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False col. SEM of caffeine crystals x150
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False col. SEM of caffeine crystals x150
False-colour scanning electron micrograph of anhydrous caffeine crystals (1, 3, 7-trimethylxan- thine). They were produced by sublimation: heating the solid until it is vapourised, then condensing the vapour. This drives water out of the structure resulting in anhydrous crystals. Some twinning can be seen here, where crystals at different orientations interpenetrate producing cross shapes. Caffeine stimulates the central nervous system increasing alertness and deferring fatigue. It is often contained in analgesic preparations with aspirin or codeine, and it is a diuretic. It occurs in coffee beans, tea leaves & cola nuts. Magnification: x150 at 6x7cm size
Science Photo Library features Science and Medical images including photos and illustrations
Media ID 6294187
© DR JEREMY BURGESS/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
Compound Compounds Crystal Crystals
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases the mesmerizing world of caffeine crystals, captured through a false-colour scanning electron microscope. Magnified at x150, these anhydrous caffeine crystals reveal intricate details and fascinating patterns that are not visible to the naked eye. To create these crystals, sublimation was employed - a process where solid caffeine is heated until it transforms into vapor and then condensed back into solid form. This transformation eliminates any water content within the structure, resulting in anhydrous crystals with enhanced purity. One striking feature of this image is the presence of twinning in some of the crystals. Twinning occurs when two individual crystal structures interpenetrate each other at different orientations, forming intriguing cross shapes. This phenomenon adds another layer of complexity and beauty to these caffeine crystals. Caffeine itself is widely known for its stimulating effects on the central nervous system. It increases alertness and helps defer fatigue, making it a popular ingredient in various analgesic preparations containing aspirin or codeine. Additionally, caffeine acts as a diuretic. Naturally occurring in coffee beans, tea leaves, and cola nuts, caffeine has become an integral part of our daily lives due to its energizing properties. Through this stunning photograph by Science Photo Library, we gain insight into the microscopic world of this chemical compound that plays such a significant role in our everyday routines.
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