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A new probability puzzle circulating on Reddit has sparked intrigue among math enthusiasts, reminiscent of the classic Monty Hall problem. The puzzle presents three boxes: one containing two gold balls, another two silver balls, and the last one a gold and a silver ball. After randomly selecting a box and drawing a gold ball, participants are asked to determine the probability that the next ball drawn from the same box will be silver. Many instinctively answer 50 percent, reasoning that only boxes A or B remain. However, the correct probability is actually 33 percent. This is due to the need to consider the three possible scenarios after drawing a gold ball, which include the remaining gold ball in box A and the silver ball in box B. This puzzle highlights the complexities of conditional probability, a concept that has even perplexed renowned mathematicians like Paul Erdős. 
Published: Sep 24 2025, 12 ameznews.inThe Barbados threadsnake (_Leptotyphlops carlae_), measuring just 10 centimeters (4 inches) and weighing around 0.6 grams, holds the Guinness World Record for the smallest snake in the world. Rediscovered in March after being lost to science for 20 years, this elusive species was found during an ecological survey, hidden under a rock. Justin Springer, a Caribbean program officer for Re:wild, expressed his astonishment at the find, highlighting the challenges of locating such a small and blind snake, which resembles the invasive Brahminy blind snake (_Indotyphlops braminus_). The Barbados threadsnake, which feeds on ants and termites, is classified as Critically Endangered by the IUCN, with its habitat severely threatened by deforestation, as 98 percent of the island's primary forests have been cleared over the past 500 years. 
Published: Sep 23 2025, 8 ameznews.inThe Michelson-Morley experiment, conducted in 1887, stands as a pivotal moment in the history of physics, aiming to detect the elusive luminiferous aether, a proposed medium for light waves. Building on earlier work, including Thomas Young's double-slit experiment, which revealed light's wave-like nature, Albert A. Michelson and Edward W. Morley sought to measure variations in light speed due to an "aether wind." Their ingenious setup involved sending light beams in different directions and analyzing interference patterns for discrepancies. However, the results were decidedly negative, with Michelson noting a maximum displacement far below expectations. This "failed" experiment ultimately provided crucial insights, challenging existing theories and paving the way for Einstein's theory of relativity. Despite its lack of success in detecting aether, the experiment's thoroughness and transparency have made it a cornerstone of modern physics, illustrating the importance of rigorous scientific inquiry. 
Published: Sep 26 2025, 11 pmeznews.inA groundbreaking review has revealed that animal cloning is a viable conservation tool, yet misconceptions hinder its broader application. Conducted by the wildlife conservation non-profit Revive & Restore, the study analyzed the cloning history of 56 species, finding that 90% meet or exceed their natural life expectancy, and 95% of those assessed for fertility are capable of reproduction. Despite the successful cloning of species like the black-footed ferret and Przewalski's horse, the technology has been largely underutilized due to limited case studies and a perception of cloning as a high-risk endeavor. Co-author Robert Wiese emphasized the need for strategic investment in cloning to enhance genetic diversity management. The findings challenge the narrative that cloning is experimental, showcasing its proven benefits for conservation and urging stakeholders to reconsider its potential for protecting endangered species. The study is published in the journal Animals. 
Published: Sep 27 2025, 12 ameznews.inUntil approximately 60,000 years ago, the Indonesian island of Flores was inhabited by a unique hominin species known as _Homo floresiensis_, or the Hobbit humans. Discovered in 2004, this species challenges the conventional understanding of human evolution, particularly the notion that brain size consistently increased over time. Despite co-existing with larger-brained hominins like Neanderthals and _Homo sapiens_, the Hobbits had brains about one-third the size of modern humans, comparable to that of a chimpanzee, yet they demonstrated tool-making and fire-using capabilities. Recent research focusing on their wisdom teeth suggests that these small molars indicate the Hobbits were on track to develop larger brains during gestation, with growth inhibition occurring postnatally. This phenomenon, linked to insular nanism and low levels of the growth factor IGF-1, may explain how _H. floresiensis_ evolved smaller bodies and brains without compromising cognitive function. The findings are detailed in the *Annals of Human Biology*. 
