February 7, 2025
Some research shows that e-cigarettes can be a useful tool for quitting cigarettes, but that strategy is hotly contested by scientists. Plus, an investigative journalist outlines how fraud and misconduct have stalled the search for effective Alzheimer’s treatments in a new book. And, why snow has that crisp, clean smell.
The Logic Of Blame
When it comes to blame and logic, it may be more useful to understand the system rather than the individual.
The Pursuit Of ‘Pure’ Food
Nineteenth century milk sellers used formaldehyde to preserve their product. Just how far have food regulations come?
7:42
Introducing The 2018 Nobel Prize Laureates In The Sciences
This week, a handful of scientists got early morning calls with some exciting news.
12:37
The Number Of Female Nobel Laureates Grows By Two
For the first time ever, female scientists were awarded the Nobel Prize in physics and chemistry in the same year.
11:48
Some Dung Beetles Carry Parasites On Their Genitals, And It’s Not A Bad Thing
Eating poop isn’t the worst thing these beetles have to live with.
10:10
That’s No Space Station, It’s A Moon (Maybe)
Researchers may have spotted signs of a moon orbiting a planet some 8,000 light years away.
23:59
Borax: It’s What’s For Dinner
In the early 20th century, milk could be spiked with formaldehyde and pepper could contain coconut shells or charred rope—until a government chemist called for new food safety.
24:11
Using Logic In A Maddening World
We all think we’re logical. So why do we have so many disagreements?
Science Friday Live In The Sunshine State
On Saturday November 17, we’re heading to Tampa, Florida to soak up the local science.
The Origin Of The Word ‘Alcohol’
“The cause of (and solution to) all life’s problems” is derived from Arabic. But the word ‘alcohol’ originally referred to a method of manufacturing makeup, among other things.
Shell Shocked
Study gastropod shells to understand the evolutionary trade-off between the costs and benefits of building a shell for protection in this resource from Shape of Life
A New Beak Evolution Lab!
This evolution simulation goes further by modeling reproductive success while giving young engineers an opportunity to flex their skills.
Pakistan Faces A Water War On The Horizon
In his new book, Jeff Nesbit unpacks the rising political tensions between India and Pakistan as a critical water source begins to shrivel up. Will it trigger a nuclear war?
7:31
Is This The Dawning Of The Age Of Meghalayan?
Geologists and archeologists debate a new potential geologic age, starting around 4,200 years ago.
4:23
After Florence, A Coal Ash Controversy In A North Carolina River
Environmentalists and industry representatives disagree about the amount of coal ash in a North Carolina river following recent flooding.
23:29
What’s Next For Utah’s Bony Treasures?
Months after the national monuments at Bears Ears and Grand Staircase-Escalante were slashed, paleontologists are among those still in limbo.
10:10
A Trip To An Asteroid…And Back
The Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency landed two rovers on the asteroid Ryugu with a plan to return samples to Earth in two years.
11:27
From Mother’s Lungs To Baby’s Body
Why does air pollution exposure in the womb adversely affect infants? Researchers find a possible clue in the thyroid.
10:59
Capturing A Rare Kind Of Cloud
Noctilucent clouds weren’t spotted until 1885. Now, NASA’s PMC Turbo mission has captured their image.
22:56
Will World War Three Be Fought Over Water?
Yemen is gripped by civil war—and some experts say it could be the first of many ‘water wars’ to come.