Physics
- Physics
Friction is the key to cozy knits
Friction between loops of yarn give knit fabrics their ability to take on a variety of shapes.
- Chemistry
Scientists Say: Absorb and Adsorb
These words sound and look a lot alike. But crucial differences lie in how they soak up that spill.
- Physics
Eyelashes help fling water from our eyes
The “micro-ratchet” structure and curvature of eyelashes could help keep eyes clear of rain, sweat and tears.
- Space
Ancient black holes might solve the mystery of dark matter
Studies of gravitational waves, stars and other features of the universe could reveal whether such “primordial” black holes exist.
- Tech
Move over Iron Man, exoskeletons are getting real
Real-world wearable devices help people stay safe at work and accomplish everyday tasks.
- Brain
Purple exists only in our brains
Most colors represent a single wavelength of light. But your brain invents purple to deal with wavelengths from opposite ends of the visible spectrum.
- Archaeology
Let’s learn about radiocarbon dating
Through the power of radioactivity, carbon dating can reveal the age of many fossils and artifacts.
- Materials Science
This teen materials scientist wants to save the Great Salt Lake
Thermo Fisher JIC finalist Sophia Zhang investigated hydrogels that might conserve water in farming — a big stressor of the lake’s water supply.
- Tech
Bird-inspired airplane wings could boost flight performance
Rows of flaps inspired by a bird wings’ feathers improve airfoil performance to boost lift and reduce drag.
- Physics
Shark intestines inspire pipes with a strictly one-way flow
The pipes contain a twisty coil that lets liquids flow in one direction but not the other.
- Computing
A new frontier awaits — computing with light
Today’s computers process using electrical signals. But light shows promise as a new means of computing, especially for AI.
- Materials Science
Experiment: The surprising strength of eggshells
Architecture is full of arched doors, windows and other structures. But how strong is the natural arch of eggshells?
