Math
How math makes movies like Doctor Strange so otherworldly
In the 1970s, a mathematician introduced geometric patterns that he named fractals. Moviemakers are now using those patterns to create dazzling digital effects.
Computing
More Stories in Computing
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TechThis robot’s parts are helpless alone, but turn smart as they team up
In a new system called “particle robotics,” many small, simple helpless units can seemingly come to life and start moving when amassed into a team.
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ComputingNovel fabric could turn perspiration into power
Sweat cools people by evaporating. A teen now wants to use it to generate electricity as well.
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Science & SocietyYou can fight back against cyberattacks
Cyberattacks have cut power to a major city and delayed the delivery of medicine. Find out how experts combat such attacks and how to protect yourself.
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Science & SocietyThese scientists help rescue ‘broken’ digital art
Computer-based art is more fragile than you might think. Fortunately, computer science offers new ways to restore these digital creations.
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ChemistrySmartphone app helps researchers track art ‘acne’
Metal soaps can form damaging blisters on the surface of oil paintings. Scientists are tracking these “breakouts” to protect priceless art.
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TechRise of the botnets
Botnets are armies of connected, infected computers that attack websites and other online businesses. Some scientists have found ways to use connected computers for good, too.
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TechThis bionic mushroom makes electricity
What do you get when you combine fungi, graphene, 3-D printing and photosynthetic bacteria? A mushroom that makes electricity.
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ComputingThese young researchers take aim at sports
Three Broadcom MASTERS finalists invented sports-related devices. They illustrate that young inventors can find inspiration anywhere, even at work and play.
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ComputingThis printer makes ‘visual’ aids for people with sight problems
A physicist’s vision loss was the inspiration to develop new printers. They create touch-to-read maps, charts and graphs. Some can even talk to blind users.