3 Good Things (chemical compounds edition)

This weekend, I particularly appreciated three chemical compounds that helped me to enjoy my life. While I take pleasure in the first on a daily basis and the second on at least a weekly basis, I didn't know how often I employed the third and therefore didn't value its impact until I used it in its very caustic form.


Wakes me up, makes me warm, and kicks my day into gear. I particularly love the feel of the warm, heavy mug of its most popular form in my hand. Wear your love of caffeine on your sleeve (or ears as the case may be).




Lets me know it’s time to celebrate. When it’s in this bottle, it screams LIFE IS GOOD. When it’s in this glass with olives and olive juice, it’s a sign that the weekend is over and it’s time to watch Mad Men. Celebrate your geekdom with these glasses. (My birthday is Friday, by the way.)

Helps me maintain one of my critical household systems, particularly when I have a bunch of hairy, and occasionally, very dirty people living here. Over the weekend, this caustic chemical made me happiest of all. Read the interesting history of potassium hydroxide and go-a-black-berrying from Sir Humphry Davy on over to my favorite scientist, Michael Faraday. (Or, if you watched Dollhouse this weekend, you may be interested in one of its niche applications – ew.)

Comments

Stephen Bourque said…
I like the KOH arrangement especially. That's one good-looking molecule!
October 26, 2009 at 10:03 PM
Lynne said…
Simple looking and yet deceptively powerful! How can you help but be attracted to it?
October 27, 2009 at 10:31 AM
Gus Van Horn said…
Happy birthday!

As a former chemistry major (until I switched to math after two semesters of organic chemistry) I enjoyed the post.

But still, your praise of KOH had me scratching my head until I remembered its household use. And then I laughed! I BET Stephen's a fan!

Those wine glasses are choice, too.
October 28, 2009 at 3:02 PM
Lynne said…
Thanks, Gus.

The more I think about it, the more enamored I become of the 3D ethanol molecule. It looks like a wonky balloon dog relieving himself.

And now I'll never forget it.
October 29, 2009 at 6:56 PM
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