The Chemistry Centre had its official grand opening on 30 April 2010, with the Hon Mrs Laura Wolfson Townsley declaring the venue officially open.
The assembled guests heard RSC chief executive Dr Richard Pike introduce the beginnings of the Chemistry Centre - its transformation, with the generous support of the Wolfson Foundation, into the beautiful venue it is today.
RSC President Professor David Garner then introduced this very website, The Reaction, explaining how it would help the RSC inspire people around the world with chemistry.
Lady Wolfson then unveiled the official plaque and declared the Chemistry Centre open, while past RSC Presidents Professors Jim Feast and Eddie Abel looked on.
Finally the audience were treated to a spectacular ride through some of the most visually exciting experiments chemistry has to offer, with the flamboyant Dr Hal Sosabowski of the University of Brighton.
It was a fitting opening to the Chemistry Centre, as eminent professors, members of industry, school children and members of staff oohed, ahhed and laughed together, enjoying the simple wonders of chemistry.
Photos of the Chemistry Centre grand opening