A Moment of Science
Episodes
Our sun stands apart amidst solar twins
17 May 2022
Contributed by Lukas
Looking at the universe, our sun might be considered "just another star". While it might be special to us, there are a few other characteristics that ...
The largest bird to ever live
16 May 2022
Contributed by Lukas
The appropriately named elephant bird was the largest bird to ever live. Learn more about this impressive creature with A Moment of Science!
Dementor wasps are strange and fascinating
13 May 2022
Contributed by Lukas
Learn more about this unique species with today's A Moment of Science!
Could we cure paralysis?
12 May 2022
Contributed by Lukas
Learn more about some groundbreaking research in paralysis with today's A Moment of Science.
The importance of white paint for airplanes
11 May 2022
Contributed by Lukas
Why are most airplanes painted white? The reason goes beyond personal preference.
Dino eating dino? Not for T. rex and Stegosaurus
10 May 2022
Contributed by Lukas
The T. rex and Stegosaurus are among some of the most well-known dinosaurs, so it isn't uncommon to see them pictured together. But would the two have...
Amphipods have unwilling living backpacks
09 May 2022
Contributed by Lukas
There are many strange relationships between creatures of the animal kingdom, and not all of these are beneficial for both sides.
How wildfires are impacting the ozone
06 May 2022
Contributed by Lukas
With wildfire rates rapidly increasing, it's important to know how these events impact the rest of the world.
Why the mountain beaver's brain didn't grow
05 May 2022
Contributed by Lukas
When we think of brainpower, often the assumption is "bigger is better." In the case of the mountain beaver however, this isn't necessarily true.
Traces of past life in the world's oldest rubies
04 May 2022
Contributed by Lukas
Ancient rubies revealed some surprising information about past life on Earth.
"Hair" of the caterpillar
03 May 2022
Contributed by Lukas
Fuzzy caterpillars are a common sight throughout most of the United States, but this fuzz isn't actually hair. Learn more about these prickly creature...
Shining light on our understanding of the sun
02 May 2022
Contributed by Lukas
Learn about past theories on the nature of our closest star with today's A Moment of Science!
Technology and the rise of the mid-Atlantic accent
29 Apr 2022
Contributed by Lukas
While no longer in use today, most people are still familiar with the mid-Atlantic accent of the past. What led to this particular form of pronunciati...
What makes human brains different?
28 Apr 2022
Contributed by Lukas
Last week we examined the differences between humans and our closest genetic relatives. But what else separates us from chimpanzees?
Bats can block out the competition's sonar signals
27 Apr 2022
Contributed by Lukas
It is commonly known that bats use echolocation to navigate the world. But did you know they can also block these sonar signals from their rivals?
The worst day on Earth: The day of the Chicxulub impact
26 Apr 2022
Contributed by Lukas
What happened on the day that an asteroid caused a mass extinction event millions of years ago?
Fast-forwarding evolution in fish
25 Apr 2022
Contributed by Lukas
Evolution happens over such a long period of time, it can be difficult to study. One rare exception to this rule comes from steelhead trout.
Where does candle wax go?
23 Apr 2022
Contributed by Lukas
When you burn a candle, where does the melted wax end up? Today's A Moment of Science has the answer
The routine case of exploding manhole covers
21 Apr 2022
Contributed by Lukas
As alarming as it might sound to experience, flying manhole covers can be a routine part of life. Why does this phenomenon happen?
Pecking order at the bird feeder
20 Apr 2022
Contributed by Lukas
Many animals experience living in a pecking order, especially birds. How does this come up at the bird feeder?
How similar are humans to the rest of our family tree?
19 Apr 2022
Contributed by Lukas
Humans share a large percentage of DNA with monkeys and apes. What really separates us from our closest living genetic relatives?
Aphantasiacs and hyperphantasiacs
18 Apr 2022
Contributed by Lukas
How well does your mind's eye see? Learn about the spectrum of visual imagery with today's A Moment of Science.
The mathematical perfection of an egg's shape
15 Apr 2022
Contributed by Lukas
Eggs have often been described as the most perfect shape, for several reasons. Now researchers believe they have the formula behind this shape.
Why your arm hurts after getting a shot
14 Apr 2022
Contributed by Lukas
Why is your arm always sore after getting a shot? A Moment of Science has the answer
Why tail weaponry has gone the way of the dinosaurs
13 Apr 2022
Contributed by Lukas
There aren't many animals these days that have some sort of self-defense on their tail, unlike the dinosaurs millions of years ago. So what changed al...
Birdsong apps can be confusing for real birds
12 Apr 2022
Contributed by Lukas
Birders will often use apps to learn how to mimic calls of the birds they're searching for. But how can this impact the wildlife they're trying to obs...
Why do you like that toy?
11 Apr 2022
Contributed by Lukas
We all probably have a favorite chair or other object that we like the best for no real reason. Why is that? And what do preferences in babies tell us...
The truth behind a snake's warning pattern
08 Apr 2022
Contributed by Lukas
Several snakes have bright patterns, either to warn off predators or to be used as camouflage. But are these patterns a sign of real danger or just a ...
