Science & Society

Climate

For greener toilets and air conditioning, consider saltwater

Using saltwater would allow coastal cities to save their freshwater for drinking and to reduce their carbon footprints. Some could save money, too.

Space

This astronaut took a winding journey into space

Astronaut Kjell Lindgren has flown into space twice and performed more than 100 scientific experiments. He is now part of the crew planning a return to the moon.

Psychology

Done right, online learning might be as engaging as face-to-face  

Measures of stress offer clues to how engaged students are during online lessons. This could help teachers design more effective classes.

Psychology

Supportive spaces help LGBTQ+ youth thrive in school and beyond

Schools are safer and more welcoming when their policies respect and affirm LGBTQ+ students. Clubs can push for changes that boost kids’ mental health.

Environment

Making yards more diverse can reap big environmental benefits

Replacing grass with native plants uses less water and fewer chemicals while providing additional benefits to people and wildlife.

Space

Here’s why the moon must get its own time zone

But should moon time be like Earth time — or quite different? At issue: The moon’s lesser gravity will make seconds there tick faster than on Earth.

Brain

Let’s learn about the science of language

The languages we speak may help shape how we see, smell and hear the world around us.

Chemistry

This forensic scientist is taking crime science out of the lab 

Kelly Knight uses her past struggles and passion for forensics to inspire her students.

Health & Medicine

Fentanyl deaths have spiked among U.S. kids and teens. Here’s what to know

A pediatrician discusses how teens can protect themselves and their friends from this extremely deadly drug.

Climate

Due to global warming, major league hitters are slugging more home runs

Major League Baseball has seen an average of 58 more home runs each season since 2010. The apparent reason: reduced friction on the balls in warmer air.

Tech

Recycling rare-earth elements is hard — but worth it

As demand for these valuable metals has been skyrocketing, scientists have begun inventing new — and greener — ways to reuse what they have in hand.

Earth

Rare earths’ hidden electrons make much of modern tech possible

Because of their unique chemistry, rare-earth elements can generate powerful magnetic fields and fine-tune light for a wide range of applications.