Physics

  1. Physics

    New pass at neutrino mass

    The first experiment to create neutrinos in an accelerator and then beam them a long distance has found a long-awaited, new form of evidence that those fundamental particles weigh something.

    By
  2. Physics

    Why the thinnest sticky hairs rule

    The foot hairs of geckos and other creatures that can walk on ceilings may be microscopic because only such slender hairs offer optimal adhesion, regardless of shape.

    By
  3. Physics

    Teleporting Matter’s Traits: Beaming information quantum-style

    Physicists have transferred a quantum state from one atom to another by manipulating a mysterious, atom-to-atom quantum link called entanglement.

    By
  4. Physics

    Squashed spheres set a record for filling space

    Modestly deformed spheres can stack with unexpected compactness.

    By
  5. Physics

    Corralling the Mass Maker: Hunting ground shifts for elusive particle

    Hunters of the most eagerly sought particle in high-energy physics, the Higgs boson, are gleaning fresh clues about where and how to look from a new finding about another fundamental particle called the top quark.

    By
  6. Physics

    Light Projects

    This colorful, interactive Web site provides a lively introduction to the nature of light and spectra. A product of Project LITE (Light Inquiry Through Experiments) at Boston University, the site offers a variety of applets, activities, and materials on topics ranging from color mixing and afterimage effects to moire patterns and geometrical optics. A fascinating […]

    By
  7. Materials Science

    Nice Threads

    Once researchers figure out how to spin strong fibers out of carbon nanotubes, real-world applications such as long-distance power-transmission cables, lightweight aircraft materials, and electronic textiles become feasible.

    By
  8. Materials Science

    Branching Out: Semiconducting nanotrees could boost electronics

    Forests of semiconducting nanotrees could form the basis of future solar cells, low-energy lighting, and other optical or microelectronic devices.

    By
  9. Physics

    Holey Water: Punctured fluid stays riddled

    Extreme vibrations and high concentrations of tiny particles, such as cornstarch, in water can create holes in the liquid.

    By
  10. Physics

    After 40-year prep, gravity test soars

    The Gravity Probe B satellite, which was built to test aspects of general relativity, finally hurtled into space.

    By
  11. Physics

    The Rise of Antibubbles

    Tiny globules of water enclosed by thin shells of air in water that look like bubbles but don't act like them have recently become the objects of serious study.

    By
  12. Materials Science

    Next High-Tech Polishing Fluid: Tea—A new brew for the computer industry

    A concoction based on green tea may speed up manufacturing of precision components for computer hard-disk drives while reducing toxic wastes.

    By