Earth experienced a surge in greenery in 2020 The year 2020 marked the greenest year in nearly two decades. While the COVID-19 pandemic’s reduced human activity slightly boosted vegetation, the primary drivers were increased carbon dioxide, warmer climates and reforestation projects, notably in China and India. Full Story: Earth Ancient cannibalism found in cave An […]
Widespread decline in genetic diversity Genetic diversity is declining among a wide range of species, including some not considered threatened, due to factors such as climate change and habitat loss. Genetic diversity declines were found in two-thirds of 628 species of birds, mammals, bony fish and flowering plants studied, threatening the species’ resilience and ability […]
Universe’s rapid expansion challenges existing physics Scientists have confirmed that the universe is expanding at a rate faster than current physics models can explain, based on precise measurements of the Coma galaxy cluster. This discrepancy, known as the Hubble tension, presents a significant challenge in cosmology as different methods yield conflicting expansion rates. ScienceAlert Coral […]
Quantum entanglement found inside protons for first time Researchers have observed quantum entanglement within protons, where quarks and gluons are entangled, allowing them to share information across the proton. This breakthrough, reported by Brookhaven National Laboratory, alters the understanding of proton structure and could provide new insights into fundamental particles. Full Story: Live Science Snow […]
Mathematical model suggests third particle type Physicists have proposed the mathematical possibility of a third type of particle, paraparticles, which could exist alongside fermions and bosons. This discovery suggests that these particles might behave like anyons in a three-dimensional universe, challenging the current understanding of the Standard Model. Full Story: ScienceAlert Neurotransmitter response to emotional […]
The carbon impact of permafrost thawing Researchers have developed a model to assess permafrost thawing’s impact on carbon release. The study suggests that while thawing could release substantial carbon, only a fraction will reach the atmosphere by 2100, but this thawing still presents a significant challenge for climate mitigation efforts. Full Story: PhysOrg Rare neuron […]
Climate change could drive mass extinctions by 2100 A new study warns that nearly one-third of Earth’s species could face extinction by 2100 if global temperatures rise 1.5 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels, surpassing the Paris Agreement target. The study emphasizes the urgent need for policymakers to limit greenhouse gas emissions to prevent accelerated extinction […]
Breakthrough reveals single photon shape for first time In a groundbreaking study, scientists have visualized the shape of a single photon for the first time, a development that could transform material science and quantum physics. “The geometry and optical properties of the environment have profound consequences for how photons are emitted, including defining the photons’ […]
Young exoplanet offers insights into planetary formation TIDYE-1 b, a newly discovered exoplanet orbiting the young star IRAS 04125+2902, offers a glimpse into early planetary development. Situated 520 light-years from Earth, this planet is wrapped in a protoplanetary disk and is expected to evolve into a sub-Neptune. Full Story: Astronomy Human Cell Atlas makes progress […]
Immigrating birds adapt quickly through social learning Great tits demonstrate social learning by adopting new behaviors from resident birds when they immigrate to a new environment. Researchers used puzzle boxes to show that 80% of immigrant birds quickly adopted the resident birds’ methods for obtaining food, underscoring the importance of social learning in animal behaviour […]