An artificial cell eats, grows, and reproduces. Is it alive?
Researchers have engineered an artificial cell, hoping to build a customizable chassis for chemical production.
That chlorine smell at the pool? It’s pee
The chlorine in swimming pools reacts with our urine and sweat, producing volatile chemicals that are potentially harmful to breathe.
How New Jersey tamped down PFAS in drinking water
In 2018, New Jersey began limiting PFAS “forever chemicals” in drinking water. Levels of the regulated chemicals have dropped as much as 55%.
Can algae help pull microplastics out of our water supply?
Microplastics are everywhere, including in our water. One scientist wants wastewater plants to put bioengineered algae to work for a cleanup.
Einstein’s real breakthrough? Quantum theory
In honor of Einstein’s birthday, we’re revisiting a 2013 conversation with physicist and author A. Douglas Stone about quantum theory.
The Surprising Science Of Why Sneakers Squeak
The forces that cause sneakers to squeak also create mini-earthquakes (shoe-quakes, if you will) and tiny lightning bolts.
The Evolution Of An Enzyme Engineer Who Changed Chemistry
Frances Arnold’s game-changing technique of “directed evolution” creates enzymes with unusual capabilities. Her own evolution made it possible.
Jump, Spin, Glide: The Science Of Figure Skating
What’s the secret to landing a quadruple lutz, or speeding your death spiral? A figure skating researcher weighs in.
Who Wants To Smell An Ancient Embalmed Mummy?
Chemists and perfumers are using new techniques to bring ancient scents back to life, from mummies to a 5,000-year-old incense burner.
The Largest US Particle Collider Stops Its Collisions
The Relativistic Heavy Ion Collider, or RHIC, has ceased operation. What’s next for particle physics?