Physics
-
- Brain
Explainer: How our eyes make sense of light
It takes a lot for images before the eyes to be 'seen.' It starts by special cells sensing the light, then signals relaying those data to the brain.
- Physics
Understanding light and other forms of energy on the move
Radiation needn’t be scary, especially if it allows us to see our family or use our cell phones. Here’s a guide to light and other types of emitted energy.
- Space
Spotted: Milky Way’s giant gas bubbles in visible light
The bubbles have different colors, based on how the gas inside them moves. That could give clues to how the bubbles developed.
- Physics
Shape-shifting cuts give shoes a better grip
With pop-out structures inspired by kirigami and animals, a shoe sole goes from flat to spiky to boost friction on slippery surfaces such as ice.
- Physics
A contrast between shadows and light can now generate electricity
A new device exploits the contrast between bright spots and shade to produce a current that can power small electronics.
- Space
Oldest disk galaxy puts a new spin on galaxy growth
A spinning disk galaxy has been found in the early universe. Its existence is a surprise.
- Chemistry
Scientists Say: Polymer
Polymers can be natural or man-made, but they are all big molecules made up of smaller units linked together.
- Chemistry
Working up a sweat may one day power up a device
Tech that turns sweat into power may make for greener gadgets. A new device uses perspiration to charge a supercapacitor and run a sensor.
- Plants
Silk-based microneedles may help treat diseased plants
Engineers have invented silk microneedles to inject medicines into plants. One day farmers might use drones to dart their sick plants with meds from the air.
- Space
Astronauts may be able to make cement with their own pee
Lunar dust and a compound found in urine might one day be used to build future dwellings on the moon, a new study finds.
- Chemistry
Let’s learn about colors
The colors we see come from electromagnetic waves traveling through space and hitting our eyes.
