Why there's been a boom in discovering new species despite a biodiversity crisis
Aug 16, 2018 20:16 pm UTC| Insights & Views Science
Something of a boom in the discovery of new species is taking place right now. It is so significant that some say it is similar to the period of the 18th and 19th centuries when European naturalists ventured into newly...
The world of plastics, in numbers
Aug 13, 2018 14:45 pm UTC| Insights & Views Science
From its early beginnings during and after World War II, the commercial industry for polymers long chain synthetic molecules of which plastics are a common misnomer has grown rapidly. In 2015, over 320 million tons of...
How biobanks can help improve the integrity of scientific research
Aug 13, 2018 14:31 pm UTC| Insights & Views Science
Biobanks are repositories which receive, store, process and disseminate specimens. These include DNA derived from humans and animals; bacterial strains; and environmental samples like plants and soil. Biobanks also provide...
Jupiter's magnetic fields may stop its wind bands from going deep into the gas giant
Aug 13, 2018 14:00 pm UTC| Insights & Views Science
One of the most striking features of Jupiter a gaseous giant with no solid surface is the coloured bands that encircle the planet. These bands are so large and distinct that they can be seen from here on Earth using a...
The US plan for a Space Force risks escalating a 'space arms race'
Aug 13, 2018 14:00 pm UTC| Insights & Views Science
United States Vice President Mike Pence has confirmed overnight plans to create a Space Force as the sixth branch of the US military. He repeated comments from President Donald Trump, who had said that American...
Chemistry kits can help teachers ignite the spark of science
Aug 13, 2018 13:32 pm UTC| Insights & Views Science
When it comes to physical sciences, South Africas pupils lag far behind their peers in other countries. The World Economic Forum ranked South Africa at 128 of 137 countries in math and science education in its most recent...
How ancient cultures explained comets and meteors
Aug 08, 2018 13:03 pm UTC| Insights & Views Science
Comets and meteors have fascinated the human race since they were first spotted in the night sky. But without science and space exploration to aid understanding of what these chunks of rock and ice are, ancient cultures...