Chemical Compound in Peppers: What Makes Them Spicy?

What is the chemical compound that makes peppers hot?

Final answer:

Capsaicin is the chemical compound that makes peppers hot.

Final Answer:

Capsaicin is the chemical compound that makes peppers hot. It interacts with the body's protein receptors in the same way heat does, causing a sensation of burning or pain.

The chemical compound that makes peppers hot is known as capsaicin. It is found in peppers and is responsible for the 'heat' sensation experienced when eating them. Interestingly, capsaicin stimulates the same protein receptors that react to actual heat, specifically by opening calcium channels. This is why consuming peppers can cause a painful or burning sensation similar to touching something hot. People who can tolerate more heat find peppers to be less painful, as the brain has a partially muted perception of pain.