The DNA-surrounding capsid of the cold virus and the atomic arrangement of a certain allotrope of boron consists of 20 triangles arranged in a three dimensional shape known as a icosahedron. If you form a three-dimensional structure with 8 triangles, you get an octahedron. An example is the molecular structure of the electrical insulator and... Continue Reading →
Someone can observe a fair number of sunrises without becoming jaded. There is often an unprecedented observable variation in the pattern and thickness of clouds, which changes the corresponding array of colours. Add to it the sense of scale and the feeling of rejuvenation with every dawn, and each sunrise has the potential of inspiring... Continue Reading →
If you take a sample of rock from one of the main peaks of Northern Italy's Dolomite Mountains and add hydrochloric acid, the effervescence will be quite weak. The streaming of carbon dioxide bubbles will be far more vigorous if you add the same acid to rocks from most Alpine peaks. Both samples contain carbonate, the... Continue Reading →
The mineral mangan neptunite has the empirical formula K2Na4Li2Mn3Fe2+Ti4Si16O48 It's been found locally here in St.Hilaire and samples on ebay are not cheap. The compound fascinates me because it consists of seven oxides, all of which are binary compounds. Can you give formulas for each of the oxides? We expect you to get the answer from... Continue Reading →
