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: 43 min 2 sec ago
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.
Polar Forcing Packs Bigger Punch: Poles drive triple warming; models must map where heat hits
Recent studies reveal that the geographical location of warming is just as crucial as its intensity. Polar regions cause a significantly greater response in global temperatures compared to tropical areas, which have a milder impact. This difference emphasizes the importance of regional feedback mechanisms in amplifying climate change effects. For improved climate predictions, future models must take into account the location of warming influences.
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.
Towering trees more than 200 feet tall may not be as vulnerable to drought as scientists thought, new study reveals how Southeast Asia’s dipterocarps efficiently move water
Recent studies unveil that massive trees in Southeast Asia possess remarkable adaptations in their water transport mechanisms. These trees, known for reaching impressive heights, can effectively draw water upward, defying the challenges posed by gravity. This groundbreaking research, focusing on Malaysia's dipterocarps, shows that taller trees feature broader xylem vessels, offering fresh insights into their resilience amidst climate change.