Science

Alkalis: alkali metals, industrial soda and modern safety

Alkalis are strongly basic substances and alkali metals (lithium to francium). Historically derived from plant ashes, industrial soda ash production moved from the Leblanc method to the Solvay (ammonia-soda) process. Sodium hydroxide (caustic soda) is made by causticizing or by brine electrolysis. Alkalis are widely used but are corrosive; immediate water irrigation and medical assessment are essential after exposure.

What DNA Reveals: Basics for Forensic and Family Genetics

A clear, updated overview of nuclear, mitochondrial, and Y-chromosome DNA and how modern forensic profiling uses STRs and sequencing to compare samples.

Sonography Schools: Training, Specializations, and Career Pathways

Overview of sonography education: program types (certificate, associate, bachelor), accreditation (CAAHEP), clinical training, specializations, skills, and career considerations.

Fingerprinting: How Prints Form, How Investigators Find Them, and How They're Recorded Today

An updated overview of fingerprints: how they form, common pattern types, how latent prints are developed and recorded, and how modern systems and examiners use prints in investigations.

Fundamentals of Physics and Plasma Physics: Modern introductions and what they cover

An updated guide to two foundational textbooks: Halliday, Resnick & Walker for broad introductory physics, and Paul Bellan for a focused treatment of plasma physics, with advice on choosing the right book.