From the dizzying heights of tightrope walking, we can learn the secrets of balancing and defying gravity. Sonja Harpstead, a tightrope instructor in New York, explains that posture is the key to success, and lowering your center of gravity towards the wire is crucial. By understanding the physics of the human body, tightrope walkers use rotational inertia to keep their balance and carry a long balancing pole to lower their center of gravity even further. Beyond entertainment, research in this area could have healthcare implications, including detecting early muscle degradation in elderly patients and building strength and balance with physical therapy exercises. Take a step into the physics of tightrope walking today!

Nanotechnology is a fascinating field of study that explores the science of the very small. Imagine being able to manipulate and control matter at the atomic and molecular level! This is the world of nanotechnology. It is a highly interdisciplinary field that combines physics, chemistry, biology, and engineering to create new materials, devices, and systems that have the potential to revolutionize our world. One of the most exciting aspects of nanotechnology is the potential for new and innovative products that can improve our lives in countless ways. For example, scientists are currently researching how to use nanotechnology to develop new drug delivery systems, create more efficient solar panels, and even build tiny robots that can be used for medical purposes. Some of the most inspiring academic discourse in nanotechnology has come from researchers like Richard Smalley, who won the Nobel Prize in Chemistry for his work on carbon nanotubes, and Sumio Iijima, who discovered the first carbon nanotubes. Their groundbreaking research has paved the way for countless other scientists to explore the possibilities of nanotechnology. If you're interested in studying nanotechnology at the undergraduate level, you can expect to take courses in subjects like nanomaterials, nanoelectronics, and nanobiotechnology. You'll also have the opportunity to specialize in areas like nanomedicine or nanophotonics, depending on your interests. The potential career paths for someone with a degree in nanotechnology are vast and varied. You could work in industries like electronics, energy, or healthcare, developing new products and technologies that could change the world. Some specific examples of potential employers include Intel, IBM, and General Electric. To succeed in the field of nanotechnology, you'll need a strong background in science and math, as well as excellent critical thinking and problem-solving skills. You'll also need to be creative and innovative, as the field is constantly evolving and new discoveries are being made all the time. If you're interested in exploring the world of nanotechnology further, there's no better time to start than now. With so much potential for innovation and discovery, it's an exciting field that is sure to inspire and challenge you for years to come.

Are you aware that over 2 billion people globally drink water contaminated with disease-causing microbes? Stanford University and SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory have developed a low-cost, recyclable powder that can kill thousands of waterborne bacteria per second when exposed to ordinary sunlight. This discovery could be a significant breakthrough for the nearly 30 percent of the world's population without access to safe drinking water. The results of their study are published in Nature Water.

Waste management is an essential aspect of public health, and it has a long and fascinating history. From ancient Roman public latrines to modern wastewater treatment plants, the evolution of toilets and sewage systems has been pivotal in preventing the spread of dangerous microorganisms that cause cholera, dysentery, and typhoid. Learning about the history of waste management is not only intellectually stimulating but also practically important for understanding the importance of proper sanitation. While modern toilets have a wide range of features, billions of people around the world still lack access to proper sanitation facilities, putting them at risk of disease. By studying the history of waste management and developing new sanitation technologies, we can address the behavioral, financial, and political issues that produce inequity throughout the sanitation pipeline and improve public health for all.

Sharks may have a key to the future of soft robotics and medical implants. Physicists have discovered how sharks' spiral-shaped intestines work, which led them to 3D print models of the structures to study their fluid dynamics. They found that the soft, elastic materials led to faster fluid flow in one direction, contrary to a basic physics theorem. This discovery could inspire the development of soft robots and medical devices that can deform in different ways, just like an octopus.

Teflon, a material that doesn't stick to anything, was stumbled upon accidentally in 1938 by a chemist named Roy Plunkett. Teflon's properties make it perfect for things that need to be slippery, chemical-resistant, or waterproof, which means it has a lot of applications. It can be found all over the place, from raincoats to industrial ball bearings to artificial joints. The incredible properties of PTFE, the chemical name for Teflon, come from its molecular structure. It's a polymer, meaning it's made of long chains of repeating units of atoms strung together. PTFE has tight carbon-fluorine bonds that ignore the normal, intermolecular forces that help substances stick to each other. Even the famously adhesive feet of geckos usually can't get a grip on it. Learning about the properties of materials like Teflon can inspire independent exploration of science and engineering, which can lead to exciting career opportunities in fields like materials science and chemical engineering.

