Friday, April 2, 2010

Molecule Knitting Charts - Isn't it sweet?

My other molecule knitting charts have been very popular, so I've decided to expand with some other famous molecules. Today I will provide you with molecules that are sweet, or that you often associate with something sweet. (For other molecule knitting charts by ChemKnits checkout the 20 (natural) amino acids, generic pentapeptide chart, and Molecule Charts I: containing some amino acids, glucose, THC - tetrahydrocannabinol, and capsaicin.)


Everyone loves sucrose (table sugar), but not everyone loves the calories contained in this disaccharide.


Splenda: "Made from sugar, so it tastes like sugar." The charts are identical, except you could switch a different color for the chlorines that replace the alcohols. I'm a splenda girl, myself.


Aspartame (or E951 if you're in Europe) has had some controvercy surrounding it's safety (It's been found to be safe, people!), this peptide derived sweetener is not safe for those with phenylketonuria.


NeutraSweet is essentially the same as Aspartame, but it has been modified with a 3,3-dimethylbutyl group, making it more resistant to peptidases (enzymes which will break down peptides until their amino acid building blocks, reducing the risks for phenylketonurics.


Saccharin also had its share of health controversies, but once again, appears to have been exonerated.


Cinnamaldehyde gives cinnamon it's odor and taste, and comprises 90% of the oil in cinnamon bark. Mmmmmm....

Use these charts to make something fun for your favorite science friend who likes to cook (or who just has a sweet tooth.) Enjoy!


This this pattern was created by ChemKnits for your personal or charity use. This pattern is not to be replicated, sold or redistributed without permission from ChemKnits. © 2010 ChemKnits