Compound Interest (website)

Launched in 2013 by Andy Brunning, Compound Interest stands as a significant digital resource dedicated to making the principles of chemistry accessible and engaging for a broad audience. The website's core mission is to demystify the chemical processes that govern our everyday world, transforming complex scientific concepts into easily digestible visual narratives. Through the strategic use of infographics, Compound Interest illustrates how the chemical composition of substances influences their observable properties, such as aroma, taste, and hue.

This approach aims to foster scientific literacy and a deeper appreciation for the ubiquitous role of chemistry in nature and human life. The platform serves as an educational tool, bridging the gap between academic science and public understanding, and encouraging curiosity about the molecular underpinnings of familiar phenomena.

The inception of Compound Interest in 2013 marked a deliberate effort to innovate science communication. Andy Brunning recognized a need for a more visually oriented and less intimidating approach to chemistry education. He envisioned a platform where intricate scientific details could be conveyed through compelling graphics, making them approachable for individuals without a formal scientific background.

Over the years, the website has evolved, expanding its content and reach. A notable aspect of its development is the establishment of a monthly collaboration with the American Chemical Society (ACS). This partnership lends significant credibility to the website's content, ensuring that the information presented aligns with high scientific standards and reflects current research and understanding within the chemical sciences.

The impact of Compound Interest extends far beyond its immediate readership, influencing how scientific information is disseminated and consumed. Its success in translating complex chemistry into understandable infographics has made it an invaluable resource for journalists, educators, and content creators. Major media outlets, including The Washington Post, Time, The Conversation, and Forbes, have frequently cited and utilized content from Compound Interest.

This widespread adoption by reputable news organizations highlights the website's authority and its effectiveness in communicating scientific insights to a global audience. By providing accurate, engaging, and visually appealing explanations of chemical phenomena, Compound Interest plays a crucial role in promoting science literacy and fostering informed public discourse on scientific matters.

A primary focus of Compound Interest is the exploration of chemical compounds responsible for sensory experiences. The website meticulously details how specific molecules contribute to the distinct flavors and aromas we perceive. For example, it might explain the volatile organic compounds that create the characteristic smell of coffee or the esters that impart fruity notes to wine.

Similarly, it delves into the chemistry of color, illustrating how pigments absorb and reflect light to produce the vibrant hues seen in flowers, fruits, and minerals. By dissecting these sensory phenomena at a molecular level, Compound Interest provides a scientific framework for understanding the rich tapestry of tastes and colors that enrich our lives, demonstrating that even the most subjective experiences have objective chemical explanations.