A chemist was murdered in his lab. The only clue was a note listing chemical substances: nickel, carbon, oxygen, lanthanum and sulfur. Three people visited that day: Claire, Nicolas and Marc. Who was arrested?

Why this works

At first glance, this riddle seems to hinge on the grim scenario of a murder mystery, but it's really a clever play on the periodic table. The key lies in the chemical symbols that the clever chemist left behind as his final clue. When you break down the substances listed—nickel (Ni), carbon (C), oxygen (O), lanthanum (La), and sulfur (S)—they weave together to spell out the name "Nicolas." It's a brilliant twist that turns a seemingly straightforward list of elements into a hidden message that identifies the culprit. This riddle not only showcases the ingenuity of wordplay but also highlights the fascinating intersection of science and language. The fun comes from that "aha moment" when you realize it’s not just a list of chemicals but a direct connection to one of the visitors. The riddle invites us to think outside the box, reminding us that sometimes the most obvious clues are hidden in plain sight, requiring a little lateral thinking to reveal their true significance. As a fun side note, riddles like this have a long history in literature and culture, often used not just for entertainment but also as a way to sharpen logical thinking and problem-solving skills. The art of crafting such puzzles dates back to ancient times, proving that the joy of wordplay and mystery has always captivated human minds!