All Stories
- Science & Society
Scientists find the intrigue in Earth’s dullest times
New methods, coupled with new attitudes, are revising ideas about Earth's boring billion.
By Eva Emerson - Science & Society
Quantum spookiness, magnetic mysteries and more feedback
Letters and comments from readers on quantum spookiness, Earth's magnetic field, and more.
- Particle Physics
Antiprotons match protons in response to strong nuclear force
The first study of how antiprotons interact with each other reveals yet again that particles of antimatter behave just like their ordinary matter counterparts.
By Andrew Grant - Neuroscience
Brain’s GPS cells map time and distance, not just location
Brain’s GPS cells map time and distance, too.
- Neuroscience
Blood exerts a powerful influence on the brain
Instead of just responding to the energy needs of neurons, the blood can have a direct and powerful influence on the brain.
- Astronomy
Nearby galaxies put a lens on hundreds of distant ones
Cache of faint galaxies in early universe discovered with help from massive galaxy clusters a bit closer to home.
- Animals
Color of light sets dung beetles straight
Dung beetles may rely on green and ultraviolet colors in the sky to help orient themselves.
By Susan Milius - Paleontology
Ancient larvae built predator-thwarting mazes
Mazelike tunnels built by ancient insect larvae offered protection from predators, paleontologists propose.
- Animals
Diagram captures microbes’ influence across animal kingdom
A network diagram of animal species shows that many microbes living in humans also make themselves at home in dogs, pigs and cattle.
By Meghan Rosen - Earth
New recipe for diamonds: Just add acid
Rises in acidity during interactions between rocks and water in Earth’s interior can spark diamond formation, simulations show.
- Earth
New recipe for diamonds: Just add acid
Simulating the chemistry, pressures and temperatures in Earth’s interior, scientists have discovered a new way diamonds can form.
- Animals
Hunchbacked conchs jump at the smell of danger
Hunchbacked conchs are among the most vigorous of snailkind’s few jumpers.
By Susan Milius