Energy

  1. Physics

    Explainer: Quantum is the world of the super small

    The word quantum often gets misused. What does it mean? Think small. Really, really small.

    By
  2. Physics

    Disabilities don’t stop these experts in science and tech

    People with disabilities are as varied as the careers some of them pursue in science, technology, engineering and math.

    By
  3. Physics

    Scientists Say: Acoustic

    Acoustic is an adjective used to describe something involving sound. It’s also a noun that refers to the branch of physics that studies sound.

    By
  4. Tech

    Teen’s invention could help light up bikes at night

    A teen researcher from Georgia has developed a light that could replace reflectors on bike wheels. Flexing tires provide all the power it needs.

    By
  5. Physics

    Why your shoelaces untie themselves

    High-speed video shows how the combined motions of a shoe’s swinging and landing on the ground provoke shoelaces to come untied.

    By
  6. Animals

    Cool Jobs: A world aglow

    Three scientists probe how the natural world makes light, in hopes of using this information to design new and better products.

    By
  7. Computing

    Germs power new paper batteries

    New paper-based batteries rely on bacteria to generate electricity. These ‘papertronic’ power systems may be a safer choice for remote sites or dangerous environments.

    By
  8. Physics

    How to chill an object by sending its heat into space

    Researchers have designed a device that can cool an object by radiating its energy into outer space. Think of it as a solar panel in reverse.

    By
  9. Tech

    Speedy, springy robot ‘Salto’ catches some serious air

    A lightweight robot nicknamed “Salto” can bound from floor to wall and back. Such fast and agile bots may someday aid in search-and-rescue operations.

    By
  10. Physics

    Wind power gets downsized — but in a good way

    Two young scientists have developed ways to tap into wind power on a small scale.

    By
  11. Tech

    Star Trek technology becomes more science than fiction

    On Star Trek, the characters used devices that seemed wild, futuristic and impossible. But those sci-fi gadgets are inspiring real-world, useful inventions.

    By
  12. Computing

    Self-designed tattoos are fashionable technology

    Researchers have created do-it-yourself temporary tattoos. They’re a fashion-forward way to control electronic devices.

    By