Published: Sep 26 2025, 10 pmeznews.inIn 1964, physicists Arno Allan Penzias and Robert Woodrow Wilson discovered a persistent hum in their radio telescope readings, initially attributing it to various terrestrial interferences, including pigeons nesting in the equipment. However, after ruling out these possibilities, they identified the noise as the cosmic microwave background (CMB), the faint radiation left over from the Big Bang, which permeates the universe. This groundbreaking realization provided crucial evidence for the Big Bang theory, earning them the Nobel Prize in Physics. Interestingly, the CMB can also be detected by those who grew up with analog televisions, where static between channels included remnants of this ancient radiation. In contrast, modern digital devices do not capture the CMB, meaning younger generations miss out on this unique connection to the universe's origins while channel surfing. 
Published: Sep 26 2025, 4 ameznews.inAstronomers have observed a striking color change in the interstellar object 3I/ATLAS, which shifted from red to green in recent weeks. Initially spotted in July 2025, this giant comet is only the third known interstellar visitor to our Solar System, following ʻOumuamua and Comet 2I/Borisov. The green hue is typically associated with diatomic carbon (C2) in a comet's coma, but 3I/ATLAS is noted for being carbon-chain depleted, suggesting other chemical processes may be at play. Harvard professor Avi Loeb posits that the color change could be linked to increased cyanide production observed in the coma. Weighing over 33 billion tons and measuring 5 kilometers in diameter, 3I/ATLAS presents a unique opportunity for scientific study, although observations will be limited as it moves behind the Sun later this year, with visibility expected to resume in December 2025. 
Published: Sep 26 2025, 8 pmeznews.inRecent viral posts have suggested that the "52-hertz whale," often dubbed the world's loneliest whale, has found companionship, but there is no new evidence to support this claim. The 52-hertz whale was first identified in 1989 by the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, which detected its unique call at a frequency much higher than that of any known whale species. Despite its solitary reputation, experts believe the whale may not be as isolated as previously thought; it could be recognized by other blue whales due to similarities in song structure. A 2021 documentary, _The Loneliest Whale: The Search for 52_, reignited interest in the creature, revealing a potential sighting of a blue-fin whale hybrid that might explain the unusual calls. While the idea of a "friend" remains unsubstantiated, the whale's story continues to captivate the public imagination. 
Published: Sep 26 2025, 6 pmeznews.inRecent scientific research suggests that many habits often deemed "bad" may actually be beneficial for health. For instance, skipping breakfast can aid weight loss through intermittent fasting, while moderate coffee consumption is linked to a reduced risk of certain cancers. Eggs, once vilified for their cholesterol content, are now recognized for their nutritional value. High-fat foods, previously avoided, are now recommended in moderation for their health benefits. Additionally, social media use has been shown to foster connections rather than harm mental health, and short, intense workouts can be as effective as longer sessions. Even energy drinks, when consumed in moderation, can be safe. Moderate alcohol consumption may also lower the risk of cognitive decline. Lastly, napping has been associated with health benefits, particularly for those sleep-deprived, challenging the stigma around these practices. 
Published: Sep 26 2025, 10 ameznews.inRecent viral posts have suggested that the "52 hertz whale," often dubbed the world's loneliest whale, has found companionship. However, this claim lacks new evidence and likely references a 2010 incident where sensors detected a similar whale call off California, indicating the possibility of multiple singing whales. The 52 hertz whale, first identified in 1989 by the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, emits a unique call at a frequency much higher than that of known whale species, leading to speculation about its identity, possibly as a hybrid. Despite its solitary reputation, experts like Christopher Clark from Cornell University suggest that the whale may not be as isolated as believed, as other whales can recognize its song. A 2021 documentary revealed a potential sighting of a blue-fin whale hybrid, hinting at a more complex social life for this enigmatic creature. 
Published: Sep 26 2025, 2 pmFor the fastest, latest, not so wokest news, 'experts say' you need to visit Eznews
