Sugar, a natural sweet gift, plays an indispensable role in our daily lives. Beyond delighting our taste buds, its influence extends to crucial sectors such as medicine, energy, and the environment. This article delves into the world of sugar, exploring its basic structure, extensive societal applications, and innovative uses across various fields. It aims to provide readers with fresh perspectives and deeper insights.

Fire poses a severe threat to public safety and property. Enhancing fire safety awareness is crucial for preventing fires and minimizing damage. This paper presents a comprehensive popular science experiment to introduce aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF), which is widely used today. Unlike ordinary foam extinguishers, AFFF contains fluorocarbon surfactants, key components that significantly reduce the surface tension of water and the interfacial tension between water and oil. This allows the AFFF solution to spread over the oil surface, forming a water film and facilitating foam formation. During firefighting, the water film and foam work together to isolate air. In this experiment, several concepts, such as surface tension, the properties of fluorocarbon chains, intermolecular interactions, and combustion conditions through demonstrations, interactions and questioning, have been first introduced. In a live demonstration, the fire-extinguishing effects of AFFF are vividly presented. The experiment is visually impactful, utilizing affordable and readily available instruments and reagents. The educational and interactive aspects of the demonstration effectively combine learning with entertainment, significantly enhancing audience’s scientific literacy and safety awareness.

Straw, as a significant agricultural waste, presents both a resource waste and a pollution challenge when traditionally managed. To promote the sustainable utilization of straw resources, this paper vividly introduces the current utilization status and existing issues of straw from a chemical perspective. By highlighting the potential applications and social value of straw, and advocating for its rational use, this paper aims to enhance resource utilization efficiency and contribute to the sustainable development of agriculture, green growth, and the construction of an ecological civilization.

Noncovalent interactions encompass hydrogen bonding, electrostatic interactions, hydrophobic effects, π-π interactions, and van der Waals forces, among others. Despite being weaker than covalent bonds, these interactions pervade our daily lives, showcasing their significant influence at every moment. This article adopts a conversational format to briefly introduce everyday phenomena and objects driven by noncovalent interactions. Through practical examples, we aim to deepen readers’ knowledge and understanding of the field of supramolecular chemistry, allowing the public to appreciate the marvels of molecular art within supramolecular chemistry.

Throughout history, the use of chemical knowledge for information encryption has been common. This paper introduces the public to the chemistry behind phosphorescent materials through the "promotion story" of the phosphorescent materials team. It highlights the waterproof and color-changing properties of new phosphorescent materials and explores recent scientific advancements in encryption, anti-counterfeiting, and decryption technologies. The article aims to engage readers in the fascinating world of chemistry while emphasizing the importance of information security and technological progress.

This article intertwines the popularization of red materials, the legacy of red romance, and the ideological and political beliefs associated with red. It delves into elements such as romanticism, historical and cultural narratives, revolutionary ideals, technological advancements, and practices in popularization of science. By uncovering the chemical and ideological dimensions behind the color red, this work presents a multi-dimensional exploration of the unique sentiments of the Chinese people towards “Chinese Red”.

Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RAs) have garnered significant attention in recent years for their notable effects in lowering blood glucose and treating cardiovascular diseases, with semaglutide being a leading example. This article, written in a popular science format, provides a brief introduction to the hypoglycemic mechanism, functional structure, and side effects of semaglutide, as well as the critical role of the penetration enhancer salcaprozate sodium (SNAC) in its oral formulation. Through this discussion, we aim to highlight the fascinating aspects of drug design while promoting the importance of rational medication use.

This article narrates the challenges faced by protagonists Xiao Zhou and Xiao Huang as they resume exercise after the COVID-19 pandemic. Xiao Zhou, having been inactive for a prolonged period, seeks to regain physical fitness but overexerts himself, leading to physical and mental exhaustion and a decline in condition. The article explores the physiological role of the sarcoplasmic reticulum and delves into the chemical processes involving γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA), 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT), and cortisol, influenced by exercise and impacting mood and muscle growth adversely. Additionally, it examines the effects of exercise on muscle fibers.

