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7 Most Weird Science Discoveries That Happened by Accident

science discoveries by accident

Curiosity, testing, and experimenting are at the heart of science.

However, there have been numerous cases where some of these trials have led to unexpected discoveries.

So, let's discuss accidental experiments that have impacted our lives.

1. Microwave

Percy Spencer developed the microwave when he realized that the bar of chocolate in his pocket melted as he walked in front of a magnetron,' a vacuum tube used to generate microwaves.

He subsequently conducted more experiments to learn more about what and how this occurred.

2. Coca–Cola

It is the most widely consumed universal beverage on the planet. Coca-Cola Discovery happened in John Pemberton’s search for headache treatment, he utilized coca leaves and cola nuts.

His lab assistant mixed the two chemicals with carbonated water by accident, resulting in the first Coca-Cola.

3. Velcro

While trailing in the Alps with his dog, George de Mestral discovered velcro.

He chose to study burrs stuck to his dog's fur under a microscope after noticing them.

He noticed the tiny hooks that allowed it to attach itself to fabrics and fur.

With more research, he became the guy responsible for the invention of what is now known as 'Velcro.'

4. Teflon

Remember Roy Plunkett's name since he's the reason you can quickly flip a pancake.

He observed a canister containing gas had vanished, leaving behind a few white flakes while in a freezer room.

He investigated the odd substance and discovered it had a high melting point and was an excellent lubricant. 

5. The colour 'Mauve'

While in college in 1856, William Perkin was attempting to cure malaria.

He'd been experimenting with combining hydrogen and oxygen to coal tar, which turned into a gorgeous purple liquid when heated.

As a result, the colour mauve was identified.

5. Corn Flakes

Will Keith Kellogg discovered this all-time favourite cereal while assisting his brother.

He mistakenly left off the crucial component — cooked wheat for several hours – while baking bread. To fix his error, he decided to add it to the bread and knead it in.

This all-time favourite breakfast cereal was created when the wheat turned flaky.

6. Penicillin

When Alexander Fleming came back from vacation, he started sorting Petri dishes.

He noticed that one of the Petri dishes with 'staphylococcus' had developed mould.

After investigating this peculiar phenomenon, Fleming discovered penicillin, which is now used to treat a broad spectrum of infections.

7. Super-Glue

When Harry Coover was attempting to produce transparent plastic gun sights for use on guns during World War II, he discovered super-glue.

Coover found that this was an excellent bonding adhesive.

Due to the war, he had to forsake the idea, but he returned to it afterwards and became the guy behind this discovery.

These are accidental experiments, to be sure!

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