Science Alert
Catch up on the latest science news, from space and technology to life and environmental research- all the discoveries shaping our world today.
Updated: 26 min 25 sec ago
Scientists use AI to decode sperm whale communication, discovering a possible phonetic alphabet and revealing that Mediterranean sperm whales have different dialects by region
In a groundbreaking study, scientists harnessed the power of artificial intelligence to decode the intricate communication system of sperm whales. Through their research, they discovered a phonetic alphabet and combinations of clicks that resemble words, revealing a unique regional dialect among sperm whales in the eastern Mediterranean Sea. This revelation transforms our understanding of non-human communication and highlights the importance of these vocalizations for conservation efforts.
Scientists create smartwatch-like plant wearables that let farmers monitor crops in real time, detecting drought, disease and nutrient problems days before plants show visible signs of stress
British farmers are on the verge of integrating innovative plant wearables to enhance crop monitoring. These tiny sensors affixed to leaves and stems can detect distress signals in plants days before visible symptoms appear. Powered by moisture evaporation, the devices continuously operate, distinguishing between water and salinity stress while tracking growth alterations. A network of these wearables could yield unparalleled insight into field conditions from a plant's perspective.
Scientists find nanoplastics in Antarctic soil for the first time, including tyre-wear particles, raising concerns that tiny plastic pollution can travel through the atmosphere to Earth's most remote places
In a groundbreaking study, scientists have identified nanoplastics in the pristine soils of Antarctica for the very first time. These microscopic plastic particles journey through the atmosphere, reaching even the most isolated regions. Analysis of soil samples revealed contamination from tyre wear and everyday plastic products. It suggests that both local human activities and far-reaching atmospheric movements contribute to this alarming trend, underscoring the widespread impact of plastic pollution worldwide.
Scientists have filmed a rare 125-million-year-old goblin shark alive in its natural deep-sea habitat for the first time, revealing a new depth record and a wider Pacific range
For the very first time, scientists have captured live footage of goblin sharks in their deep-sea environment, revealing new insights into the species. This remarkable finding extends their known depth by almost 700 meters. Observations from two separate instances identified these elusive sharks in previously unknown Pacific Ocean habitats, complemented by archived footage from 2019 that documented an unrecognized encounter. This groundbreaking research broadens the goblin shark's recognized range significantly.
A 2,500-year-old warrior prince tomb found in Italy had a chariot, helmet and weapons still inside
Archaeologists in Italy have unearthed a 2,500-year-old tomb of a pre-Roman warrior prince. This royal burial was found in Sirolo and belonged to the ancient Piceni civilization. The warrior prince was buried with a two-wheeled chariot and weapons. Nearby, a woman's burial contained textiles and ancient metal pins. This discovery sheds new light on the Piceni elite and their burial practices.
Lake Powell and Lake Mead are both running dangerously low, and scientists now say one radical idea could help: drain most of Lake Powell and store the water in Lake Mead instead
A Colorado River expert suggests moving water from Lake Powell to Lake Mead. This proposal addresses ongoing drought conditions impacting western United States water supplies. Lake Powell's dam infrastructure limits usable water storage, while Lake Mead offers greater capacity. The plan involves gradual water transfer and potential exposure of Glen Canyon. This strategy aims for long-term water management solutions for millions.
Space images have found a 5,000-mile seaweed belt across the Atlantic: Scientists say it can clog beaches and create public health problems
Sargassum seaweed, once a crucial part of marine ecosystems, has now transformed into a significant coastal issue due to nutrient-rich runoff from land. This rapid growth of brown macroalgae poses serious environmental and economic challenges, threatening tourism and local livelihoods. Scientists are investigating the interplay of nutrient shifts and ocean currents to resolve this issue, emphasizing that tackling land-based pollution is vital to curb the spread of sargassum.
Scientists invented a fake eye disease to see if AI chatbots could spot it, but the experiment took an unexpected turn
In a groundbreaking experiment, researchers created a fictitious eye disease, bixonimania, to evaluate the accuracy of AI chatbots. Many large language models accepted this non-existent condition as real, emphasizing the dangers of misinformation. Additionally, scientists found themselves referencing bogus research papers without realizing their inauthenticity, showcasing how AI learns patterns from the internet rather than confirming facts.
Computer scientist who created world's first chatbot in the 1960s spent his whole life warning that AI should never replace humans, and the reason will shock you
In the 1960s, Joseph Weizenbaum pioneered the first chatbot, named Eliza, which unveiled a startling truth: humans could emotionally bond with machines. This insight led him to caution against the potential of AI usurping human empathy. Weizenbaum's assertions about the risks of deceiving machines fostering misplaced trust echo powerfully in today's landscape of artificial intelligence.
One of the world's largest T. rex skeletons is heading to auction with a price tag of up to $30 million
A remarkable Tyrannosaurus rex fossil, affectionately dubbed Gus, is set to hit the auction block at Sotheby's. Measuring an impressive 38 feet in length, this nearly complete skeleton is anticipated to attract bids ranging from twenty to thirty million dollars. Its outstanding preservation and size underscore Gus's significance within the growing market for collectible dinosaur fossils.
Scientists in Singapore have found a way to transform shrimp shell waste into 'carbon-negative' hydrogen fuel, turning biomass waste into valuable climate solutions
Researchers have pioneered a groundbreaking method that transforms organic waste into hydrogen fuel, while simultaneously generating protein suitable for aquaculture feed and calcium carbonate. This innovative technology aims to achieve a carbon-neutral process, capturing more carbon dioxide than it emits. Ongoing investigations are focused on potential commercial uses for this adaptable technology, though scaling up remains a notable hurdle to achieving widespread use.