This paper uses personification to illustrate the recent development and applications of selenium through the story of the “Selenium Knight”. The narrative follows selenium’s journey across various fields, taking on roles as a healer, traveler, and scientist, showcasing its applications in medicine, agriculture, tourism, and industry. Ultimately, as an educator, selenium travels widely to inspire more people to engage in its popularization. Along the way, it establishes the “Selenium Family Science Laboratory”, encouraging students to connect with real-world needs and explore further functions and applications of selenium.

This article discusses the relationship between the bitter taste of cold-natured traditional Chinese medicine and its active components, such as alkaloids, terpenoids, and glycosides, based on the medical practice of traditional Chinese medicine practitioner Yu Yi. It provides a detailed analysis of the mechanism behind bitterness and its therapeutic effects. By deepening the understanding of how bitterness works, the article also explores the mechanism and efficacy of bitter-masking agents in traditional Chinese medicine formulations, making bitter-tasting cold-natured remedies more acceptable to the public.

Hard carbon, encompassing resin carbon, pyrolytic carbon from organic polymers, carbon black, and other carbonaceous materials, garners significant attention due to its distinctive structure. This paper adopts an anthropomorphic approach through popular science lectures to introduce the structure, preparation methods, properties, and applications of hard carbon. This approach aims to deepen readers’ understanding of hard carbon materials.

A summer-born Antarctic fish experiences its first winter and learns from its mother about the key to survival: antifreeze proteins and their mechanism of action. Through subsequent challenges in freezing conditions, it discovers diverse antifreeze mechanisms and explores the extensive applications of antifreeze proteins in nature.

This paper uses an accessible and engaging approach to explore the toxic substances and their related chemical properties found in everyday foods such as beans, potatoes, and Hemerocallis citrina Baroni. It also discusses the applications of these toxic compounds in other fields, as well as practical methods for safely handling these foods. The aim of this article is to provide readers with a broader understanding of the pervasive role of chemistry in daily life, enhance their ability to prevent food poisoning by applying this knowledge, and inspire greater interest in chemistry and scientific exploration.

In an emergency room, nitric oxide (NO) miraculously saved a child from respiratory failure. While the medical staff were amazed by NO’s remarkable effects, they were equally frustrated by the bulkiness and safety concerns of the gas cylinders used to deliver it. However, a casual conversation with a chemist brought a surprising revelation: NO could be generated on demand, thanks to the stability of nitrogen compounds in various valence states, which allowed for multiple generation methods. This inspired the development of a portable NO therapy device. With the collective efforts of the R&D team, various solutions were proposed, evaluated, and tested. After numerous refinements, the portable NO generation device was successfully developed and is now widely used in hospitals, replacing traditional cylinders. Praised for its portability and ease of use, the device has been well-received by doctors and nurses. The R&D team was invited to share their insights into the development process and the importance of critical thinking, creativity, team management, and collaboration, all of which were key to their success.

This paper unveils the fundamental properties, environmental hazards, detection methods, and beneficial applications of radon through a narrative involving a lung cancer case. Integrating knowledge from chemistry and environmental sciences, it enhances clarity on the nature of radon for readers.

As a significant branch of organic compounds, organophosphorus compounds play key roles in various fields, including agriculture, pharmaceuticals, chemical industries, and environmental protection. However, public perception of these compounds is largely confined to organophosphorus pesticides, leading many to “fear phosphorus” due to their known toxicity. This paper uses an anthropomorphic approach to vividly explain the poisoning mechanisms, detoxification measures, and safe usage practices of organophosphorus pesticides. It also highlights the broader applications of organophosphorus compounds, aiming to provide readers with a more comprehensive understanding of these substances through an engaging and informative narrative.

This paper effectively employs anthropomorphism to narrate the discovery history, classification, mechanisms of action, adverse effects on human health, and guidelines for antibiotic use. It aims to engage readers in an enjoyable exploration of fundamental antibiotic knowledge.

