Discover the Science Behind Naturally Straight or Curly Hair

Ever wondered why some people have lusciously straight locks while others rock those gorgeous curls? Well, it’s time to unravel the mystery! You might think it’s all about your genes, and you’d be partly right. Genetics does play a significant role in determining your hair’s natural texture, but there’s more to the story. Join Craig […]


Flesh-eating bacteria infections are on the rise in the US − a microbiologist explains how to protect yourself

Vibrio vulnificus infections are spreading across the U.S. because of climate change. CDC/Janice Haney Carr Bill Sullivan, Indiana University Flesh-eating bacteria sounds like the premise of a bad horror movie, but it’s a growing – and potentially fatal – threat to people. In September 2023, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention issued a health […]

From Singularity to Home: Marie Howe’s Poetic Ode to Stephen Hawking and Our Cosmic Home

In honor of the brilliant physicist Stephen Hawking, who left us five years ago, poet Marie Howe crafted a celestial ode that delves into singularities and our profound connection to the cosmos. Explore this captivating poem in a featured video from The Marginalian, as we celebrate the legacy of Hawking and the poetic inspiration he […]

Spending time in space can harm the human body − but scientists are working to mitigate these risks before sending people to Mars

With NASA planning more missions to space in the future, scientists are studying how to mitigate health hazards that come with space flight. AP Photo/John Raoux Rachael Seidler, University of Florida When 17 people were in orbit around the Earth all at the same time on May 30, 2023, it set a record. With NASA […]

Unveiling the Science Behind Brewing the Perfect Cup of Coffee

If you’re a coffee enthusiast, you’re likely no stranger to the myriad of rules and advice on how to brew the perfect cup of coffee. Crafting that ideal cup might seem like an art form, but as you’ll see in the SciShow video below, it’s also deeply rooted in science, and the journey all begins […]

Exploring 6 Weird Units of Measurement We Still Use

Have you ever used a “Jiffy” to describe how fast you can do something? Or perhaps you’ve encountered a “Furlong” when reading about horse races? These seemingly outdated units still manage to sneak their way into our everyday conversations and even scientific discussions about dark matter. Let’s embark on a journey with Olivia Gordon to […]

How do flies find every stinky garbage dumpster? A biologist explains their sensory superpower

The blow fly’s antenna is a specialized organ that helps the fly detect food quicker than its competitors. heckepics/iStock via Getty Images Christine Picard, Indiana University Curious Kids is a series for children of all ages. If you have a question you’d like an expert to answer, send it to [email protected]. How do the green-and-blue […]

If anxiety is in my brain, why is my heart pounding? A psychiatrist explains the neuroscience and physiology of fear

In the face of a perceived threat, your body often activates a fight-or-flight response. George Peters/DigitalVision Vectors via Getty Images Arash Javanbakht, Wayne State University Heart in your throat. Butterflies in your stomach. Bad gut feeling. These are all phrases many people use to describe fear and anxiety. You have likely felt anxiety inside your […]