Notebook

Physics

50 years ago, scientists were on a quest for quarks

In the 1970s, physicists confirmed particles called quarks existed. Fifty years later, many kinds of quarks in many combinations have been discovered.

Animals

50 years ago, scientists made the case for a landlubbing Brontosaurus

In 1971, a scientist argued for a landbound Brontosaurus instead of a swampy swimmer. Recent evidence comes from studies of its ancient environment.

Math

How one physicist is unraveling the mathematics of knitting

Understanding how knots influence textile properties could lead to bespoke materials.

Physics

50 years ago, scientists poked holes in the existence of polywater

In 1971, scientists were casting doubt on an anomalous form of water. Fifty years later, water’s odd properties are still mysterious.

Plants

Rats with poisonous hairdos live surprisingly sociable private lives

Deadly, swaggering rodents purr and snuggle when they’re with mates and young.

Health & Medicine

50 years ago, urea showed promise as a sickle-cell treatment

In 1970, scientists found the first treatment for sickle-cell disease. 50 years later, they’re trying to cure it with CRISPR.

Planetary Science

50 years ago, scientists caught their first glimpse of amino acids from outer space

In 1970, scientists detected amino acids in a meteorite. Fifty years later, a variety of chemical ingredients for life have been found in other space rocks.

Animals

A face mask may turn up a male wrinkle-faced bat’s sex appeal

The first-ever scientific observations of a wrinkle-faced bat’s courtship shows that, when flirting, the males raise their white furry face coverings.

Earth

50 years ago, scientists named Earth’s magnetic field as a suspect in extinctions

In 1970, researchers saw a link between magnetic pole reversals and extinctions. Fifty years later, scientists have uncovered more suggestive examples but no strong evidence of a direct link.lamb

Microbes

50 years ago, scientists suspected microbes flourished in clouds

In 1970, scientists presented early evidence that microbes in clouds may be alive and kicking.

Animals

Why bat scientists are socially distancing from their subjects

Scientists are calling for a “hands-off” approach to research to decrease the chances of spreading the coronavirus to bats in North America.

Earth

50 years ago, scientists were looking for ways to predict earthquakes

Though earthquake prediction remains elusive, early warning systems can help keep people safe.