In the “human body” factory, the director of the hepatocyte workshop, nicknamed “Xiaodeng”, manages ethanol metabolism to maintain stability. However, with the onset of diseases like diabetes and insomnia, the central nervous system introduces foreign aids such as sedatives and antihypertensive drugs. Xiaodeng inadvertently overlooks the potential disulfiram-like reaction between medications and aldehyde dehydrogenase. In an unfortunate incident, a conflict between cephalosporin drugs and ethanol metabolism inhibits acetaldehyde dehydrogenase, leading to acetaldehyde accumulation and ensuing chaos. Recognizing the oversight, Xiaodeng strengthens safety measures and instructs workers to exercise caution when using medications. Although the crisis is contained, this experience underscores the hepatocytes’ enhanced sense of responsibility and mission. We should learn from this and prioritize life, avoiding unnecessary risks such as excessive alcohol consumption. Let us unite in safeguarding this miraculous factory to ensure its safety and prosperity.

Originating from moldy sweet clover and developed in a biochemical laboratory, warfarin was initially deployed as a potent rodenticide. However, its journey into the medical field was met with skepticism and opposition, largely due to its reputation as a poison and circulating rumors. Scientists eventually uncovered warfarin’s anticoagulant mechanism and demonstrated the benefits of its use in anticoagulation therapy for patients. Since then, warfarin and its derivatives have become key agents in both anticoagulant treatment and rodent control.

This article presents a story about the laws of thermodynamics through a personified narrative. The protagonist, “Miss Electron”, dances gracefully in the microscopic world, her movements symbolizing chemical reactions. Her mentors, Clausius and Boltzmann, impart knowledge of entropy and the laws of thermodynamics, which govern the rules of her dance. Although “Miss Electron” follows these laws, she dreams of performing a “contra-thermodynamic” dance, inspired by electrocatalytic reactions. In the real world, she encounters “Mr. Battery”, embarking on a journey into the realm of organic electrocatalysis. This encounter represents the tension and harmony between tradition and innovation in scientific discovery, as well as the challenges and opportunities faced by a young dreamer. Through a compelling narrative, the article introduces methods for calculating changes in Gibbs free energy during chemical reactions, and explores how electrocatalytic reactions use electrical work to input energy into a system, thereby enabling chemical reactions with positive Gibbs free energy changes—what recent literatures refer to as “contra-thermodynamic” reactions. The article illustrates the importance of these reactions in chemical research through two examples: water electrolysis and electrocatalytic cyclic deracemization (ECD). Furthermore, it discusses the challenges adolescents face in their quest for self-identity, highlighting the importance of embracing innovation and daring to break boundaries: true innovation lies not in discarding established principles, but in creating new possibilities within existing constraints.

This experiment focuses on the preparation of cream cosmetics and innovatively develops gradient science popularization activities tailored to audiences with varying knowledge backgrounds. Utilizing original videos, informative flyers, PPT presentations, and on-site guidance, the experiment elucidates the principles of emulsification and related cosmetic knowledge to primary and secondary school students, as well as the general public, while introducing the cosmetic preparation process. For programs targeting college students, the complexity and depth of the experiments are increased, allowing students to independently conduct the preparation and performance characterization of cosmetics. This popular science experiment has garnered unanimous praise in practice and possesses significant practical relevance and promotional value.

Digital PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) enables highly sensitive nucleic acid detection, allowing for the analysis of individual molecules. With its unique capability for absolute quantitation and high sensitivity, digital PCR has emerged as a powerful tool in biomolecular research. This article presents digital PCR from a first-person perspective, allowing readers to appreciate the evolution, technical principles, and applications of digital PCR during the pandemic.

