It’s a wonderful world — and universe — out there.

Explainers

Background pieces for a deeper dive into a broad range of pivotal topics

Science & Society
Explainer: What is a patent?

By Janet RaloffMarch 20, 2013
Climate
Explainer: El Niño and La Niña

By Stephen OrnesFebruary 13, 2013
Chemistry
Explainer: Ocean acidification

By Stephen OrnesDecember 5, 2012
Physics
Explainer: What is Acoustics?

By Emily SohnDecember 14, 2011
Physics
Explainer: What is a laser?

By Amanda Leigh MascarelliOctober 27, 2010
Climate
Explainer: Global warming and the greenhouse effect

By Agnieszka BiskupMay 7, 2010
Planets
Explainer: What is a planet?

By Jennifer CutraroOctober 8, 2008
Physics
Explainer: The particle zoo

By Stephen OrnesSeptember 7, 2008

Physics
Explainer: Understanding light and electromagnetic radiation

By Janet RaloffApril 8, 2008
Animals
Explainer: Jelly vs. jellyfish: What’s the difference?

By Rachel EhrenbergApril 1, 2008
Chemistry
Explainer: What are oxidants and antioxidants?

By Janet RaloffMarch 19, 2008
Physics
Explainer: How a synchrotron works

By Emily SohnOctober 19, 2007