Silver and Sunlight: The Science of Early Photography

In the early 19th century people dreamed of using light to paint permanent images. A legislator, a showman, and an inventor together created the first practical way to catch the world and the people in it in the strange and beautiful chemistry of the photograph.

Manufacturing the Weather

With dynamite and cannons, Robert St. George Dyrenforth hoped to end drought in the late 19th century. This vision of weather and climate control seized the imagination of scientists and businessmen. In the heat of climate change, the appeal - and the controversy - of this vision endures.

Chemical Relations: William and Lawrence Knox, African American Chemists

Brothers William and Lawrence Knox discovered that earning Ph.D.s in chemistry was not enough to overcome discrimination. World War II opened doors to a wider chemical world, but racism continued to shadow their lives.

Chemistry at Play

First sold in 1791 to a scientifically literate audience, chemistry sets have since occupied many niches—from colorful children’s toys to essential educational tools. Now making a comeback after years of public neglect, modern chemistry sets are ready to deal with the issues of the 21st century.

Out Now! Summer 2010 Chemical Heritage Magazine

CHF Magazine Summer 2010, Vol. 28, No. 2

Jump into the hot seat this issue with climate engineering. Focus on the strange and beautiful chemistry of early photography. And finally, step into the lives of two African American brothers who, despite suffering the effects of racism, made contributions to chemistry.

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