It reeks of rotting fish but finds use in a range of applications - Jenna Bilbrey introduces trimethylamine

Phenol, that mainstay of the chemical industry, was a familiar smell around the house in soap. Brian Clegg reveals all

Simon Cotton describes one of his favourite school chemistry experiments, involving this week's compound: Glycerol

It's highly toxic but essential for studying detailed structures of cells. Brian Clegg introduces osmium tetraoxide

You may have created it in a fiery flash or taken it to soothe a burning stomach. Simon Cotton on magnesium oxide

Why don't fish freeze in sub-zero seas? Helen Scales introduces the compounds that protect them - antifreeze glycoproteins

It makes a sweet banana-flavoured treat, but can ruin home brewed beer; Jenna Bilbrey introduces isoamyl acetate

The science is far from settled, but this week's compound – bisphenol A – is facing bans across the world

Helen Scales investigates tributyltin, banned from use as anti-fouling paint for causing 'imposex' in marine life

From potential painkiller to kitchen-cooked heroin replacement, Nate Adams tracks the history of desomorphine