Physics
We summarize the week's scientific breakthroughs every Thursday.
- Materials Science
New technique shows how 2-D thin films take the heat
A new method exposes how 2-D materials react when heated, which could help engineers build sturdy next-gen electronics.
- Physics
5 ways the heaviest element on the periodic table is really bizarre
Called oganesson, element 118 has some very strange properties, according to theoretical calculations by physicists.
- Materials Science
Smart windows could block brightness and harness light
A new type of material pulls double-duty as window shade and solar cell.
- Physics
50 years on, nuclear fusion still hasn’t delivered clean energy
In 1968, scientists predicted that the world would soon use nuclear fusion as an energy source.
- Astronomy
Readers ask about supernovas, dark energy and more
Readers had questions about a supernova that continuously erupts, the difference between dark energy and dark matter, and more.
- Materials Science
Skyrmions open a door to next-level data storage
Skyrmions are tiny magnetic swirls that are hard to undo and may be perfect for miniaturizing electronics.
- Materials Science
Superdense wood is lightweight, but strong as steel
New superdense wood could be a more lightweight, environmentally friendly alternative to current construction materials.
- Physics
Laser experiment hints at weird in-between ice
Scientists spot signs of an unusual phase of water called superionic ice.
- Materials Science
New textile weathers temperature shift
Reversible textile keeps skin at a comfortable temperature with thin layers of carbon and copper.
- Tech
New laser emits a more stable, energy-efficient light beam
A new type of laser could emit more stable, energy-efficient light beams than its conventional counterparts.
- Physics
Gravity doesn’t leak into large, hidden dimensions
Gravitational waves from a recently observed neutron star merger offer no evidence of large, unknown dimensions.
- Astronomy
Universes with no weak force might still have stars and life
An alternate universe that lacks one of the four fundamental forces might still have galaxies, stars, planets and perhaps life, a new study suggests.
