Phys.org news

Phys.org / Only 10 viral particles cause H5N1 avian flu infection in cows

Just 10 viral particles of the H5N1 bird flu that caused hundreds of influenza outbreaks in U.S. dairy cattle can cause infection in cows, a new study shows. The research also hints at why the outbreaks have confounded scientists, ...

23 hours ago
Phys.org / Northern permafrost switches from carbon sink to carbon source earlier than thought in models including deep soil carbon

The Arctic and northern high latitudes are warming about 2–4 times faster than the global average, allowing ancient permafrost to thaw and release stored carbon. These permafrost soils currently store roughly one-third of ...

Jun 15, 2026
Phys.org / Passive quantum error correction doubles qubit lifetime, reaching break-even point

A team of U.S. researchers has designed a passive quantum error correction technique that enables qubits to correct their own errors. Demonstrated by Shruti Shirol and colleagues at the University of Massachusetts Amherst, ...

Jun 15, 2026
Phys.org / Medieval Moroccan bathhouse steps reveal rare game board

Archaeologists have discovered a game board carved into the steps of a medieval bathhouse in the Moroccan town of Walīla (the Roman city of Volubilis). The find is a rare example of a medieval game board that can be securely ...

Jun 15, 2026
Phys.org / Think you'd never eat bugs? Research says you might—and you may even like it

People who are hesitant to try insect-based foods may enjoy the experience more than they expect—and can become more open to expanding their diets in the future, according to research published by the American Psychological ...

Jun 15, 2026
Phys.org / Abstract algebra unlocks distinguishable states for quantum systems

Researchers around the world are racing to develop new quantum-based systems for sensing, communication, computing and control that have the promise of outperforming traditional systems. Creating stable, measurable, distinguishable ...

Jun 15, 2026
Phys.org / Deep-sea crust uncovers steady plutonium rain from ancient kilonova debris

Debris is still raining down on Earth more than 100 million years after the giant cosmic explosion that created it. A study published this week in Nature Astronomy by an international team reached this conclusion using measurements ...

Jun 15, 2026
Phys.org / Quasi-1D material unlocks electric control of charge waves beyond standard limits

The ability to control the movement of negatively charged particles (i.e., electrons) is central to the functioning of all modern electronic devices. This control is typically attained using a gate, an electrode via which ...

Jun 15, 2026
Phys.org / Thermochemical mantle plume identified as the likely origin of Earth's largest oceanic plateau

The Ontong Java Plateau in the western Pacific Ocean is the largest oceanic plateau on Earth, and its formation mechanism has not been well understood.

Jun 15, 2026
Phys.org / Climate change reshapes Spain's rockfall risk as frost weathering moves uphill

Climate change is altering where and when rocks are most likely to fracture across Spain, according to new research that suggests warming temperatures are redistributing a key process responsible for breaking down mountain ...

Jun 15, 2026
Phys.org / Most precise measurement of the force that binds nuclear matter achieved

Trinity's Prof. Stefan Sint, along with collaborators from Germany, Spain and Italy, has published the most precise determination to date of the strong coupling constant. This parameter governs the interactions between quarks ...

Jun 15, 2026
Phys.org / Lithium spike reveals sun-like star likely swallowed its planet

A team of astronomers, led by Brooke Kotten of the University of Michigan, has shown that TOI-5882—a sunlike star located some 1,300 light-years away—has likely eaten one of its planets.

Jun 15, 2026