All Stories by Emily Conover
- Physics
The sound of clapping, explained by physics
The “Helmholtz resonator” concept explains the frequencies of sound produced by clapping the hands together in different configurations.
- Physics
Squishy materials reveal new physics of static electricity
The charge transferred when identical objects touch depends on their history, scientists find.
- Quantum Physics
Quantum mechanics was born 100 years ago. Physicists are celebrating
Quantum physics underlies technologies from the laser to the smartphone. The International Year of Quantum marks a century of scientific developments.
- Particle Physics
A tiny neutrino detector scored big at a nuclear reactor
A compact method of detecting neutrinos provides new tests of physics theories and could lead to new reactor-monitoring methods.
- Science & Society
What nuclear weapons experts will watch for under Trump
As Trump takes office, issues of arms control, the U.S. arsenal and weapons testing will be on the radar for many nuclear weapons researchers.
- Physics
Hula-hooping robots reveal the physics behind keeping rings aloft
The gyrations of hoop-slinging robots reveal that hourglass-shaped objects are best at keeping a hoop in the air.
- Particle Physics
Cosmic rays could help reveal how tornadoes form
Subatomic particles called muons could measure pressure changes in supercell thunderstorms and the twisters they kick up.
- Particle Physics
A major new neutrino experiment is nearing completion
The JUNO experiment, which will study the ways of the electrically neutral subatomic particles, will be the largest of its kind.
- Physics
Fiber friction is the key to cozy knits
Friction between loops of yarn give knit fabrics the ability to take on a variety of shapes even when no force is applied.
- Particle Physics
Scientists are building underwater neutrino telescopes in the Mediterranean
The KM3NeT telescopes, currently under construction, will catch high-energy neutrinos that could reveal secrets of the cosmos.
- Physics
Eyelashes’ special features help fling water from the eyes
Eyelashes “micro-ratchet” structure and curved shape help wick water away from the eyes.
- Materials Science
Scotch tape is key to creating thin films of diamond
The sticky stuff helped peel sheets of diamond less than a micrometer thick off silicon wafers, creating membranes useful for electronic devices.
