Molecules with Silly or Unusual Names

Believe it or not, some chemists do have a sense of humour, and this page is a testament to that. Here we'll show you some real molecules that have unusual, ridiculous or downright silly names. Look for example, at Sexithiophene:

Sexithiophene

This is a 'sexi' molecule - which means it has 6 sub-units, in this case of thiophene rings. Because of its conjugated system of double bonds, this organic molecule conducts electricity quite well. As a result, it is one of a number of similar molecules being studied for possible uses in organic polymer electronics.

 

Quotes related to science and life in general  (for example  Murphy's Law)

Murphy's Law: If anything can go wrong, it will. Murphy's Corollary: Left to themselves, things tend to go from bad to worse. Murphy's Second Corollary: It is impossible to make anything foolproof because fools are so ingenious Murphy's Constant: Matter will be damaged in direct proportion to its value Quantized Revision of Murphy's Law: Everything goes wrong all at once. O'Toole's Commentary: Murphy was an optimist.

 

Rules of the lab 1. When you don't know what you're doing, do it neatly. 2. Experiments must be reproduceable, they should fail the same way each time. 3. First draw your curves, then plot your data. 4. Experience is directly proportional to equipment ruined. 5. A record of data is essential, it shows you were working. 6. To study a subject best, understand it thoroughly before you start. 7. To do a lab really well, have your report done well in advance. 8. If you can't get the answer in the usual manner, start at the answer and derive the question. 9. If that doesn't work, start at both ends and try to find a common middle. 10. In case of doubt, make it sound convincing. 11. Do not believe in miracles---rely on them. 12. Team work is essential. It allows you to blame someone else. 13. All unmarked beakers contain fast-acting, extremely toxic poisons. 14. Any delicate and expensive piece of glassware will break before any use can be made of it. (Law of Spontaneous Fission)