science
Ranking The Largest River Deltas: experts upend Nile-size myth; Asian giants dominate
Forget the Nile, the Ganges-Brahmaputra-Meghna Delta in Bangladesh and India is the world’s largest. This vast region, fed by three mighty rivers, boasts rich soil and vital ecosystems. Other massive deltas like the Amazon, Indus, Mekong, and Niger also play crucial roles globally. These natural wonders shape landscapes and support life. Source link
Cracked Silicon Sparked Semiconductors: Russell Ohl turns flaw into breakthrough; discovery powers solar cells
In 1940, a cracked silicon crystal at Bell Laboratories led Russell Ohl to discover the p-n junction, a pivotal moment for electronics. This accidental finding, revealing how semiconductors control electric current, paved the way for solar panels, transistors, and modern devices. Ohl’s breakthrough remains fundamental to photovoltaic technology and countless electronic innovations today. Source link
In 1985, three chemists spotted an unexpected soccer-ball molecule that reshaped nanotechnology
In 1985, scientists discovered a new form of carbon, buckminsterfullerene or C60. This molecule, shaped like a soccer ball, revealed carbon’s ability to form hollow cages. The discovery opened doors to nanotechnology, influencing fields like electronics and materials science. It marked a significant shift in understanding carbon bonds and nanoparticles. Source link
Odd “butterfly” molecule could lead to new parts of the quantum realm
An exotic new molecule is shaped like a butterfly, complete with “wings” made from electrons. The discovery could provide a gateway to completely new parts of the quantum realm Source link
Mystery of the ancient giant stone jars of Laos may have been solved
In central Laos, the landscape is littered with enormous stone jars, some 3 metres high, and we may be closer to understanding how and when they were used Source link