Perylene diimides (PDIs) and their derivatives are organic semiconductor materials with exceptional optoelectronic properties, extensively researched and applied in high-tech fields such as organic photovoltaics, organic light-emitting diodes, and organic field-effect transistors in recent years. Their advantages—such as low cost, strong visible light absorption, ease of band edge modulation, and the ability to form ordered supramolecular structures—have positioned them as rising stars in photocatalysis. This article incorporates elements of Chinese traditional culture and employs a personified approach in the form of a martial arts tournament to illustrate the structures and characteristics of PDI materials. By comparing the photocatalytic performance of PDIs with other photocatalytic materials, the paper highlights the advantages and challenges of PDIs in photocatalysis and offers insights into their promising development prospects in this field.

With the intensification of global climate change and the growing importance of sustainable development, carbon neutrality has become a significant topic of concern. This article focuses on the element of carbon, introducing its transformation and recycling processes in various forms. It discusses how carbon dioxide is fixed in nature and highlights new methods for achieving carbon neutrality, including starch synthesis and biomass conversion, aimed at building a greener, more sustainable society.

As nanomedicine molecules, A and B enter the human body to neutralize a specific enzyme. During investigation, they encountered hydrogen sulfide whom they consider to be abnormal. Following the trail of hydrogen sulfide, they investigate its production sites, uncover the mechanisms behind its formation, and journey to its destination. Ultimately, they discover that hydrogen sulfide is not the toxic gas; rather, it serves as a kind of gas signaling molecule that can protect cardiac muscle.

This article presents a dialogue between Professor K and student Little C, focusing on discussions about several key reactions in alkene chemistry. By incorporating concepts from the periodic table and acid-base theory, the article provides a systematic and comprehensive explanation of alkene reactions. Starting from the fundamental properties of alkenes, it progresses to various typical reactions, including electrophilic addition, halogenation, and hydroboration. The discussion also reflects on designing reactions and the nature of catalysts. Under Professor K’s guidance, Little C gradually deepens his understanding of the mechanisms and principles underlying these reactions. Utilizing the periodic table and acid-base theory, he further enriches his comprehension of organic chemistry.

With the improvement of modern living standards, plastic products have become an indispensable part of our daily lives. However, plastic pollution has emerged as one of the most severe environmental problems today, plastic recycling being crucial to addressing this challenge. This paper introduces new technologies in the field of plastic recycling through a science fiction narrative, aiming to raise awareness about the importance of ecological protection while also envisioning the future development of plastic recycling and utilization.

DNA, as a highly dense and durable information storage medium, holds significant potential for the long-term preservation of cultural heritage data. This paper explores the process of converting data from the Dunhuang murals into DNA sequences using DNA storage technology, highlighting the application of dual-layer error correction codes and de Bruijn graph algorithms to ensure data stability and recoverability. Furthermore, the use of “cell disk” as a storage medium is expected to enable high-density and long-term DNA data storage. The goal is to inspire readers to engage with and explore cutting-edge technologies.

Camptothecin, a potent anticancer agent derived from traditional Chinese medicine, serves as the focal point of this article. Through the imaginative lens of a science fiction narrative, the article depicts camptothecin’s battle against tumor cells. Employing a combination of scientific rigor and engaging language, it elucidates the compound’s properties, mechanisms of action, and recent research progress in structural modifications, functional enhancements, and clinical applications.

The newly revised Law on the Popularization of Science and Technology has established a robust legal foundation for universities to advance science popularization efforts. Leveraging the unique and abundant resources available in higher education institutions, this paper explores the integration of science popularization into teaching, research, and other diverse educational approaches. It highlights a series of distinctive science popularization activities, including scientific innovation guidance for youth, frontier knowledge dissemination for teachers, students, and the public, and engaging chemistry enlightenment programs for children. These initiatives underscore the potential and leadership role of universities in promoting chemistry science popularization.

Tea polyphenols, the primary polyphenolic compounds in tea, are responsible for its color, aroma, and health benefits. Using common tea products, we developed two innovative experiments based on tea polyphenols’ antioxidant properties and metal ion complexation: (1) “Colorful Tea Chemistry” for elementary students demonstrates antioxidant effects through color changes while introducing Chinese tea varieties and culture; (2) “Poetic Chemistry” for secondary/college students with chemistry background showcases metal ion reactions, extraction methods, and industrial applications to encourage scientific innovation. These home-friendly experiments combine safety and engagement while integrating traditional culture to enhance both scientific and cultural literacy.

