ChemMatters Archive

ChemMatters is produced by the American Chemical Society in October, December, February, and April. The archive gives you access to all of ChemMatters’ past articles, dating back to February 1983. The most recently released issue is available through a complimentary subscription, if you chose to receive one when you joined AACT.

For recent articles, issues, or available teacher’s guides visit acs.org/ChemMatters.

AACT members can access the archive and generate a Student Pass that gives their students access to the articles. Available Teacher’s Guides can also be found next to the corresponding issue and article in the archive.

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  • Rebreathers

    Scuba divers can stay under water for a long time, thanks to cylinders filled with air that they carry on their back. But the air Scuba divers breathe out contains oxygen that can be reused by a breathing device called a rebreather.

    Issue Date | February 2008

  • The Forensics of Blood

    By looking at the blood left behind at a crime scene, police investigators can find many clues to what happened. The investigators can use chemistry-based techniques to determine whether the victim, the criminal, and/or other people left blood at the crime scene and whether pets or other animals may have been part of the crime too.

    Issue Date | February 2008

  • The Not So Simple Life of Filters

    Filters come in all shapes and sizes and perform different functions. You may be surprised to discover how many filters are present around you and may discover new filters you hadn't heard of before.

    Issue Date | February 2008

  • Beyond Hydrogen: The New Chemistry of Fuel Cells

    As gas prices and global temperatures continue to rise, discussions about the feasibility of fuel cell-powered vehicles intensify. Learn more about fuel cells and the various fuels that could be used in their operation.

    Issue Date | December 2007

  • Hindenburg: Formula for Disaster

    The Hindenburg airship crashed on its way to Lakehurst, NJ in May 1937. Seventy years later, debate over the cause of the disaster continues. Has chemistry provided any answers or has it led to more questions?

    Issue Date | December 2007

  • How the Cookie Doesn’t Crumble ...and Other Sweet Chemistry Secrets

    It’s no accident that some cookies are crisp and others are soft; that some cookies are flat and others are cake-like. Find out how basic chemical principles are used to make the perfect sweet treat.

    Issue Date | December 2007

  • Question From the Classroom | December 2007

    Shaking a can of soda makes its pressure increase...fact or fiction? Explore the answer to this question of FIZZ-ical chemistry. The truth may surprise you!

    Issue Date | December 2007

  • The Captivating Chemistry of Candles

    Candles have been used for thousands of years to provide light in darkness and, more recently, to illuminate birthday cakes and to bring fragrance to our homes. You’ll be “enlightened” as you explore the components and operation of the candle.

    Issue Date | December 2007

  • The Solid Facts about Trans Fats

    In the last several months, you may have noticed labels declaring “No Trans Fats!” or “Trans Fat Free!” on the packaging of your favorite snack foods. But what are trans fats and why should they be avoided?

    Issue Date | December 2007

  • Linus Pauling, American Hero

    Linus Carl Pauling, former American Chemical Society President, two-time Nobel Prize winner, prolific chemist, and ardent humanitarian: Take a look at the life and accomplishments of this great chemist.

    Issue Date | October 2007

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About ChemMatters Magazine

Published four times a year since February 1983, ChemMatters Magazine is an award-winning high school chemistry magazine from the American Chemical Society that helps students demystify chemistry and make connections to the world around them. AACT members receive a complimentary subscription.

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