What is Galaxy Zoo?
In some areas of scientific study, producing data isn’t a problem; it’s analysing it all that can be difficult. Astronomy…
What is the placebo effect?
Put simply, a placebo is something that seems to be a medical treatment but isn’t. Sugar pills are one of…
What is fracking?
Fracking is a nickname for hydraulic fracturing, a controversial process used to obtain reserves of natural gas deep below Earth’s…
Why can’t astronauts have fizzy drinks in space?
Astronauts aboard the International Space Station (ISS) generally drink water but thanks to the NASA Isspresso machine they can also have hot…
What is coral bleaching?
Coral is made of many tiny organisms called polyps. These soft-bodied animals are related to jellyfish and sea anemones and…
Does sugar make children hyperactive?
It’s accepted wisdom that consuming too much sugar will make children hyperactive, and many parents will tell you of occasions…
What are genetically modified organisms?
The phrase ‘genetically modified organisms’ is used to refer to anything living that has had its genes altered in some…
What’s the difference between snow and hail?
This question was asked by Joshua from Banbury, UK. Although snow and hail are similar (they’re both cold and fall…
What would happen if you fired a gun in space?
This question was asked by Leo and Sol from West Sussex, UK. The first thing to think about is whether…
How do painkillers work?
When you injure yourself you feel pain. Imagine you’ve touched something hot and burned your hand – the damaged cells…