Scientists have developed a simple and low-cost method to break down almost a dozen types of "forever chemicals" known as PFAS, which have contaminated virtually every drop of water on the planet and are associated with certain cancers and thyroid diseases. By using a chemical guillotine and common solvents and reagents, they severed the molecular bonds in PFAS, gradually nibbling away at the molecule until it was gone, leaving behind only safe byproducts. This breakthrough could eventually make it easier for water treatment plants to remove PFAS from drinking water.

Think cold weather is only dangerous in extreme conditions? Think again. Research from the University of South Wales shows that even mild temperatures like 10°C can have a profound impact on the heart, lungs, and brain. Explore the science behind cold environments and their effects on the body in this eye-opening experiment.

Get an inside look into the physics of freestyle skiing and snowboarding! Discover how professional skiers create lift-off force and control their rotational momentum mid-air to execute their incredible feats of manoeuvrability. Explore the challenges of incorporating twisting and learn about the crucial role of posture in executing aerial tricks. Join us in uncovering the secrets of landing safely after these jaw-dropping stunts.

Have you ever heard of the field of nanotechnology? It's a rapidly growing and exciting field that is revolutionizing the way we live, work, and play. Nanotechnology is the study and manipulation of materials on a molecular or atomic scale, and it has the potential to transform everything from medicine to electronics. Imagine creating tiny robots that can swim through your bloodstream and target cancer cells, or developing ultra-light and ultra-strong materials for airplanes and cars. These are just a few examples of the amazing possibilities that nanotechnology offers. As a nanotechnologist, you would work with these tiny materials to create new products and technologies. You might design and develop new materials, work on improving existing ones, or create entirely new devices and systems. You could work in a variety of fields, from medicine to electronics to energy. Typical duties in nanotechnology might include conducting experiments, analyzing data, designing and building prototypes, and collaborating with other scientists and engineers. There are also many areas of specialization within nanotechnology, such as nanoelectronics, nanobiotechnology, and nanomaterials. To get started in this field, you'll need a strong background in science and engineering. Many nanotechnologists have degrees in materials science, chemistry, physics, or electrical engineering. Some popular undergraduate programs and majors include nanotechnology engineering, materials science and engineering, and chemical engineering. In addition to technical skills, there are certain personal attributes that can be helpful in this field. These might include a strong attention to detail, excellent problem-solving skills, and a creative and innovative mindset. The job prospects for nanotechnologists are excellent, with many exciting opportunities available in both the public and private sectors. Some notable employers in this field include IBM, Intel, and Samsung, as well as government agencies such as NASA and the National Institutes of Health. So if you're looking for a career that is both challenging and rewarding, consider exploring the field of nanotechnology. Who knows what amazing discoveries and inventions you might be a part of in the future!

Discover the secrets behind the remarkable hydrodynamic performance of shark skin and how it's inspiring the design of bioinspired robots and materials!

