Engineering is a diverse branch of science and technology devoted to designing, building, problem-solving and finding practical uses for scientific discoveries. Live Science guides you through the different types of engineering— mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, chemical engineering, aerospace engineering and many more — with explainers on everything from who invented the telephone to how Bluetooth works.
Our expert writers and editors also scour the internet to break down the biggest engineering stories of the day, like biodegradable bullets or the world’s longest bridges. So, if you've got a mind for the mechanical, check out our latest engineering news, features and articles.
Latest about Engineering
Who invented the car? The history of the automobile
Reference Discover the complex history of the automobile, from early self-propelled vehicles to Karl Benz's invention of the first modern car, and explore the key innovators who shaped the cars we drive today.
Chinese scientists claim they have built a Death Star-inspired beam weapon
Chinese scientists claim they have made a converging energy beam weapon — but did they really, or have they been watching too much Star Wars?
Supersonic passenger planes 1 step closer to return after successful Boom XB-1 test flight nears sound barrier
The demonstrator craft is an important proof-of-concept for the return of supersonic commercial operations.
'It invites us to reconsider our notion of shadow': Laser beams can actually cast their own shadows, scientists discover
After discussing the quirks in 3D modeling software, where a laser beam is treated as a solid object that can cast a shadow, scientists decided to experiment in real life — and found that laser beams can indeed cast a shadow under the right conditions.
How did the Concorde fly so fast?
The Concorde was the fastest commercial plane ever flown, but its speed came with a hefty price tag.
New 'wastewater' jet fuel could cut airplane emissions by 70%
Scientists have discovered how to convert wastewater into biofuel to cut plane emissions by 70% — creating a new sustainable version of aviation fuel using biomass and agricultural waste.
Scientists have built an AI-powered 'electronic tongue'
This new device can AI to distinguish between different coffee blends or detect when food or drink may be on the verge of going bad.
Top-secret X-37B space plane will execute 'never-before-seen maneuvers' on its descent to Earth
Although it isn't clear what the X-37B is used for, its new maneuver would help it to evade detection and perform undetected low-passes over Earth.
World's most powerful X-ray laser set for massive upgrade that will help us better understand the atomic world
Researchers will be able to analyze chemical compounds and atoms in greater detail than ever before using the brightest, clearest laser of its kind anywhere in the world
Amazingly simple discovery extends Li-ion battery lifespan by 50% — meaning you don't have to replace your gadgets as often
Batteries used in smartphones or in EVs normally charge for 10 hours on their first cycle, but turbo-charging them to 100% capacity in 20 minutes may lead to a 50% longer lifespan.
