Chemical impact on history...
Printed From: History Community ~ All Empires
Category: General History
Forum Name: Natural History
Forum Discription: History viewed through ecology, geology, paleoclimatology, paleontology & zoology to assist in understanding earth's history
URL: http://www.allempires.com/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=23324
Printed Date: 08-Jun-2024 at 06:26
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Topic: Chemical impact on history...
Posted By: pekau
Subject: Chemical impact on history...
Date Posted: 24-Jan-2008 at 17:28
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I am currently reading a book called, Napoleon's Buttons: How 17 Molecules Changed History. Although its impact may be slightly exaggerated, it's fascinated to see how our history changed merely because of some chemicals and elements that we learn in basic science course. Any interesting discussions about how chemicals impacted the world would be appreciated. The ones that are not in the book will be most welcomed. ------------- http://swagbucks.com/refer/Malachi"> 
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Replies:
Posted By: Knights
Date Posted: 26-Jan-2008 at 02:17
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Well, I haven't read the book, so I don't know which ones aren't in there - but I'll mention some nonetheless. - Radioactive elements like Plutonium and Uranium have had a profound impact on nuclear science and power. - In terms of fuel, hydrocarbons have had a profound impact - alkanols and alcohols to be specific. Things like anes, enes and nols: meth, eth, prop, but, pent.etc. - Polymers have been monumentally useful to mankind, used in everything from clothing to desalination pipes (carbon nanotubes). Plastics have revolutionised many industries. - In addition to this, electrolyte chemicals have allowed for electrical and ionic movement in solution. This flow of electrons is important in many electrical goods nowadays. - Precious metals have of course had an impact on aesthetics, but have also been used for other things (eg. gold, being malleable and an insulator, has many functions). - I think it's safe too, to say that crude oil has had a rather significant impact on society. By fractionally distilling it, you can get a range of byproducts like petroleum, diesel, asphalt, tar and many more. There are heaps more of course. Regards, - Knights - ------------- |
Posted By: Jams
Date Posted: 06-Mar-2008 at 20:26
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So, what are those molecules? Alkanes? (as Knight mention) and why seventeen? I suppose chemistry isn't just molecules, how about salts and metals, they're important too, no? ------------- |
Posted By: Guests
Date Posted: 13-Aug-2008 at 04:18
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Don't forget gunpowder and how it changed the world. ------------- |