Through an anthropomorphic approach, this article adopts the first-person perspective of Pentaerythritol as a child, narrating its story of making friends and engaging in lively dialogues to introduce the chemical reactions between Pentaerythritol and other compounds, as well as the applications of the resulting products. Detailed explanations are provided on the esterification of Pentaerythritol with fatty acids, its nitration with nitric acid, chelation with zinc oxide, involvement in the synthesis of ibuprofen through ketal condensation, and the preparation of Pentaerythritol and dipentaerythritol. Additionally, the article briefly describes the lubricating properties of Pentaerythritol esters and their applications in daily chemicals and aerospace, the explosive nature of Pentaerythritol nitrate, the thermal stabilizing effect of Pentaerythritol zinc, and the uses of related compounds.

This article introduces a product launch event focused on promoting environmental sustainability, showcasing four eco-friendly products derived from Sapindus: natural Sapindus hand soap, natural Sapindus shampoo, Sapindus saponin insecticide, and Sapindus biodiesel. These products harness the natural properties of Sapindus and play a crucial role in reducing chemical pollution and protecting the environment. The article highlights how each product reflects the environmental value of Sapindus and outlines the event’s objectives: to raise public awareness of environmental protection, promote sustainable development, and advocate for a “carefree and sustainable” lifestyle. Through these innovative products, the event aims to demonstrate the significance of Sapindus in modern life and inspire collective action toward environmental conservation.

L-Carnitine, the “energy messenger” of the cellular city, plays a crucial role in transporting long-chain fatty acids to the mitochondria for β-oxidation and energy release. This article employs an anthropomorphic approach to describe its biosynthesis, tissue distribution, transport mechanism, and pivotal role in fatty acid metabolism. It emphasizes the significance of L-carnitine in promoting weight loss and improving health, aiming to popularize scientific knowledge about L-carnitine and enhance public awareness of its importance.

Pineapple (Ananas comosus), an important tropical cash crop, is not only rich in carbohydrates, vitamins, and dietary fiber in its fruit, but also contains high-value bioactive components such as cellulose, polyphenols, and bromelain in its leaves, peel, and crown. With the extensive cultivation of pineapple in China, pineapple wastes have become one of the major agricultural byproducts. Through biorefinery approaches, these pineapple-based wastes can be converted into various biofuels including biohydrogen, bioethanol, and biodiesel. This diversified utilization pattern of pineapple biomass resources can maximize resource utilization efficiency, enhance economic benefits, while simultaneously reducing environmental pollution and promoting green sustainable development of resources, thereby contributing to the “dual carbon” goals. Employing an anthropomorphic narrative approach, this paper elucidates the main components of pineapple waste and their applications, vividly illustrating how pineapple wastes achieve the “remarkable transformation” in the energy sector through biorefinery technologies.

Starch, a ubiquitous ingredient in the kitchen, can be transformed into various types of food through different chemical reactions. This article explores the role of starch in the Northeastern Chinese specialty dish, potstickers, and provides a step-by-step analysis of key chemical reactions involved, such as gelatinization, the Maillard reaction, and retrogradation. By doing so, it aims to spark readers’ curiosity about the application of organic chemistry in culinary practices.

Self-healing materials, a novel class of materials capable of repairing themselves after damage, hold immense potential for diverse applications. Through a dialogue between two university students, Dahua and Xiaoxue, this article explores the chemical principles underlying intrinsic and extrinsic self-healing mechanisms, including reversible reactions, dynamic covalent bonds, and supramolecular interactions. Additionally, it highlights the future development prospects of self-healing materials.

