Science
Scientific discoveries and research
Major gap in Earth's rock record likely due to tectonics—not glaciers
The Great Unconformity is a major gap in Earth's geologic record. The missing layer between Precambrian and Cambrian rocks represents a gap of around a billion...
Physicists watch light drift in quantized steps for the first time
In physics, the classical "Hall effect," discovered in the late 19th century, describes how a transverse voltage is generated when an electric current is expose...
AI develops easily understandable solutions for unusual experiments in quantum physics
Researchers at the University of Tuebingen, working with an international team, have developed an artificial intelligence that designs entirely new, sometimes u...
Ice Age erosion may explain Appalachians' smoother northern peaks
Hike north on the Appalachian Trail and the scenery slowly transforms. Rugged, steep ridgelines in Tennessee and Virginia soften into the broad summits and smoo...
Lasers and drones assess health of world forests and help track climate change
Highly detailed 3D scans of dense tropical rain forest plots are enabling precise estimates of tree structure, volume and stored carbon, as part of a first-of-i...
How AI can improve the quality of peer review
A new AI coach for scientists has been shown to significantly improve the quality of peer reviews, making them clearer and more helpful for authors. Peer review...
Why do female caribou have antlers? Arctic study points to nutrition
Biologists have long wondered why caribou are the only deer in the world in which females—like males—have antlers. A study of shed antlers collected from calvin...
Are there aliens broadcasting from Hycean world K2-18b? Astronomers just listened in
If you've been following exoplanet research over the last couple of years, you've definitely heard of K2-18b. Located 124 light years away in the constellation...
Animals' perception of time is linked to the pace of their life
As you read this, the screen is probably flashing over 240 times per second, yet, as a human, you won't notice this flickering light. However, to a fruit fly ho...
Funding climate projects: Our financial model can better illustrate long-term value
When deciding whether to invest in environmental projects, it's important to consider the economic value of any long-term benefits. Whether climate solutions (s...
Surprise solar eruptions on sun's far side validate new forecasting method
A team of scientists from around the world has created the first system that can predict when and where extremely powerful solar storms, called superflares, are...
Nine-city study finds richer neighborhoods get more sidewalk shade
One of the best forms of heat relief is pretty simple: trees. In cities, as studies have documented, more tree cover lowers surface temperatures and heat-relate...