Older termites have explosive backpacks

Older termites have ‘suicide packs’ of chemicals on their backs to fight off intruders. When attacked they burst and release toxic chemicals that paralyse and kill invading termites. See ‘Explosive Backpacks in Old Termite Workers’ in Science

Geek science fact for the Olympics and Paralympics: Fireworks!

As always, Olympics opening ceremonies include fireworks and today’s was no exception. Fireworks use a lot of science – for example, particle sizes control the rate of burn, different colours are created by using different metals, and the sounds and shapes depend on how the chemicals are packed.

Olympic Games 27 July – 12 August

How much are you worth – chemically?

If you break down the chemicals in your body, I’m afraid it’s only about a dollar…