Trending Science

Listen as Radio

"Researchers Discover 'Phantom Compound' in U.S. Drinking Water"

Researchers have identified a long-elusive "phantom compound" in US drinking water, known as chloronitramide anion (CI-N-NO2), a by-product of inorganic chloramines used for disinfection. For over 40 years, this chemical had remained unidentified due to its stability and low weight. A collaborative study from US and Swiss scientists utilized advanced techniques to synthesize and analyze the compound, revealing concentrations in some water samples that exceeded regulatory limits. While the presence of chloronitramide anion raises concerns due to its similarities with known toxic substances, experts emphasize the importance of chemical disinfection in preventing waterborne diseases. The findings highlight the need for further investigation into the health impacts of disinfection by-products, as chronic exposure to such chemicals may contribute to cancer risks. The study, published in the journal Science, aims to enhance understanding of these compounds and their formation pathways. sources

Published:
Nov 24 2024, 5 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 research, questions remain about how the core transitioned from a molten state to solid. Alfred Wilson-Spencer, a research fellow at the University of Leeds, highlights that while the inner core is extremely hot, at around 5,000 Kelvin, its solidification process is not fully understood. Traditional models suggest that the core must be supercooled significantly before solidification can occur, but this presents inconsistencies with observed core size. Recent simulations indicate that the presence of elements like carbon could allow for solidification with less supercooling, potentially altering estimates of the inner core's age, which may be several hundred million years younger than previously thought. This ongoing research, currently unpublished in peer-reviewed journals, could have significant implications for our understanding of Earth's magnetic field and the conditions necessary for life. sources

Published:
Nov 21 2024, 9 pm

AI Stabilizes Famous Bigfoot Footage, Revealing Its True Nature

The iconic Patterson-Gimlin film, shot in 1967 and long debated among Bigfoot enthusiasts, has been subjected to new scrutiny through AI stabilization techniques. The footage, which depicts a figure walking through California's Six Rivers National Forest, has been largely dismissed by scientists as a hoax, often attributed to a person in a costume. Recent stabilization efforts reveal that the figure closely resembles someone in an ape-like suit, raising further doubts about its authenticity. Previous analyses have suggested the presence of a fastener on the figure, reinforcing claims of it being a man in disguise. Despite ongoing fascination and numerous alleged sightings, scientific investigations into supposed Sasquatch evidence, including hair samples, have consistently identified them as belonging to known animals, primarily bears and dogs. The latest findings seem to confirm what many skeptics have long believed: the legendary creature is likely a myth. sources

Published:
Nov 25 2024, 3 am

Is Your Partner Immature? No Wonder You Lack Desire

A recent study has shed light on the "man-child phenomenon," where women perceive their male partners as dependent children rather than equal partners, significantly impacting their sexual desire. Researchers Emily Harris and Sari van Anders surveyed over 1,000 women in relationships with men, all of whom had children under 12. They found that when women undertook more household responsibilities than their partners, they were more likely to view them as dependents, leading to decreased sexual interest. This dynamic reflects broader gender inequities in relationships, suggesting that equitable division of labor could enhance sexual desire. While the study focused on heterosexual couples, it raises questions about similar dynamics in same-sex or gender-diverse relationships, indicating that the man-child phenomenon may extend beyond traditional gender roles. Further research is needed to explore these dynamics and their implications for sexual desire in various relationship structures. sources

Published:
Nov 25 2024, 12 am

Iceland Restarts Whaling Despite Hopes for Permanent Ban

Iceland has resumed commercial whaling, reversing a summer 2023 suspension that had raised hopes for the industry's demise. The government announced the decision to lift the ban, citing new regulations aimed at improving animal welfare, including restrictions on hunting distances and a ban on certain slaughter methods like electrification. However, animal rights advocates have condemned the move, arguing that no method can make whaling humane. Kate O’Connell from the Animal Welfare Institute expressed disappointment, stating that the decision would lead to unnecessary suffering for whales, while anti-whaling campaigner Luke McMillan dismissed the new measures as ineffective. Iceland's last remaining whaling company, Hvalur, continues to hunt fin whales, a species classified as vulnerable by the IUCN. Despite the resumption, there remains a glimmer of hope that the government may not renew Hvalur's whaling permit for future seasons. sources

