Environment
Legos could last a disturbingly long time in the ocean
By looking at toys washed up on beaches, scientists have estimated how long it takes hard plastics to break down in the oceans. And it’s a long time.
Engineering Design
More Stories in Engineering Design
-
Health & MedicineNew ultrasound treatment kills off cancer cells
Low-frequency ultrasound destroys cancer cells while leaving most healthy cells intact.
-
EnvironmentGreener than burial? Turning human bodies into worm food
Composting human bodies yielded good results — and good soil — in one small study. It could become an alternative to burial or cremation in one state.
-
Materials ScienceSilk can be molded into strong medical implants
Freeze-dried and powdered silk has a long shelf life. It also is cheap to ship and can be molded into sturdy medical implants.
-
PhysicsTry This: Walking on water with science
Water striders walk on water. How do they do it? They spread out. This experiment will show you how it works.
-
PhysicsSoap bubbles’ ‘pop’ reveals the physics of the bursts
A bubble’s pop is a quiet, high-pitched noise. This can reveal the forces that occur during the bubble’s demise.
-
Science & SocietyCOVID-19: When will it be safe to go out again?
No one yet knows when social distancing can end. Experts explain we need 'herd immunity,' which won't be easy and may come at a horrific cost.
-
BrainZapping the brain may make it work right again
Sending electrical zaps to electrodes implanted deep in the brain can help people with Parkinson’s disease, depression and even obsessive-compulsive disorder.