inside. Coal reacts with oxygen to produce carbon monoxide which reduces iron oxide, producing molten iron. Limestone removes silica impurities. Further processing removes other impurities. Detail on the energy required and carbon dioxide emissions per metric ton of steel is also detailed.
December 30, 2025 at 6:56 PM
compoundchem.com
Fluorinated so-called "forever chemicals" continued to generate environmental and health concerns this year.

This infographic from earlier in the year looks at what forever chemicals are used for, their issues, and potential alternatives: www.compoundchem.com/2024/12/06/pfas

#ChemSky 🧪
Infographic titled “Fluorinated ‘forever chemicals’ and where to find them.” It explains that fluorochemicals are carbon-based compounds containing fluorine, often called PFAS. Their strong carbon–fluorine bonds make them persistent and able to accumulate in the environment. Key concerns include water contamination, bioaccumulation, and links to health issues. Common uses include water-resistant, stain-resistant, and non-stick coatings, firefighting foams, packaging, and cosmetics. Examples of PFAS with structures and uses are shown, including PFOA, PFOS, PFBS, PFDA, PTFE, and PFHxS.
December 29, 2025 at 4:15 PM
compoundchem.com
2025 brought us a new Pope ⛪ This was one of my most popular infographics this year, explaining how the Papal Conclave produces the black and white smoke used to signal the results of Pope selection votes: www.compoundchem.com/2025/05/08/p...

#ChemSky 🧪
Infographic on the smoke recipes used at the Papal Conclave. Historically, the conclave generated black smoke by burning tar or pitch with the ballots. Today, they use a mixture of potassium perchlorate, anthracene and sulfur. In the past, the conclave added wet straw to the burning ballots to generate white smoke. Today, they use a mixture of potassium chlorate, lactose and rosin (pine tree resin).
December 29, 2025 at 10:45 AM
compoundchem.com
Weight-loss drugs such as Ozempic hit the headlines in 2025 – and patents for these drugs expire in some countries in 2026.

In this edition of #PeriodicGraphics in @cenmag.bsky.social earlier this year, we looked at how these drugs work and their associated risks: cen.acs.org/biological-c...
Infographic titled “The science of weight-loss drugs” explaining how GLP-1 and GLP-1 receptor agonists work. Panels describe that GLP-1 is a hormone made in the pancreas, intestines, and brain stem, binding to receptors to suppress appetite, slow stomach emptying, and increase insulin release. Another section explains GLP-1 receptor agonists, their development from exendin-4 in 1992, FDA approvals in 2005 and 2017, and their medical uses for diabetes and obesity. Side effects such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and rare serious risks are listed.
December 28, 2025 at 3:36 PM
compoundchem.com
And finally, fermentation!

Hope those of you celebrating have all
Had a good Christmas Day 🎄
Photo of a glass of dark beer next a can. The beer is White and Dark Chocolate Pepernoten from Vault City
December 25, 2025 at 9:11 PM
compoundchem.com
Following up with a combustion reaction 🔥
Photo of a flaming Christmas pudding
December 25, 2025 at 7:41 PM
compoundchem.com
There’s no better time of year to sit back and admire the Maillard reaction
Photo of a roasted turkey on a kitchen counter
December 25, 2025 at 3:16 PM
compoundchem.com
Merry Christmas, everyone!
Photo of a peptide made from amino acids, the code for which spells out “Merry Christmas”
December 25, 2025 at 2:21 PM
compoundchem.com
It's Christmas Eve and the final day of #ChemAdvent!

We're finishing off with Christmas pudding and why you shouldn't hide a coin in the mixture as was customary in the past 🪙

#ChemSky 🧪
Infographic on the chemistry of Christmas puddings. The graphic shows the chemical structures of tartaric acid (from raisins) and citric acid (from citrus peel). It also explains how the custom of hiding small silver coins in the mixture is not advisable with modern coiins due to their nickel content.
December 24, 2025 at 11:14 AM
compoundchem.com
Day 23 of #ChemAdvent!

Prawns turn red-orange when cooked as astaxanthin is revealed 🟠

Bells are made from tin bronzes, with trace elements improving the material properties and sound 🔔

Guess the very tenuous, silly, and non-chemical connection that led me to pair these ones?

#ChemSky 🧪
Infographic on the composition of bell metals, which are commonly made of tin bronzes (75% copper and 20% tin, with other metals making up the balance). Infographic on the chemistry of prawns. It explains how the compound astaxanthin changes from a protein-bound to a free form when prawns are cooked, revealing its orange-red colour.
December 23, 2025 at 1:14 PM