Medical Physics is an exciting and rapidly developing field that lies at the intersection of physics, engineering, and healthcare. It involves the application of physics and mathematics to the diagnosis and treatment of diseases and disorders, as well as the development of new medical technologies and devices. Medical physicists work in hospitals, research centers, and private industry, and they play a critical role in improving patient care and outcomes. As a medical physicist, you might work on developing and testing new imaging technologies like MRI and CT scans, or you might design and implement radiation therapy treatments for cancer patients. You might also be involved in ensuring the safety and accuracy of medical equipment and procedures, such as ensuring that radiation doses are delivered precisely to the target area. One of the most appealing aspects of a career in Medical Physics is the opportunity to make a real difference in people's lives. For example, medical physicists working in radiation therapy help to design treatments that can target cancer cells with greater accuracy, reducing side effects and improving patient outcomes. Similarly, medical physicists working in imaging can help to develop new techniques that provide better diagnostic information to doctors, leading to earlier and more accurate diagnoses. To become a medical physicist, you typically need a strong background in physics, mathematics, and computer science, as well as specialized training in medical physics. Popular undergraduate programs for aspiring medical physicists include physics, engineering, and applied mathematics. Many medical physicists also pursue graduate degrees in medical physics, which provide specialized training in the field. Medical Physics offers a wide range of potential areas of specializations, including diagnostic imaging, radiation therapy, and nuclear medicine. Medical physicists may also work in related fields such as health physics, biomedical engineering, and medical informatics. Personal attributes that are helpful for a career in Medical Physics include a strong attention to detail, excellent problem-solving skills, and a passion for science and healthcare. Good communication and interpersonal skills are also important, as medical physicists often work closely with doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals. Job prospects for medical physicists are generally quite good, with demand expected to grow as new medical technologies are developed and implemented. There are many potential employers in both the public and private sectors, including hospitals, research centers, medical device manufacturers, and government agencies. Some notable examples of potential employers include the National Institutes of Health, the American Cancer Society, and the International Atomic Energy Agency.

Researchers have powered a microprocessor for a year using blue-green algae and ambient light! This system, comparable in size to an AA battery, has the potential to be a reliable and renewable way to power small devices. The growing Internet of Things needs power, and this system generates energy instead of simply storing it like batteries. The algae system is made of common and recyclable materials, making it easily replicable.

Are you fascinated by the inner workings of the human body and want to play a crucial role in diagnosing and treating illnesses? Look no further than the field of radiography! Radiography is the study of medical imaging, using X-rays, CT scans, MRIs, and other techniques to create images of the body's internal structures. It's a vital field that helps doctors detect and diagnose a wide range of medical conditions, from broken bones to cancer. In recent years, radiography has seen some exciting innovations and breakthroughs. For example, researchers are exploring the use of AI and machine learning to improve the accuracy and speed of medical imaging. And new techniques like 3D printing are allowing doctors to create custom implants and prosthetics for their patients. At the undergraduate level, students can expect to take courses in anatomy, physiology, medical terminology, and of course, radiographic imaging techniques. Many programs also offer clinical rotations, giving students hands-on experience working with patients and medical professionals. After graduation, there are a wide range of career paths available to radiography majors. Some graduates go on to become radiologic technologists, performing diagnostic imaging procedures like X-rays and CT scans. Others become radiation therapists, using radiation to treat cancer and other diseases. And still others go on to become medical physicists, working to develop and improve medical imaging technology. There are many potential employers for radiography graduates, including hospitals, clinics, and private imaging centers. Some notable examples include the Mayo Clinic, Johns Hopkins Hospital, and Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. To succeed in radiography, students should have a strong background in science and math, as well as excellent communication skills and attention to detail. If you're passionate about healthcare and interested in a challenging and rewarding career, radiography may be the perfect field for you.

Plastics have become ubiquitous in our daily lives, but few of us know the history behind this versatile material. The first plastic was created in 1863 by an American named John Wesley Hyatt, who invented celluloid, made from cellulose found in wood and straw. This discovery led to a cascade of new plastics, including bakelite, polystyrene, polyvinyl chloride, acrylics, and nylon. Plastics have replaced other materials like wood, glass, and fabric in furniture, clothing, and packaging. While plastics have brought convenience and cost-effectiveness, they have also created staggering environmental problems. Many plastics are made of nonrenewable resources, and plastic packaging was designed to be single-use, but some plastics take centuries to decompose, creating a huge buildup of waste. By learning about plastics, students can understand how science and innovation have shaped our world, and they can explore ways to address the environmental problems associated with plastic use.