Published:
Nov 25 2024, 12 am

Neanderthal "Flower Burial" Likely Created by Bees

A recent study has cast doubt on the "Flower Burial" hypothesis surrounding the Neanderthal remains found in Shanidar Cave, Iraq, where significant pollen deposits were discovered. Initially thought to indicate cultural burial practices, researchers now suggest that the pollen may have been deposited by nesting solitary bees rather than humans or animals. The study, published in the Journal of Archaeological Science, highlights that the pollen clumps consist of various species unlikely to bloom simultaneously, indicating a different origin than previously assumed. While the possibility of immature pollen being placed by humans or other means remains, the authors argue that the focus should shift from the floral aspect to the unique burial practices of Neanderthals, which may reveal more about their understanding of space and community. The findings challenge long-held beliefs about Neanderthal funerary customs and emphasize the complexity of their social behaviors. sources

Published:
Nov 25 2024, 1 am

Why Can't We Launch All Our Trash into Space?

Earth's escalating waste crisis, particularly in the West, sees over two billion tonnes of trash generated annually, with a mere fraction recycled. As traditional disposal methods falter, some have proposed launching waste into space as a solution. However, experts highlight significant challenges, including the high costs of space travel—approximately $1,200 per kilogram to low-Earth orbit—and the environmental impact of rocket emissions, which could worsen with increased launches. Safety concerns also loom, as improperly discarded debris could contribute to Kessler syndrome, a scenario where space junk collides and creates more debris, jeopardizing satellite operations. Alternatives like sending waste to the Moon or Mars face long-term implications, as future colonization could be hindered by accumulated garbage. While the idea of incinerating waste in the sun is appealing, it remains financially unfeasible. For now, recycling appears to be the most viable option for managing Earth's waste. sources

Published:
Nov 24 2024, 9 pm

Astronomers Discover Possible "Cracks" in Universe via Galaxies

Astronomers may have uncovered potential evidence of "cosmic strings," theorized "cracks" in the universe that originated during its early expansion. First proposed in the 1970s, these one-dimensional strings could stretch across the cosmos and are thought to produce detectable gravitational waves when they interact. A recent study focused on two galaxies in a region known as CSc-1, observed using the Himalayan Chandra Telescope, suggests they might actually be one galaxy lensed by a cosmic string. The researchers noted similar spectral properties between the two galaxies, indicating gravitational lensing effects. While the findings are intriguing, the team remains cautious, acknowledging that the galaxies could share similar characteristics due to their proximity or be influenced by other gravitational phenomena. They advocate for further observations with more advanced telescopes to confirm their hypothesis. The study has been published in the Bulletin de la Société Royale des Sciences de Liège. sources

Published:
Nov 21 2024, 10 pm

Man Receives Acute THC Dose in Lab: Results Revealed

In a recent study published in *Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research*, researchers investigated the effects of high doses of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) on a volunteer, revealing significant differences between pure THC and whole-plant cannabis. The double-blind, placebo-controlled trial involved a participant, referred to as H.C., who experienced minimal effects when smoking cannabis with lower THC levels. However, after inhaling 25 milligrams of vaporized THC, H.C. exhibited severe cognitive impairment, difficulty responding to questions, and episodes of near-unconsciousness. He reported hallucinogenic experiences, including visual distortions and an out-of-body sensation, which were absent when consuming whole cannabis. The researchers noted that the presence of other cannabis components, such as cannabidiol (CBD), might mitigate THC's adverse effects, suggesting that the isolated use of THC could lead to unexpected and intense reactions. This study highlights the complex interactions within cannabis and the need for further research on its components. sources

Published:
Nov 24 2024, 12 pm

"Scientists Reveal Alarming Science Facts Unknown to the Public"

A recent Reddit thread has sparked discussions about alarming scientific facts that many may not be aware of, with contributions from scientists revealing unsettling truths. One notable concern is the potential resurgence of anthrax due to thawing permafrost in Siberia, which previously led to a 2016 outbreak that killed 1,500 reindeer and affected humans. Additionally, prion diseases like Fatal Familial Insomnia pose severe health risks, causing sleep deprivation and ultimately death within 18 months of onset. Other grim revelations include the lack of pain relief for premature infants during medical procedures and the resurgence of diseases like the "pirate disease" in the U.S. The thread also touches on the dangers of jumping into lava and the precarious state of smallpox storage in Russia, highlighting the need for awareness about these frightening realities as climate change and other factors continue to evolve. sources

Published:
Nov 24 2024, 1 pm

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

End of news stories. Come back in an hour!