Romantic chemistry is highly difficult to predict, let alone to define. Nevertheless, according to classic research by Helen Fisher—late biological anthropologist and research fellow at Kinsey Institute—it is still an observable neuropsychological phenomenon. Her study, involving 17 participants described as “intensely in love,” showed that regions of the brain associated with motivation and reward were highly active when looking at their loved ones.

Thus, when you hear someone say that they’ve “got chemistry” with someone else, this is likely the cause—namely, activation of brain areas that are brimming with dopamine. However, genuine romantic connection and chemistry are not the only variables that can make our hearts race, palms slicken, and cheeks blush.

Here are two things that can have similar effects to romantic chemistry, but should never be confused with it.

Have you ever had a conversation with someone impossibly attractive, and by the end of it, you were convinced that they were the one for you? You’re not alone if you’ve been in this situation. But, unfortunately, you’re also likely a victim of your neurochemistry. While attraction is certainly an important aspect of connection for some individuals, they don’t........

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