High Performance Chemistry: Scientists in the Fast Lane

Abstract

Today, scientists-in-training might dream of researching the latest medical breakthroughs or solving the puzzle of a murder as a crime scene investigator. Many, as the authors will attest, might not even realize that gearheads and techies have joined to create another potential path for a scientist�working with the high performance technology known as open wheel automobile racing. The scientists involved with these racing athletes range from physicians to chemists to physicists to engineers. They are usually classically trained, but are performing their activities in an atypical fashion. In our case, we're interested in the combination of athletic performance with technology designed to withstand speeds in excess of 225 miles per hour and g-forces comparable to those experienced by fighter pilots and astronauts. The sport of open-wheel automobile racing with the Indy Racing League is a world of high technology paired with speed, performance, strategy, and a fair amount of luck. In connection with the American Chemical Society's 2008 National Chemistry Week theme of sports and chemistry, this article shares information about open wheel racing. It discusses the cars themselves, fuel and oil testing performed at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway (Indy), the challenges that face drivers, and the safety measures used.