Thalidomide, once infamous for its teratogenic effects, is now widely utilized in treating inflammation, malignant tumors, and various autoimmune diseases. Traditional chemistry textbooks often emphasize its structure and teratogenicity, resulting in limited awareness of its subsequent developments and failing to inspire students to delve deeper into the chemical aspects of this drug. Drawing inspiration from the traditional Chinese story “Zhou Chu Eliminates Three Evils”, this article adopts a first-person narrative to comprehensively explore the history, mechanisms of action, synthesis methods, and modern medical applications of thalidomide. By doing so, it aims to ignite readers’ curiosity and foster a deeper understanding of this multifaceted drug.

This popular science article employs a creative narrative approach, with a glucose molecule serving as the first-person narrator to vividly describe cellular respiration in eukaryotic cells. The story traces the metabolic transformations of various compounds, energy transfer pathways, and underlying chemical reactions throughout this fundamental biological process. Through this engaging perspective, the complete respiration pathway comes to life - from initial glycolysis to the citric acid cycle and final oxidative phosphorylation.

Cuisine is far more than just a feast for the taste buds — it represents a fascinating stage where physical chemistry principles come to life. When we savor the color, aroma and flavor of food, we are actually experiencing intricate and sophisticated chemical transformations. To thoroughly explore the physical chemistry behind these gastronomic experiences, this article investigates several key aspects: how taste perception emerges from neural-molecular interactions, the subtle changes occurring during food storage, and the remarkable transformations of ingredients during cooking processes. Through these analyses, we reveal the fundamental principles governing various physical changes in food processing and preservation. Our ultimate goal is to help readers develop stronger capabilities in comprehensively analyzing, predicting and simulating complex food engineering challenges.

Dental plaque, a complex biofilm formed by various oral pathogens embedded in an extracellular polymeric substance (EPS) matrix, is characterized by its inconspicuous nature, strong adherence, and resistance to removal, making it a key factor in the development of periodontal diseases. This article employs a narrative approach to present strategies for the detection, treatment, and prevention of dental plaque, aiming to enhance public awareness of oral hygiene and correct misconceptions about dental care. Furthermore, it seeks to foster a deeper understanding of bacterial biofilms, exemplified by dental plaque, highlighting their positive roles in various aspects of life and showcasing the transformative power of science in turning challenges into opportunities.

The oil-paper umbrella, a traditional Chinese handicraft with a history spanning thousands of years, stands as a significant symbol of Chinese culture. This article narrates the story of an old craftsman creating oil-paper umbrellas as a dowry for his daughter’s wedding, delving into the chemical principles underlying its production process. Key techniques such as alkaline pulping, persimmon lacquer bonding, cinnabar adhesion, and tung oil waterproofing are explored in detail. Additionally, the article uncovers the ideological and political elements embedded in this craft, seamlessly integrating culture, chemistry, and ideological education to achieve a harmonious balance between knowledge dissemination and value guidance.

In the context of global efforts toward carbon neutrality and peak carbon emissions, developing alternative energy solutions and improving energy efficiency have become critical priorities. Phase change materials (PCMs) show significant promise in addressing these challenges. This article explores the fundamental chemistry behind reusable hand warmers through the “hot ice” experiment, demonstrating how crystallization of supersaturated sodium acetate solution releases latent heat. Beyond its visual appeal, this experiment serves as an engaging introduction to thermal energy storage concepts. We draw parallels between electrical energy storage in batteries and thermal energy storage using PCMs, presenting several practical applications that highlight the potential of this technology for sustainable energy solutions.

Does a bowl of creamy, aromatic lamb soup require technology and brute force? Behind the “white soup incident” that sparked nationwide debate in late 2024 lies an intriguing food science mystery. This article aims to reveal the science behind “white soup” through simple home experiments. Results indicate: alkaline water and collagen both facilitate the emulsification of oil and water; the soy milk maker acts as a “physical wizard”, pulverizing fats into nano-sized particles to rapidly achieve the pinnacle of emulsification. Traditional lamb soup preparation requires no industrial additives. Through “natural magic” (phospholipids and collagen) and “physical magic” (boiling), enhanced by the “magic of time”, it achieves a stable, milky soup with a unique “aroma code”. Yet for modern consumers with high-fat diets, while white soup is delightful, moderation is advised.

