Physics
- Materials Science
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.
- Physics
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
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.
- Chemistry
Scientists Say: Polymer
Polymers can be natural or man-made, but they are all big molecules made up of smaller units linked together.
- Materials Science
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.
- Materials Science
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.
- Physics
Physicists foil classic oobleck science trick
Cornstarch and water — best known as oobleck — solidifies upon impact. Researchers used a new technique to make it stay liquid.
- Physics
Scientists Say: Spaghettification
Black holes cram a lot of mass into a small area. When another object gets close, the black hole’s gravity can stretch it into a noodle-like strand.
- Physics
Scientists Say: Momentum
This word describes a property of a moving object based on its mass and the direction and speed of its motion.
- Chemistry
Let’s learn about bubbles
Bubbles are a great way to while away a beautiful summer day. Knowing a bit of science can help you blow the biggest and the best bubbles.
