Talk Like A Spider Using Sound And Secret Codes
Discover how spiders communicate through vibrations and dance. Then, create a cipher to “talk” like a spider using your own tap code language.
Test Your Taste Receptors With Spicy Treats
Discover the science behind foods that make your tongue tingle. Experiment with spiced beverages that activate your mouth’s TRP receptors.
8:08
The Science Behind Your Unraveling Sweaters
A textile professor and knit expert explains why many sweaters today are of poorer quality than sweaters in the past.
The Best Of Science Friday, 2023
This year science reached new frontiers, and our coverage followed suit. Our staff—and audience—share their favorite SciFri creations of 2023.
7:49
Flame Retardant Could Be Made From Discarded Cocoa Husks
Scientists are using leftover cocoa husks to extract lignin, an organic polymer that can become flame retardant, foam, or a straw.
9:02
The Oozy Physics Of Oobleck
Non-Newtonian fluids challenge our ideas of what’s liquid and what’s solid. We now have a better understanding of how they work.
Experiment With Fluid Physics In Your Kitchen
Experiment with non-Newtonian fluids, like ketchup and Oobleck, to determine how they react to shear stress.
The Science Of Sweaters: Chemistry In Your Closet
What is your favorite sweater made from? Investigate textiles and discover the different characteristics of common materials.
12:17
An mRNA Advance Wins A Nobel Prize
Other awards went to advances in quantum dots, and timing super-fast electron pulses.
8:52
Is The Plastic In Your Old Barbie Toxic?
The Barbie movie updated Barbie’s image for today’s world. But if your Barbie doll was made before 2007, her plastic body might not be safe for kids.