Phys.org news
Phys.org / What a toothless, two-legged crocodile cousin reveals about life before dinosaurs dominated
In the Triassic, the modern animals we know were just beginning to diversify into a menagerie of forms and body plans that rhyme with the lifestyles of extinct and living animals better known to the public, but nested in ...
Phys.org / Spider silk-inspired process turns corn protein into tougher plastic-like material
When it comes to technology and innovation, we have a lot to thank Mother Nature for. Learning from the natural world has led to a range of useful products, including Velcro, self-cleaning paint, and ultra-strong body armor. ...
Phys.org / Mercury's water ice may have been deposited by a larger, slower impactor than previously thought—in only one day
The source of the significant water ice deposits hidden in Mercury's polar regions has been a topic of debate among researchers. A new study, published in the Journal of Geophysical Research: Planets, suggests that these ...
Phys.org / Triply-eclipsing triple star system discovered with TESS
Using NASA's Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite (TESS), astronomers have discovered a triply-eclipsing star system. The newfound system, designated TIC 295741342, consists of two sun-like stars in an eclipsing binary and ...
Phys.org / Nearly 50 years of data reveal happiness gap for single parents
Single parents are less happy than parents with a partner, according to a comprehensive analysis of global studies spanning nearly 50 years of data. With the number of solo caregivers on the rise in many countries, scientists ...
Phys.org / Polymer strategy boosts lithium battery safety and performance by making plasticizers compatible
The performance and safety profile of lithium batteries has improved immensely over the years, but new technologies are constantly demanding even better performance and increased safety demands due to higher energy densities. ...
Phys.org / Divers may think they protect reefs, but one unseen habit is taking a steady toll
Research at the University of Sydney has found that scuba-diving tourism—widely promoted as a sustainable way to experience coral reefs—is causing frequent and often hidden damage to fragile marine ecosystems.
Dialog / New fossil salamander species related to the famous axolotl is discovered in Mexico
The Mexican axolotl (Ambystoma mexicanum) is famous because adults look like overgrown babies, or tadpoles, retaining juvenile features as adults and capable of remarkable regeneration of lost limbs or tails. New studies ...
Phys.org / Five-tea comparison reveals kombucha's biological properties depend on starting point
Over the past few years, kombucha has become one of the world's most popular fermented beverages. While most consumers focus primarily on its taste, scientists are increasingly analyzing its chemical composition and potential ...
Phys.org / How did we learn which plants are safe to eat? Food scientists explain
Have you ever eaten a green potato, or a bunch of rhubarb leaves? Hopefully not, because these two plant parts can be toxic to humans. While they may seem edible, they contain chemicals that can make you seriously ill.
Phys.org / How homing pigeons keep navigation simple when winging their way home together
When it comes to flocking together, homing pigeons use a simple strategy to find better ways home, according to a recent report. The study, published in the journal eLife, suggests that homing pigeons use simple route averaging ...
Phys.org / Researchers capture inception of hydrogen-uranium reaction for the first time
When hydrogen gas interacts with uranium metal, the combination creates a chemically reactive powder and a runaway reaction that is difficult to stop. The result can impact the safety and lifespan of technology critical for ...