The electrifying science behind Frankenstein
07 Apr 2022
Contributed by Lukas
Mary Shelley's Frankenstein has been one of the most iconic science fiction stories for over 200 years. What science of her time inspired this tale?
The fiery sting of the fire ant
06 Apr 2022
Contributed by Lukas
Learn more about the sting the fire ant gets its name from.
Why did human brains decrease in size?
05 Apr 2022
Contributed by Lukas
Our brains are three times as large as our closest evolutionary relative. But the size of the human brain hasn't just continually grown during our evo...
The science of sponges is stranger than fiction
04 Apr 2022
Contributed by Lukas
What do you know about sponges? Learn all about these unique members of the animal kingdom with today's A Moment of Science.
The difference between simple and complex carbs
01 Apr 2022
Contributed by Lukas
Our bodies prefer to get their energy from carbs. But does it matter what kind of carbohydrates you put into your body?
Why crocs might want to eat rocks
31 Mar 2022
Contributed by Lukas
Crocodilians appear to eat rocks on purpose, but why exactly would they want to do that?
The science behind "fat-free" foods
30 Mar 2022
Contributed by Lukas
Just because a label says a product is fat free or low fat, that doesn't mean the food is good for you. A Moment of Science looks closer at the pros a...
Do birds hear tsunamis and hurricanes?
29 Mar 2022
Contributed by Lukas
There's plenty of anecdotal evidence suggesting that birds and other animals can sense incoming weather threats, but is there any scientific backing t...
The simple elastic ruler
28 Mar 2022
Contributed by Lukas
Try this simple at home demonstration to learn more about light rays and water.
Bright colors mean less harassment for hummingbirds
25 Mar 2022
Contributed by Lukas
Even hummingbirds can experience unwanted attention. But scientists noted that those with certain plumage tend to face less harassment.
The difficulty in describing smells
24 Mar 2022
Contributed by Lukas
You might be good at identifying a smell, but how well can you describe it? Research looks closer at the linguistic difficulties some cultures have.
The Moon has ancient lunar lava
23 Mar 2022
Contributed by Lukas
How much do you know about the Moon's history? Evidence shows billions of years ago, our moon was a much different place.
What caused the Appalachian Mountain bend?
22 Mar 2022
Contributed by Lukas
The Appalachian Mountains run in almost a straight line, except for a 150 mile-long bend. What caused this formation to occur?
Mammals in cities are larger and longer
21 Mar 2022
Contributed by Lukas
Bigger is usually better in the animal kingdom, but what role does environment play in determining a mammal's size? Research suggests urbanization may...
Does a shape of a glass impact how you drink?
18 Mar 2022
Contributed by Lukas
There are tons of options when it comes to glassware specifically for alcohol. Does the glass you choose make much of a difference?
Evidence of the oldest dinosaur herds
17 Mar 2022
Contributed by Lukas
In 2021, researchers looked at early fossil evidence and determined herbivores lived together in cohesive herds. Today's A Moment of Science has more ...
George Washington comes out on top
16 Mar 2022
Contributed by Lukas
A simple experiment with quarters teaches us more about rotations.
Science says your cat really is a freeloader
15 Mar 2022
Contributed by Lukas
Researchers conducted experiments to determine cats' likelihood to be a freeloader or a "contrafreeloader," and the results probably won't surprise ca...
The long-lasting damage of a hurricane
14 Mar 2022
Contributed by Lukas
Hurricanes can be devastating weather events. Once they pass, their impact is often felt long after the crisis ends.
Is climate change making the Earth dimmer?
11 Mar 2022
Contributed by Lukas
Climate change is leading to a number of unexpected consequences. New research published last year shows our planet getting dimmer might be one of the...
How do power indicators work?
10 Mar 2022
Contributed by Lukas
Power indicators can be handy when trying to tell how much juice a battery has left, but how do this process actually work?
The elusive beaked whale
09 Mar 2022
Contributed by Lukas
Learn more about this uncommon creature with A Moment of Science!
14,400-year-old bread sheds light on our dietary history
08 Mar 2022
Contributed by Lukas
Scientists studying ancient bread break down what our ancestors ate and the significance of this discovery.
It can be too warm or too cold for bumblebees to fly
07 Mar 2022
Contributed by Lukas
Bumblebees can behave like Goldilocks too, by wanting the air temperature to be just right for flight.
Eyes are the windows to the personality
04 Mar 2022
Contributed by Lukas
We've heard the expression "eyes are the windows to the soul," but what do they really tell us about an individual? Research shows there's more inform...
The changing landscape of shark tourism
03 Mar 2022
Contributed by Lukas
There are benefits to learning about sharks in both aquariums and in their natural habitats. With the expanding industry of shark tourism, there can b...
Is it safe to shower when there's lightning?
02 Mar 2022
Contributed by Lukas
Not showering during a thunderstorm is commonly heard advice, but is there any truth that you're really taking a safety risk if you ignore this warnin...
Moth wingtips can be used to confuse bat sonar
01 Mar 2022
Contributed by Lukas
Animals have had to make several adaptations to their bodies as they evolve to avoid predators. Scientists have recently looked at how moths are desig...
