Multiple sclerosis is a disease that results when the immune system mistakenly attacks the brain and spinal cord. It affects nearly one million people in the U.S.[1] and over 2.8 million worldwide[2]. While genetics play a role in the risk of developing multiple sclerosis, environmental factors[3] such as diet, infectious disease and gut...
How are clouds’ shapes made? A scientist explains the different cloud types and how they help forecast weather
Curious Kids[1] is a series for children of all ages. If you have a question you’d like an expert to answer, send it to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. [2]. “How are clouds’ shapes made?” – Amanda, age 5, Chile I’m a meteorologist[3], and I’ve been fascinated by weather since I was 8 years old. I grew up in Minnesota,
... Maple seeds’ unique spinning motion allows them to travel far even in the rain, a new study shows
When wind or other disturbances detach winged maple seeds called samaras from their parent tree, they spin through the air – and can even spin when it’s raining. Impacts by high-speed raindrops only briefly interrupt the seed’s spinning because the seed can shed the drop rapidly and restart its spinning in less time than it takes to...
The science behind airplane deicing – a mechanical engineer explains how chemistry and physics make flying a more uplifting experience
If you are a frequent flyer, you’ve probably been at the airport waiting to jet somewhere on a winter trip when the voice of an airline employee announces over the intercom that there will be a slight delay while the plane gets deiced. But how does this process actually work, and why is it needed?
As a mechanical engineer[1] who...