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Math and the Sciences
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The universe speaks to us in the form of numbers, and appears to us in myriad ways that we have yet to fully discover and understand. Modern Sciences pushes forward into modern-day discussion the different lenses through which we view the universe, and the language we use to commune with it—from beautiful patterns and equations brought forth by the best mathematicians to the latest discoveries that unravel the inner workings of our physical realm.
Out of your noggin? Festive spices and their intoxicating history
Spices and other aromatics have been a driving force in human history. Wikimedia Commons Morgan Saletta, The University…
Why the magic of Christmas is all down to chemistry
H2O H2O H2O! Shutterstock Simon Cotton, University of Birmingham What makes Christmas so special? Its religious significance? An…
Modern science tackles a biblical secret – the mystery ingredient in holy incense
The ingredients of incense were detailed in the Old Testament. Shutterstock/wideonet Kirsten Benkendorff, Southern Cross University A predatory…
Mulled wine: how ‘Christmas in a cup’ went from ancient medicine to an Aussie winter warmer
shutterstock. Morag Kobez, Queensland University of Technology When the temperature drops in the southern hemisphere, you might like…
The surprising role cheese played in human evolution
shutterstock Penny Bickle, University of York A solid white mass found in a broken jar in an Ancient…
How do fireworks work? A pyrotechnics chemist explains the science behind the brilliant colors and sounds
Colors, sparks, booms and whistles all require different pyrotechnic recipes. chensiyuan/WikimediaCommons, CC BY-SA Paul E. Smith, Purdue University…
Thank fungi for cheese, wine and beer this holiday season
These foods are all dependent on microorganisms for their distinctive flavor. margouillat photo/Shutterstock.com Antonis Rokas, Vanderbilt University It’s…
Citizen scientists discover new type of aurora
The aurora Steve. Rémi Farvacque/Alberta Aurora Chasers (facebook) Nathan Case, Lancaster University A collaboration between aurora-hunting citizen scientists…
Do the northern lights make sounds that you can hear?
John A Davis/Shutterstock Fiona Amery, University of Cambridge It’s a question that has puzzled observers for centuries: do…
Are the northern lights caused by ‘particles from the Sun’? Not exactly
PhotoVisions/Shutterstock Alexander MacKinnon, University of Glasgow What a spectacle a big aurora is, its shimmering curtains and colourful…