“Carolyn Bertozzi, Morten Meldal, and Barry Sharpless!” Orak announced.
Verum, Scorch, and Felix listened intently as Orak explained, “They are scientists. They won the Nobel Prize in Chemistry. A branch of science, Chemistry is the study of matter and its changes.
The Nobel Prize is one of the most important and prestigious awards. It is given every year to people who have made outstanding contributions in six areas. The six areas are physics, chemistry, medicine, literature, peace, and economics. The Nobel Prize is named in the honor of the Swedish scientist Alfred Nobel.”
“Congratulations to the winners!” The Mysticals gave a huge round of applause to the scientists.
“Professor Bertozzi is from the United States (US). She is the eighth woman to win the Nobel Prize in Chemistry. Professor Sharpless is also from the US. He has won the Nobel Prize twice! Professor Meldal is from Denmark, a country in Europe,” Orak said.
“Orak, can you tell us about their work that won them the Nobel Prize?” Scorch asked.
“They worked on click chemistry,” Orak informed, “Their work made chemistry simpler and more effective.”
“Whoa! Whoa! I don’t understand your super sci-fi language. Simplify please, Orak,” pleaded a confused Felix.
Orak chuckled and said, “Molecules are made when two atoms join. Click chemistry is linking molecules toge… umm..”
Orak paused as he saw Felix blink very fast. Orak said, “I think it’s easier to explain using Lego pieces for example.
In Lego, one piece has bumps. The other piece has holes. When they are pressed together, these two pieces click to join. Similarly, click chemistry also allows molecules to click or join together. This click chemistry is used in developing treatments for cancer and tumors.”
“Oh, Orak, that’s simply amazing. It will help so many people!” Scorch said.
“Yes!” Orak nodded happily.