Inhaler delivery systems have revolutionized the treatment of respiratory illnesses, making it easier for patients to receive the medicine they need to manage their symptoms. But how do these devices work, and what scientific principles underlie their design? At the heart of an inhaler is the aerosol, a fine mist of medication that is delivered directly to the lungs. To create this mist, inhalers use a propellant, which expands rapidly upon release, creating a burst of pressure that forces the medication out of the device and into the airways. One key challenge in designing inhalers is ensuring that the aerosol particles are small enough to be easily inhaled, yet large enough to deposit effectively in the lungs. This is where the science of aerodynamics comes into play, as researchers work to optimize the shape and size of the particles to achieve the ideal balance of delivery efficiency and patient comfort. Recent advancements in inhaler technology have led to the development of smart inhalers, which use sensors and digital connectivity to monitor patient use and provide personalized feedback and reminders. This innovation has the potential to improve patient adherence and outcomes, and is just one example of how inhaler delivery systems continue to evolve and improve. Leading academics in the field include Dr. Richard Costello, a respiratory physician and clinical scientist at the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, and Dr. Omar Usmani, a consultant physician in respiratory medicine at the Royal Brompton Hospital and professor of respiratory medicine at Imperial College London. These experts have contributed to important research on inhaler technology and the treatment of respiratory diseases, and continue to drive innovation in the field. Inhaler delivery systems have revolutionized the treatment of respiratory illnesses, allowing patients to manage their symptoms with greater ease and precision. By understanding the science behind aerosol medicine and the principles that underlie inhaler design, we can appreciate the incredible innovation that has made this possible.

The periodic table may seem like just another table of information, but it is so much more. It is a tool that scientists use to understand the world around us. By organizing all the chemical elements in order by atomic number, the periodic table creates a recurring pattern of properties called the periodic law. This allows us to predict the behavior of elements we haven't even discovered yet! Through the history of the periodic table, we can see how scientific discoveries and technological advancements build upon one another. Learning about the periodic table not only expands your scientific knowledge but also helps you develop analytical and critical thinking skills. By exploring this fascinating topic, you may even be inspired to pursue a career in science and help advance our understanding of the world.

Shine a laser on a drop of blood or wastewater and identify bacteria present in minutes. Stanford researchers have developed a new test that uses an innovative method, combining inkjet printing, nanoparticles, and artificial intelligence to reveal unique optical fingerprints of bacteria, leading to faster and more accurate microbial assays. The breakthrough promises better diagnoses of infection, improved use of antibiotics, safer foods, enhanced environmental monitoring, and faster drug development.

From toxic leaks to microplastic pollution, scientists are exploring how pollutants affect human health. Exposomics is a new field that aims to understand our exposure to chemicals and their impact. Carmen Marsit, a molecular epidemiologist, is leading the charge to measure our exposure to chemicals and their breakdown products in blood. Learn how scientists are using gas chromatography, liquid chromatography, and mass spectrometry to identify the chemicals we are exposed to and the potential health risks associated with chronic exposure.

Chemistry is the study of matter, its properties, and how it interacts with other substances. It is a fascinating field that is essential to our everyday lives. From the food we eat to the clothes we wear, chemistry plays a vital role in shaping the world around us. In recent years, chemistry has become even more exciting as researchers have made groundbreaking discoveries that are changing the world. For example, chemists are developing new materials that are stronger, lighter, and more durable than anything we've seen before. They are also working on new drugs that can cure diseases that were once thought to be incurable. Some of the most inspiring academic figures in the field of chemistry include Marie Curie, who discovered radium and polonium and was the first woman to win a Nobel Prize, and Linus Pauling, who won two Nobel Prizes for his work on chemical bonds and the structure of molecules. At the undergraduate level, students can expect to study a range of topics, including organic chemistry, physical chemistry, and analytical chemistry. These modules will provide a solid foundation in the field and prepare students for further specialisation in areas such as medicinal chemistry, materials science, or environmental chemistry. Chemistry graduates are in high demand, and there are a range of exciting career options available to them. They can work in industries such as pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, or energy, or they can pursue careers in academia or research. Some notable employers include GlaxoSmithKline, Pfizer, and Dow Chemical Company. To succeed in chemistry, students should have a strong interest in science and mathematics. They should also be analytical, detail-oriented, and have excellent problem-solving skills. With these attributes and a passion for the subject, students can embark on a rewarding career in chemistry and make a real difference in the world.