Tectonic plates can spread subduction like a contagion — jumping from one oceanic plate to another
Evidence from Earth's deep past suggests dramatic subduction zones can spread like a contagion.
Planet Earth
Scientists discover strong, unexpected link between Earth's magnetic field and oxygen levels
Earth's magnetic field and oxygen levels have increased more or less in parallel over the past 540 million years, suggesting the two factors are linked in some way, researchers say.
Groundwater in the Colorado River basin won't run out — but eventually we won’t be able to get at it, scientists warn
The Colorado River basin has lost a Lake Mead’s worth of water in the last 20 years — and scientists say we’re passing a "critical point" where pumping groundwater will become too expensive.
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Health
Iron deficiency in pregnancy can cause 'male' mice to develop female organs
Low iron levels can flip the genetic switch on a mouse's sex during development, causing XY embryos to grow female features. But it's not clear whether the effect applies to humans.
Animals
Instead of 'de-extincting' dire wolves, scientists should use gene editing to protect living, endangered species
Opinion A legal scholar with a doctorate in wildlife genetics explains the promise biotechnology techniques hold for some animals that are currently endangered.
Human Behavior
People's mental health often improves after weight-loss surgery. A study pinpoints the real reason why.
Feeling less stigma — not losing weight — was linked to better mental health and eating behaviors after bariatric surgery.
Physics & Mathematics
'Alien's language' problem that stumped mathematicians for decades may finally be close to a solution
The Inter-universal Teichmüller Theory, an infamous proof that has confounded mathematicians for over a decade, has been partially solved.
Chemistry
Scientists create ultra-tough copper alloy that is stronger than steel and can withstand temperatures of 1500 F
The new super-strong copper alloy can be used to build better airplanes and spacecraft.
Technology
Best microscopes for students 2025
Discover a microscopic world with one of the best microscopes for students and young scientists, without emptying your wallet.
