Computing
- Math
How math makes movies like Doctor Strange so otherworldly
In the 1970s, a mathematician introduced geometric patterns that he named fractals. Moviemakers are now using those patterns to create dazzling digital effects.
- Computing
Computer chips from carbon nanotubes, not silicon, mark a milestone
Silicon has been king of cutting-edge electronics. But that reign may soon end, with carbon nanotubes taking silicon’s place.
- Tech
AI can learn real-world skills by playing video games
Video games are helping AI systems work together and adapt to real-world situations.
- Tech
This robot’s parts are helpless alone, but turn smart as they team up
In a new system called “particle robotics,” many small, simple helpless units can seemingly come to life and start moving when amassed into a team.
- Computing
Novel fabric could turn perspiration into power
Sweat cools people by evaporating. A teen now wants to use it to generate electricity as well.
- Science & Society
You can fight back against cyberattacks
Cyberattacks have cut power to a major city and delayed the delivery of medicine. Find out how experts combat such attacks and how to protect yourself.
- Science & Society
These scientists help rescue ‘broken’ digital art
Computer-based art is more fragile than you might think. Fortunately, computer science offers new ways to restore these digital creations.
- Chemistry
Smartphone app helps researchers track art ‘acne’
Metal soaps can form damaging blisters on the surface of oil paintings. Scientists are tracking these “breakouts” to protect priceless art.
- Tech
Rise of the botnets
Botnets are armies of connected, infected computers that attack websites and other online businesses. Some scientists have found ways to use connected computers for good, too.
- Tech
This bionic mushroom makes electricity
What do you get when you combine fungi, graphene, 3-D printing and photosynthetic bacteria? A mushroom that makes electricity.
- Computing
These young researchers take aim at sports
Three Broadcom MASTERS finalists invented sports-related devices. They illustrate that young inventors can find inspiration anywhere, even at work and play.
- Computing
This printer makes ‘visual’ aids for people with sight problems
A physicist’s vision loss was the inspiration to develop new printers. They create touch-to-read maps, charts and graphs. Some can even talk to blind users.
