Physics
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Math
Do subatomic particles have free will?
Math Trek: If we have free will, so do subatomic particles, mathematicians claim to prove.
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Physics
Stars ablaze in other skies
A new study suggests that a surprising number of universes, even those with laws of physics different from those in our universe, can still support stars.
By Ron Cowen -
Physics
Invisible hand, and a quick one at that
God doesn’t play dice, Einstein said in his critique of quantum theory. But any alternative theory to quantum mechanics would require certain quantum events to influence each other 10,000 times faster than the speed of light, physicists have shown.
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Physics
Invisibility within sight
Two new studies take steps toward practical materials that can bend light backward, which could lead to invisibility cloaks.
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Physics
Carbon tubes, but not nano
Trying to grow better, longer nanotubes, researchers accidentally discover a new type of carbon filament, colossal carbon tubes, which are tens of thousands of times thicker.
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Math
Welcome to the Quantum Internet
Quantum encryption is here, but the laws of physics can do much more than protect privacy.
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Chemistry
Small steps toward big energy gains
New studies with different fuel cell catalysts show promising results.
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Computing
Building ‘The Matrix’
Simulating new materials could help in building them — but only quantum simulators could fully model reality. A team reports a first step in realizing quantum simulation.
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Chemistry
Oil magnets
Featured blog: Nanomagnets and wires point to a potentially better mousetrap — or crude trap — for dealing with oil spills.
By Janet Raloff -
Physics
Watching the northern lights form
Scientists may have solved the mystery of what triggers the events that spark the northern and southern lights.
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Chemistry
Quantum physics makes water different
The length of bonds connecting water molecules could demonstrate quantum effects and help explain some of water’s weirdness.