MS-ETS1-1

Define the criteria and constraints of a design problem with sufficient precision to ensure a successful solution, taking into account relevant scientific principles and potential impacts on people and the natural environment that may limit possible solutions.

  1. Microbes

    Kitchen sponges are bacteria’s dream home

    Sponges are favorite spots for bacteria, partly because of the mixed-housing environment that the cleaner-uppers offer microbes.

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  2. Materials Science

    Engineers borrow a tree’s cellulose to toughen new materials

    Cellulose gives plants their strength. Engineers are turning this renewable, environmentally friendly resource into brand new materials.

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  3. Tech

    Robots made of cells blur the line between creature and machine

    Scientists are using living cells and tissue as building blocks to make robots. These new machines challenge ideas about robots and life itself.

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  4. Tech

    A new device uses atoms’ quantum weirdness to peer underground

    Quantum sensors like this one could monitor magma beneath volcanoes or uncover archaeological artifacts.

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  5. Materials Science

    A disinfectant made from sawdust knocks out deadly microbes

    It’s made by pressure-cooking sawdust and water, is cheap and easy to make — and could lead to greener cleaning products than chemicals used today.

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  6. Tech

    Scientists Say: Machine learning

    Machine learning allows computers to learn new skills without programmers having to write out step-by-step instructions.

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  7. Humans

    The earliest known pants are surprisingly modern — and comfy

    This 3,000-year-old garment was not only stylish but also functional. By recreating it, scientists also unraveled its complex and multicultural origins.

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  8. Tech

    Teen inventors say: There’s got to be a better way

    Finalists in the 2022 Regeneron Science Talent Search are revamping prostheses, earthquake safety systems and air travel.

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  9. Chemistry

    New process can transform urban CO2 pollution into a resource

    Researchers have developed a liquid metal that breaks down carbon dioxide in the air, converting it from a climate threat into a valuable raw material.

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  10. Tech

    These flying robots protect endangered wildlife

    Flying drones make conservation work much easier. Around the world, drones and artificial intelligence help scientists study or protect endangered animals.

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  11. Animals

    A new drug mix helps frogs regrow amputated legs

    The treatment helped frogs grow working limbs useful for swimming, standing and kicking. It’ll be a while before people can do that.

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  12. Physics

    Analyze This: Masks cut the distance that spit droplets fly

    Both cloth masks and surgical masks reduced the distance spit traveled from a person talking or coughing by at least half, compared with no mask.

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