Hark! Is that a proton I hear?

The video clip at the end of this post (or here) lets you hear the sound of hydrogen molecules being hit with a high-powered laser beam. I won't give it away, but it isn't a Hollywood-style 'zzzap'.Physicists Uwe Thumm and...

Should we encourage driving for pleasure?

Thinking of going for a whiz around the countryside this weekend to ease your city-frayed nerves? Please, do.Want to drive in to work because simply can't face the smell of your neighbour's armpit on the bus? Please, don't.This is the...

Beat generation

Most music is written in 4/4 meter, giving four beats per bar. Why are we inclined to prefer 4/4 time? Are there circuits in our brains that tick along in patterns of four?Michael Light, Carlisle, Western Australia

Obama is the Mac, Clinton a PC

It’s Super Tuesday, when 24 states hold their primary elections and the US Presidential candidate contest reaches fever pitch. If you’re having trouble figuring out where your loyalties lie, Noam Cohen at The New York Times may be able to...

Saturn visualising software a 3D thrill

You can virtually ride along with the Cassini spacecraft as it explores Saturn and its moons by downloading new NASA software.Called Cassini at Saturn Interactive Explorer (CASSIE), the program has three different modes that allow the user to get up...

Nanotube X-ray enhancer

While X-ray images easily show up the difference between bone and soft tissue, there's not enough contrast between the soft tissues to tell them apart.Contrast agents containing strongly X-ray-scattering substances like iodine must be used to show up abnormal tissue....