Trending Science

Listen as Radio

Man Uses Google Maps to Prove Earth Isn't Flat

In a viral Reddit post, Greg Pagel effectively countered flat-Earther claims about the horizon appearing flat by using Google Maps and a photograph of his hometown. He calculated the distance between two land points on the horizon, which measured 13.5 kilometers (8.4 miles). Given the Earth's circumference of approximately 24,140 kilometers (25,000 miles), Pagel determined that the expected curvature at that distance would be around 0.12 degrees—too subtle to be perceived by the naked eye. This experiment highlights that the horizon appears flat not because the Earth is flat, but due to its immense size. Pagel's findings echo long-standing arguments against flat-Earth theories, including the observable phenomenon of boats disappearing below the horizon. His post serves as a reminder that simple observations and calculations can debunk pseudoscientific claims. sources

Published:
Nov 21 2024, 3 pm

Why Is Earth's Magnetic North Pole Shifting Eastward?

Earth's magnetic north pole is on the move, drifting eastward at an accelerating rate due to the dynamics of molten metal in the planet's outer core. Since the 1830s, it has shifted approximately 2,250 kilometers from Canada towards Siberia, with its movement increasing from under 15 kilometers per year to around 50-60 kilometers annually between 1990 and 2005. If this trend continues, the pole could advance another 660 kilometers towards Siberia in the next decade, potentially causing compasses to point east of true north by 2040. Meanwhile, the south magnetic pole is also drifting eastward over Antarctica. While such shifts are significant, they are part of a natural cycle, with complete pole reversals occurring every 300,000 years on average. Scientists are monitoring these changes closely, as they may affect GPS and satellite navigation systems, although daily life remains largely unaffected. sources

Published:
Nov 18 2024, 9 pm

Why Did Earth's Inner Core Freeze?

Scientists continue to unravel the mysteries of the Earth's inner core, located over 5,100 kilometers beneath the surface, primarily through seismic wave analysis. Despite extensive exploration, the core's transition from a molten state to solid remains poorly understood. Alfred Wilson-Spencer, a research fellow at the University of Leeds, highlights that while the inner core is extremely hot, reaching at least 5,000 Kelvin, its solidification process is complex. Traditional models suggest that supercooling of the liquid iron is necessary for solidification, but recent simulations indicate that the presence of elements like carbon could allow for solidification with less supercooling, potentially under 400 Kelvin. This new perspective could significantly alter estimates of the inner core's age, suggesting it may be several hundred million years younger than previously thought. The study, currently awaiting peer review, raises important questions about the core's formation and its implications for understanding Earth's magnetic field. sources

Published:
Nov 21 2024, 9 pm

"See Unique Footage of 'Giant' Virus Infecting Cell"

Researchers at the Tokyo University of Science have made a significant breakthrough by capturing the first-ever footage of a giant virus, known as *Mimivirus*, infecting the amoeba *Acanthamoeba castellanii*. This innovative study, led by Professor Masaharu Takemura, utilized light microscopy to visualize the infection process in real time, overcoming challenges posed by the small size of most viruses and the mobility of amoebae. The team successfully grew the amoebae in agar, allowing them to document key events such as virus proliferation, cell death, and the release of new viruses. The researchers aim to use this footage as an educational tool in classrooms, enhancing students' understanding of viral infection mechanisms and the broader implications of viruses in ecosystems. The findings are published in the *Journal of Microbiology & Biology Education*. sources

Published:
Nov 21 2024, 6 pm

IFLScience Explores True Crime in Science

IFLScience is set to launch a new series titled _True Crime in Science_, aimed at exploring the intersection of true crime narratives and forensic science. The series will delve into both well-known and lesser-known criminal cases, providing insights into the scientific methods used to solve them. Premiering on November 27, the series will consist of six episodes, with new installments released every Wednesday. This initiative caters to true crime enthusiasts eager to understand the forensic details that underpin some of the most challenging investigations. As audiences unwind with chilling tales of serial killers, _True Crime in Science_ promises to offer a unique perspective on the role of science in unraveling these complex stories. sources

