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May 3, 2024
This week, Science Friday is in Ames, Iowa, home to prairies, greater prairie chickens, and an array of wildlife. Plus, the co-emergence of two periodical cicada broods is underway. Scientists have tips for how to experience the event. And, as the “Universe of Art” podcast turns one, listeners discuss solar music boxes and what it’s like making art with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome.
8:27
Citizen Scientists Will Capture DNA From 800 Lakes In One Day
The project aims to find species that have gone unnoticed by sampling the waters of hundreds of lakes worldwide for environmental DNA.
16:35
What Worsening Floods Mean For Superfund Sites
Superfund sites contain extreme pollution. Flooding—made worse by climate change—could carry their toxic contaminants into surrounding areas.
12:18
EPA Sets Limits On ‘Forever Chemicals’ In Drinking Water
A long-awaited rule from the EPA limits the amounts of six PFAS chemicals allowed in public drinking water supplies.
15:16
The Brain’s Glial Cells Might Be As Important As Neurons
These lesser-known nervous system cells were long thought to be the “glue” holding neurons together. They’re much more.
10:42
Where Snowpack Meets Soil: An Important Winter Home For Bugs
Some spiders, beetles, and centipedes spend winter under snow in a layer called the subnivium. Climate change could threaten this habitat.
1:32
Drumroll Please! A Performance For The Solar Eclipse
A local percussion section in Akron, Ohio, performed a drumroll for the solar eclipse.
7:35
The Carbon Cost Of Urban Gardens And Commercial Farms
Some food has a larger carbon footprint when grown in urban settings than on commercial farms, while for other foods the reverse is true.
9:55
Why There Won’t Be A Superbloom This Year
What’s the difference between wildflowers blooming in the desert each spring, and the rare phenomenon of a “superbloom”?
16:21
A Cheer For The Physics Of Baseball
When you watch a baseball game, you’re also enjoying a spectacular display of science—from physics to biomechanics.
17:21
Inside The Race To Save Honeybees From Parasitic Mites
Varroa destructor mites are killing honeybees and their babies at alarming rates.