Phys.org news

Phys.org / Webb reveals double helium tails escaping from a 'hot Jupiter'

For the first time, scientists have continuously monitored a planet's escaping atmosphere over a complete orbit, revealing that the gas giant WASP-121 b is surrounded by not one but two massive helium tails stretching more ...

3 hours ago in Astronomy & Space
Phys.org / Reconfigurable platform slows lights for on-chip photonic engineering

Integrated circuits are the brains behind modern electronic devices like computers or smart phones. Traditionally, these circuits—also known as chips—rely on electricity to process data. In recent years, scientists have ...

3 hours ago in Physics
Phys.org / Greenhouse gases projected to sharply increase extreme flooding in Central Himalayas

Rising greenhouse gas emissions could see the size of extreme floods in the Central Himalayas increase by between as much as 73% and 84% by the end of this century.

3 hours ago in Earth
Phys.org / An ancient genetic switch that lets plants grow, adapt and survive

A team of scientists from Monash University has identified a single gene in a land plant that could help explain how plants first evolved the ability to grow continuously, a key trait that allowed them to colonize dry land ...

3 hours ago in Biology
Phys.org / Towards sustainable organic synthesis—mechanochemistry replaces lithium with sodium in organic reactions

Highly reactive organometallic reagents, like organolithiums (molecules with a carbon–lithium bond) are essential reagents in organic synthesis because of their applications from polymer synthesis to pharmaceuticals, and ...

3 hours ago in Chemistry
Phys.org / Helping crops survive in saltwater: Mangroves reveal key cellular traits

Rising sea levels along coastlines not only threaten populations, but also pose a danger to agricultural crops, which may be damaged by surging amounts of saltwater. Researchers have, in response, sought to improve salt-tolerance ...

3 hours ago in Biology
Phys.org / Unexpected protein fold links bacteria, viruses, and eukaryotes in DNA management

An investigation into cellular components in bacteria has unexpectedly uncovered a feature with relevance across many life forms, paving the way for diverse research, biotechnical and medical applications.

4 hours ago in Biology
Phys.org / When climate risk hits home, people listen: Local details can enhance disaster preparedness messaging

A subtle change in how climate risk is communicated—mentioning a person's local area—can significantly increase attention to disaster preparedness messages, according to a new study by researchers at the Stockholm School ...

9 hours ago in Earth
Phys.org / Temporary carbon removals can offset methane's short-term warming impact

Carbon removal projects could prove vital in offsetting methane emissions—the second largest contributor to global warming.

4 hours ago in Earth
Phys.org / When companies 'go green,' air quality impacts can vary dramatically

Many organizations are taking actions to shrink their carbon footprint, such as purchasing electricity from renewable sources or reducing air travel. Both actions would cut greenhouse gas emissions, but which offers greater ...

4 hours ago in Earth
Phys.org / Hydrogel switches from liquid to gel at body temperature, enabling easy removal

What if a doctor could inject an electricity-conducting liquid into the body, let it temporarily solidify to record nerve signals or jump-start healing, and then return it to liquid form for easy removal?

4 hours ago in Chemistry
Phys.org / DNA nanostructures get an ionic 'protective suit' for harsh biological environments

DNA nanostructures are exciting new biomedical tools with myriad potential in treatment, diagnosis and disease prevention. Made of folded DNA, these nanostructures are highly programmable and have been used in bioengineering ...

4 hours ago in Nanotechnology