ACS (American Chemical Society) has a a fun little thing called Molecule of the Week (MOTW). It is where ACS highlights a different chemical compound, explains it’s various chemical properties and interesting facts relating it to real life.
MOTW started endorsing different compounds in 2005 to promote public awareness about how chemistry is heavily involved in daily life and attract some interested souls. It’s first ever compound was Carboplatin, a potent prescription medicine that cures ovarian and lung cancer.
But I wanna dive deeper into June 22th MOTW, Acetophenone. (I was in china for the past month, hence why I didn’t make this sooner). Acetophenone is relatively simple, with a chemical formula of C₈H₈O. It also has an average benzene structure with a ketone group. But looks are deceiving as this molecule plays an important in our daily lives.
Acetophenone plays a role in many perfume, soaps and lotions that people buy/use in every day life. The reason behind it is due to the compound’s floral-almond smell that makes it ideal for it to be in these products
In addition, it also used as an artificial flavor and add sweetness to junk food. These include baked goods, ice cream and candies. However, too much of Acetophenone can have neurological side effects, so it’s best to keep the amount in moderation.
Finally it is used as a solvent to make plastics and resins that are used in every day life.
It is very interesting how such a seemingly simple molecule can have so much uses in the real world which shows how chemistry is really all around us no matter if it seems complex or simple.
For people who want to know all of the MOTWs: https://www.acs.org/molecule-of-the-week/archive.html?#
Brandon Zhang :) 
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