Physics
What did you say? Fabric masks can really muffle voices
Some types of face masks muffle speech more than others — something that teachers should take into account.
By Sid Perkins
Physics
More Stories in Physics
-
TechBye-bye batteries? Power a phone with fabric or a beacon with sound
New piezoelectric systems produce electricity in unusual ways, such as when a certain nylon bends or underwater ceramics vibrate.
-
ChemistryA soil-based ‘concrete’ could make buildings green, even on Mars
A new soil-based material offers an alternative to concrete for 3-D printing environmentally friendly buildings.
-
TechFlexible devices may help clothes solar power your screens
A fluorescent polymer duo boosts the efficiency of solar cells. One day this material may coat your jacket, hat or backpack to provide power on the go.
-
PhysicsResearchers reveal the secret to the perfect football throw
The tip of a spiraling football follows the ball’s path. If you know a thing or two about gyroscopes, this is not what you’d expect.
-
ChemistryHere’s how to make flip-flops biodegradable
Innovative flip-flops made from an algae-based plastic decompose in soil or compost. The comfy shoes also avoid use of fossil fuels.
-
PhysicsScientists Say: Velocity
Velocity is more than speed. It is both speed and the direction in which an object is traveling.
-
AnimalsThe diabolical ironclad beetle is nearly unsquishable
The diabolical ironclad beetle is an incredibly tough little creature. A peek inside its exoskeleton reveals what makes it virtually uncrushable.
-
TechThis artificial skin feels ‘ghosts’ — things you wish were there
Engineers have developed a wearable device that simulates the sense of touch. It may benefit robotic surgery and deep-sea exploration.
-
Materials ScienceAnalyze This: Insect shells could help builders on Mars
When mixed with rocky soil, a compound called chitin makes a strong material. It could be pulled from the shells of insects used for food.