Published:
Nov 21 2024, 7 pm

The Cowgirl Position: Overview and Associated Risks

The cowgirl position, also known as the cowboy or rider position, is a popular sexual position where the receiving partner sits atop the penetrating partner, typically facing each other. This position allows for various adaptations, including the reverse cowgirl and horizontal cowgirl, enhancing intimacy and pleasure through clitoral stimulation. According to sex experts, it ranks as the second favorite position for men and third for women, largely due to its versatility and ability to provide significant stimulation. However, caution is advised, as studies indicate that about 50% of penile fractures during sex occur in this position, often due to erratic thrusting. Communication between partners is essential to ensure comfort and enjoyment, minimizing the risk of injury. Overall, the cowgirl position remains a beloved choice for many couples, offering both excitement and intimacy. sources

Published:
Nov 17 2024, 1 pm

Were Neanderthals More "Human" Than Modern Humans?

Neanderthals, often depicted as brutish and primitive, have undergone a significant re-evaluation in recent research, revealing them to be intelligent, culturally complex, and emotionally sensitive beings. Discovered in the 19th century, Neanderthals were initially misidentified as modern humans, with their reputation suffering from misinterpretations, notably by paleontologist Marcellin Boule, who described an elderly skeleton as a "hunched-over brute." However, later studies suggest that Neanderthals exhibited altruism, caring for injured or elderly members of their community, and engaged in burial practices, indicating an understanding of mortality. Evidence of their artistic capabilities, such as cave paintings in Spain, further underscores their cognitive sophistication. As researchers continue to explore their behaviors and social structures, it becomes clear that Neanderthals shared many human-like qualities, prompting a reconsideration of their legacy and raising questions about the nature of humanity itself. sources

Published:
Nov 21 2024, 1 pm

Man Endures One of History's Most Horrific Deaths

Archaeologists from the University of Milan have uncovered a Medieval skeleton believed to belong to a young man, aged between 17 and 20, who suffered a horrific death in the 13th century. Found near a cathedral in Milan, the skeleton exhibits symmetrical wounds on the arms and legs, suggesting he was subjected to the brutal torture method known as "the wheel," historically used for public executions. This method involved systematically breaking limbs and inflicting further injuries before the victim was displayed on the wheel. The researchers speculate that the man may have been accused of being a plague spreader, leading to his gruesome fate. Additionally, forensic analysis revealed linear fractures at the base of his skull, likely from a botched beheading. If confirmed, this discovery would represent the first archaeological evidence of wheel torture in medieval northern Italy, highlighting the extreme violence of the era. sources

Published:
Nov 17 2024, 8 pm

Nostradamus's Predictions on Putin and World War III Explained

Recent claims suggest that Nostradamus predicted Vladimir Putin's invasion of Ukraine could escalate into World War III, with various interpretations of his writings circulating online. One passage, which mentions "seven months the Great War," has sparked speculation about a larger conflict stemming from current tensions. However, experts argue that Nostradamus's predictions are often vague and can be retroactively applied to numerous events, a phenomenon known as "postdiction." For instance, a passage linked to famine suggests dire consequences, but its ambiguity allows for broad interpretation. Critics emphasize that Nostradamus's prophecies lack specificity and accuracy, rendering them more a reflection of contemporary fears than genuine foresight. Ultimately, the consensus is that Nostradamus did not predict anything concrete regarding Putin or a potential world war, highlighting the tendency to ascribe meaning to ambiguous texts after events unfold. sources

Published:
Nov 17 2024, 9 am

Study Reveals Surprising Truth About Native Americans' Identity

A new genetic study has challenged the long-held belief that Native Americans descended from the Jōmon people of Japan, who lived from around 14,000 to 300 BCE. Previously, similarities in stone tools suggested a connection, with theories positing that the First Peoples migrated to North America via the Bering Land Bridge approximately 15,000 years ago. However, research led by Professor Richard Scott from the University of Nevada-Reno, published in *PaleoAmerica*, found minimal genetic links between Native Americans and the Jōmon population, with only 7% of Jōmon teeth samples showing any relation. The findings suggest that Native Americans likely originated from Siberia instead. Additionally, recent discoveries of ancient human footprints in New Mexico, dating back 23,000 to 21,000 years, indicate that early migrations into the Americas occurred much earlier than previously thought, further undermining the Jōmon connection. sources

Published:
Nov 21 2024, 2 am

For the fastest, latest, not so wokest news, 'experts say' you need to visit Eznews

End of news stories. Come back in an hour!