Molecular symmetry Memes

Chemistry authors simply cannot resist slapping that hand-glove analogy onto any paper about chirality. It's the scientific equivalent of using Flex Tape to fix everything! For the uninitiated, chirality refers to molecules that exist as non-superimposable mirror images (like your left and right hands). Instead of explaining this complex 3D molecular property with, I don't know, actual chemistry , authors default to "imagine your hands are molecules!" in every. single. introduction. The perfect example of when creativity goes to die in academic writing. Next paper should just have a QR code linking to this meme instead of paragraph three.

The ultimate chemistry burn! When someone's having a heart attack, most people would call a medical doctor. But our inorganic chemist here skips right past "Do CPR" and jumps straight to "What's his point group?" 😂 For the non-chemistry nerds: point groups describe molecular symmetry and are basically the inorganic chemist's obsession. While the person is literally dying, this PhD is concerned with the symmetrical properties of the victim's molecules rather than, you know, saving their life. This is the perfect encapsulation of how specialized scientists can sometimes miss the forest for the extremely symmetrical trees. Classic academic tunnel vision at its finest!