Scientists Say

A weekly word defined, in a sentence and in context. Click here to find the alphabetized list.

  1. Math

    Scientists Say: Quantitative and Qualitative

    These two research approaches collect different forms of data. Both help scientists unlock secrets and build knowledge.

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  2. Life

    Scientists Say: Biodiversity

    The coral reefs at Komodo, one of the Lesser Sunda Islands in Indonesia, are among the most diverse ecosystems on Earth.

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  3. Genetics

    Scientists Say: Genome

    This complete set of DNA carries all the basic “how-to” instructions an organism needs to grow, develop and live.

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  4. Environment

    Scientists Say: Steppe

    Expansive, windswept grasslands offer ample grazing for roaming herd animals and more.

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  5. Space

    Scientists Say: Lagrange point

    Between and around a two-body system — such as the Earth and sun — there are five points of prime celestial real estate.

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  6. Animals

    Scientists Say: Kleptopredation

    It’s a hunter-eat-hunter world out there, and this feeding strategy gives some double-dipping predators a competitive edge.

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  7. Chemistry

    Scientists Say: Lipid

    These oily, water-repelling molecules knit together, forming the membranes that sustain life.

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  8. Physics

    Scientists Say: Tauonium

    No protons, neutrons or electrons. And yet, based on what scientists know about fundamental particles, this variety of atom just might exist.

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  9. Tech

    Scientists Say: Prototype

    These rough draft models help engineers test how a concept translates from theory to reality.

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  10. Earth

    Scientists Say: Heat dome

    Typically, weather enters an area, storms through, then leaves. Here's what happens when steamy summer air gets stalled.

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  11. Math

    Scientists Say: Ratio

    This math tool shows how two quantities measure up against one another.

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  12. Ecosystems

    Scientists Say: Ecosystem

    The interplay between living things and the physical environment gives rise to Earth’s thriving, life-sustaining ecosystems.

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