Physics
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PhysicsUnderstanding light and other forms of energy on the move
Radiation needn’t be scary, especially if it allows us to see our family or use our cell phones. Here’s a guide to light and other types of emitted energy.
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PhysicsShape-shifting cuts give shoes a better grip
With pop-out structures inspired by kirigami and animals, a shoe sole goes from flat to spiky to boost friction on slippery surfaces such as ice.
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PhysicsA contrast between shadows and light can now generate electricity
A new device exploits the contrast between bright spots and shade to produce a current that can power small electronics.
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SpaceOldest disk galaxy puts a new spin on galaxy growth
A spinning disk galaxy has been found in the early universe. Its existence is a surprise.
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ChemistryScientists Say: Polymer
Polymers can be natural or man-made, but they are all big molecules made up of smaller units linked together.
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ChemistryWorking up a sweat may one day power up a device
Tech that turns sweat into power may make for greener gadgets. A new device uses perspiration to charge a supercapacitor and run a sensor.
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PlantsSilk-based microneedles may help treat diseased plants
Engineers have invented silk microneedles to inject medicines into plants. One day farmers might use drones to dart their sick plants with meds from the air.
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SpaceAstronauts may be able to make cement with their own pee
Lunar dust and a compound found in urine might one day be used to build future dwellings on the moon, a new study finds.
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ChemistryLet’s learn about colors
The colors we see come from electromagnetic waves traveling through space and hitting our eyes.
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PhysicsPhysicists foil classic oobleck science trick
Cornstarch and water — best known as oobleck — solidifies upon impact. Researchers used a new technique to make it stay liquid.
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SpaceScientists Say: Spaghettification
Black holes cram a lot of mass into a small area. When another object gets close, the black hole’s gravity can stretch it into a noodle-like strand.
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PhysicsScientists Say: Momentum
This word describes a property of a moving object based on its mass and the direction and speed of its motion.