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Math

Rolling with Reuleaux

Have you ever wondered why the cover of a manhole is nearly always round? Why isn’t it oval or square? Reuleaux curve based on an equilateral triangle. Reuleaux curves based on the pentagon (top) and heptagon (bottom). The usual answer is that a circular lid, unlike a square or an oval cover, won’t fall through […]

Materials Science

Molecular Memory: Carbon-nanotube device stores data in molecules

Scientists have created a memory device in which data are encoded in switching molecules called catenanes that are attached to a carbon nanotube.

Physics

One-Atom Laser: Trapped atom shoots steady light beam

A single, ultracold cesium atom sandwiched between two mirrors yields the most orderly beam of laser light ever.