LHC broke the atom smashing record
After a two-year hiatus during which it was extensively upgraded, the Large Hadron Collider (LHC) has broken the record for smashing together sub-atomic particles. The LHC is now capable of reaching energies twice as high as it previously could, which scientists believe will open the door to realms of physics humanity has yet to explore. In the years to come, the study of hidden dimensions and dark matter is the main target for CERN’s researchers.
Infections can lower your IQ
A study has shown that there is a clear correlation between infection levels and cognitive impairment. Researchers found that all types of serious infection, not just those that affected the brain, lowered an
individual’s IQ. By discovering this link, scientists hope to learn more about the connection between the immune system and the development of mental disorders.
Bacteria help repair damaged siblings
An interesting discovery has been made which suggests that certain soil bacteria can help repair other bacteria that are damaged. This is possible due to the process of outer membrane exchange (OME), which is commonplace within the social behaviour of soil bacteria. This is the first time evidence of this activity has been seen, and it can be compared to the way cells in a human body adapt to heal a wound.
Drugs can be found in fingerprints
Using a new technique, scientists have found a way to identify cocaine use from a single fingerprint. This method determines whether the owner of the fingerprint has taken cocaine, rather than just identifying whether they have come into contact with the Class A drug. This was achieved by testing for cocaine metabolites such as benzoylecgonine and methylecgonine. Researchers are hopeful that this technique will have a wide range of applications in drug testing, as it is much more difficult to fake results.
Space debris will be shot with laser cannons
In 2017 scientists plan to begin the test phase of a laser cannon on the ISS that would be used to shoot down space debris. There are roughly 22,000 known objects in orbit that could threaten new and existing space missions, which could make this tool very useful in the future.
There’s a new trigger for volcanic eruptions
Scientists believe they have taken a vital step in furthering their understanding of volcanic activity. By creating a scaled down volcano, researchers examined how magma rises from great depths to the surface via a multitude of fractures known as dykes and sills. They found that a pressure drop occurred when a sill formed, which they believe can cause dissolved gases to be released, resulting in
the magma exploding and an eruption taking place.
A levitating bulb stays lit for 22 years
This incredible levitating lightbulb works using magnets and can be operated by simply touching its wooden base. It draws power wirelessly from the charger block that it floats above via a process known as induction. If the bulb is used for around six hours a day, it will have a lifetime of 22 years, and will endlessly levitate above the charger block to keep going.
There’s a jet-propelled paddleboard
Paddleboarding has been gaining popularity for a while, and now inventors have created a version that makes this fun hobby even more relaxing. The built-in jet propulsion engine will push the paddleboard along at up to 3.5 knots, around 6.5 kilometres (four miles) per hour, enabling users to enjoy the view without working up a sweat.
Salmon ears contain GPS trackers
By analysing a tiny structure that grows inside their ears, scientists have been able to map the journeys of hundreds of Chinook salmon. This bone-like structure is called an otolith, which form in layers as a salmon matures. As these layers form, they trap tiny amounts of isotopes that can be traced to specific areas. Scientists hope to use this data to pinpoint where salmon migrate to, so that
these areas can be protected from pollution and over-fishing too.
A teabag can change light lager into craft beer
If you have ever dreamt of customising your favourite alcoholic beverage, you may not have to wait much longer. A company called Hop Theory has created a type of teabag that turns standard lager into craft beer in a matter of minutes. It aims to provide the intense flavour of craft beer without the high cost and the calories, with each bag capable of flavouring four beers.
No comments:
Post a Comment