Zirconium, a versatile element of the atomic age, possesses exceptional properties including high-temperature resistance and a low thermal neutron absorption cross-section. This creative science narrative presents The Zirconium Kingdom, a fictional world where elemental characters collaborate to prevent an asteroid crisis. Through this engaging storyline, we explore zirconium’s discovery, its unique material characteristics, and its diverse applications—from nuclear reactors to aerospace thermal protection systems. By blending scientific facts with imaginative storytelling, this work aims to make zirconium’s chemistry more accessible and memorable for readers.

This article examines the chemistry involved in the alchemy furnace depicted in the popular film Nezha: Birth of the Demon Child, focusing on processes like mercury sulfide decomposition and black powder reactions. By analyzing these chemical transformations, we uncover the scientific knowledge embedded in ancient alchemical practices and explore their connection to modern chemistry. The study highlights how humanity's quest to understand matter has evolved continuously from mystical traditions to scientific inquiry, demonstrating that the essence of scientific spirit lies in persistent exploration and innovation. Concluding with the metaphor of “scientific cultivation,” we advocate for carrying forward this timeless spirit of discovery and integrating traditional wisdom into future scientific advancement.

With the rapid advancement of technology, batteries, as an indispensable “source of energy” in our daily lives, provide power support for various devices. However, seemingly ordinary batteries gradually “age” during operation, ultimately affecting the normal use of devices. So, why do batteries “age”, and how can we help them “extend their lifespan”? This paper adopts a unique anthropomorphic perspective to delve into the “inner world” of batteries. It first unveils the mystery behind battery operation, explaining how they convert chemical energy into electrical energy. In this process, key factors such as resistance, conductivity, and ion mobility act as “behind-the-scenes drivers”, influencing battery performance. To help batteries “delay aging”, the paper explores practical methods to extend their lifespan, enabling batteries to maintain “youthful vitality” and deliver better performance. Finally, it introduces future development trends of new high-energy-density batteries, such as all-solid-state batteries and lithium-air batteries. These emerging technologies not only hold the potential to address the “aging” issues of traditional batteries but also contribute to environmental protection efforts.

Hyaluronic acid (HA), also known as hyaluronan, is an important biological macromolecule that was first isolated from the bovine vitreous humor by Professor Meyer and his team. As a non-sulfated glycosaminoglycan, HA has earned its reputation as “best all-rounder” due to its unique biological functions and wide-ranging applications. Its contributions span medicine, cosmetics, and food industries. In medicine, it finds applications in joint care, ophthalmic surgery, and dermal fillers. In the cosmetics industry, HA is regarded as the “queen” of skincare owing to its exceptional moisturizing properties. In the food industry, its dual benefits for health and beauty have gained popularity. This article employs a “Best All-rounder” award ceremony concept to showcase HA's unique properties and contributions while revealing the chemical basis behind its versatility, offering readers insights into this multifunctional biomolecule's role in modern life.

Polymer materials are susceptible to chain scission, performance degradation, discoloration, and reduced service life when exposed to outdoor light, heat, and oxidative conditions. This article elucidates the chemical nature of light stabilizers by analyzing the composition of commercial sunscreens, while detailing their classification and anti-aging mechanisms. Through the illustrative case study of “An An's Sunscreen Quest”, we demonstrate the prevalent types and functional mechanisms of light stabilizers in four practical applications: UV-protective clothing, playground slides, waste containers, and synthetic turf. The primary objective is to enhance public understanding of light stabilizers' crucial role in prolonging polymer material durability, while emphasizing their scientific and technological significance in both daily life and engineering applications.

The Chemistry Experiment Teaching Center at the University of Science and Technology of China (USTC), as an Anhui Provincial science education base, has developed extensive experience in science outreach. This article presents the Center’s practices in developing science communication resources, conducting both online and offline outreach activities, and organizing science communication volunteer programs. We propose that universities should fully utilize their academic strengths to create high-quality science communication materials, expand their reach through digital tools, and integrate science popularization with education to better support innovation and new quality productivity development.