compoundchem

A chemistry-focused Mastodon account has revived a classic Star Trek science debate: whether Vulcans, with their green copper-based blood, could plausibly function like other vertebrates. Human blood relies on iron-based haemoglobin, while copper-based blood proteins, as in some molluscs, carry oxygen less efficiently, raising doubts that a Vulcan could chase around and stay active.

Compound Interest has published a new graphic explaining the chemistry behind sushi, covering what makes sticky rice cling together, how nori seaweed is processed, and the compounds in wasabi and pickled ginger that give them their distinctive flavours and help accompany raw fish. Science communicators are sharing the piece as an accessible food-science explainer.