Engineering Design

Tech

Magnetic fields melt and re-form new shape-shifting devices

Miniature machines made of gallium and magnetic particles can switch from solid to liquid and back.

Genetics

Experiment: Are fingerprint patterns inherited?

Let’s investigate whether fingerprint patterns are created randomly or whether they are influenced by genetics.

Chemistry

Chemists have unlocked the secrets of long-lasting Roman concrete

By searching ancient texts and ruins, scientists found a concrete recipe that could make buildings stronger — and help address climate change.

Environment

Sea life may suffer as plastic bits alter metals in water

This interplay between plastics and metals could affect how each affects the environment — and suggests opportunities for controlling their risks.

Climate

Here’s how to increase clean energy without harming wildlife

Wind farms, solar panels and more take up land and may harm wildlife. Researchers are working to resolve this conflict.

Physics

A powerful laser can control the paths that lightning takes

In a mountaintop experiment, a laser beamed at the sky created a virtual lightning rod that snagged several bolts.

Health & Medicine

New brain scans may show if a concussion has not yet healed

Concussions change certain brain waves, and delta waves may be the best signs of when teens can return to competitive sports.

Tech

Think of this new tech as sunglasses for our windows

Keeping buildings cool can use a lot of energy. Thanks to quantum computing, engineers designed a coating to cut the warming light that enters windows.

Tech

Can we build Baymax?

Baymax may be science fiction, but soft robotics is not. Experts break down Baymax’s parts and show what’s coming in the future.

Health & Medicine

High school scientists tackle community health and safety risks

Three finalists in the 2023 Regeneron Science Talent Search aim to improve suicide risk assessment, treatment of sickle cell disease and more.

Computing

A single chip like this could transmit a world’s worth of data

The internet has a big environmental footprint. But this new type of tech could help reduce the climate impact of computing.

Materials Science

Analyze This: Algae behind blue-glowing waves light up a new device

Some algae glow blue when they experience forces. Held in transparent plastic, they now make devices light up in response to gentle pushes and tugs.