Elephants can sniff out their preferred snacks
28 Feb 2022
Contributed by Lukas
Members of the animal kingdom use their five senses in ways impossible for humans to replicate. But sometimes, we see familiar characteristics in surp...
The roots of modern biology grew in a monastery garden
25 Feb 2022
Contributed by Lukas
Research into the field of genetics has come a long way, but how did these roots begin? Learn more about Gregor Mendel in today's A Moment of Science
Why rivers don't flow in straight lines
24 Feb 2022
Contributed by Lukas
Rivers wind and bend their way through a landscape, but why don't we see them in straight lines? Today's A Moment of Science has the answer
How hummingbirds use their sense of smell
23 Feb 2022
Contributed by Lukas
Scientists have wondered how hummingbirds use their senses when finding flowers with nectar, but didn't think their sense of smell was useful. New res...
Another good reason to go for Thai food
22 Feb 2022
Contributed by Lukas
Have you ever wondered why some cuisines are known for being spicy and others for being bland? This might have something to do with the climates of th...
The leafy seadragon is a master of camouflage
21 Feb 2022
Contributed by Lukas
There are many supernatural creatures of the ocean that keep us fascinated, like the kraken or sirens. But what about a real sea dragon?
The cloning and quaking stand of aspen
18 Feb 2022
Contributed by Lukas
Quaking aspen trees are known to group in communities, or "stands." These stands might actually be made up of genetic clones.
Changing shape to cope with a changing climate
17 Feb 2022
Contributed by Lukas
Animals have had to adapt to their specific climates over generations of evolution. Climate change, however, has created a more immediate need to adap...
The simple science behind one-way glass
16 Feb 2022
Contributed by Lukas
One-way glass is a common sight in crime shows, but how do these reflective surfaces really work?
The potential hidden twin within
14 Feb 2022
Contributed by Lukas
Even if you don't have a twin, there's a potential that not all of your chromosomes are actually yours.
The ant with metal in its mandibles
11 Feb 2022
Contributed by Lukas
Animals can be composed of a surprising number of materials, including some metals.
How curiosity impacts infant development
10 Feb 2022
Contributed by Lukas
Babies are constantly learning about the world around them, but are some more interested in learning than others?
Why do salmon leap?
09 Feb 2022
Contributed by Lukas
Salmon are commonly seen leaping upstream to travel, but why do they leap in still water as well?
Expanding the search for extraterrestrial life to planets less like Earth
08 Feb 2022
Contributed by Lukas
NASA's James Webb telescope hopes to provide more information than we've ever had access to before about the universe around us, including the possibi...
Fruit flies are social butterflies
07 Feb 2022
Contributed by Lukas
When we think of social animals, fruit flies probably aren't the first example to come to mind. These tiny creatures need to be around others more tha...
The mating song of Alston's singing mice
04 Feb 2022
Contributed by Lukas
Many animals have strange or elaborate mating rituals, even some mice. Learn more about what makes this mouse's sweet song so different.
The wonderful Welwitschia mirabilis plant
03 Feb 2022
Contributed by Lukas
Learn about this plant with a tongue twister of a name with A Moment of Science!
Taking a bug's anatomy to heart
02 Feb 2022
Contributed by Lukas
While they might look a little different from us, a bug still technically has a heart just like us. Learn more about their anatomy with today's A Mome...
Sleep and inequality in the United States
01 Feb 2022
Contributed by Lukas
Inequality for minority groups can impact a number of life factors, including getting enough sleep. Research looks into the relationship between these...
Blood type might impact how you should prep for traveling
31 Jan 2022
Contributed by Lukas
If you've ever experienced some unpleasant sickness from traveling, like getting diarrhea, your blood type might actually be part of the equation.
The trick behind a rattlesnake's rattle
28 Jan 2022
Contributed by Lukas
Scientists noticed some interesting behaviors when rattlesnakes began to rattle, and further research provided insight into these creatures.
Anxiety can impact how you view facial expressions
27 Jan 2022
Contributed by Lukas
When someone tells you to calm down, that's often the most inconvenient time to actually calm down. But is the expression on your face really accurate...
The hidden benefits of marine biofluorescence
26 Jan 2022
Contributed by Lukas
Under the blue light seen below the ocean's surface, there's a surprising array of biofluorescence to be seen. If, of course, you have the right kind ...
The durian fruit's smell is at odds with its taste
25 Jan 2022
Contributed by Lukas
How can a fruit that smells like garbage be appealing? Somehow, most of the animal kingdom besides humans are fans of durians.
The gap in the Grand Canyon's rock record
24 Jan 2022
Contributed by Lukas
In geology, gaps in the rock record are fairly common. But the Great Unconformity of the Grand Canyon takes this gap to a new level.
Seeing yourself through imaginary coworkers
21 Jan 2022
Contributed by Lukas
How do you see the world? Your descriptions of the people around you can actually reveal a lot about how you see yourself.
Is stinky cheese appetizing or disgusting?
20 Jan 2022
Contributed by Lukas
Why do some people find the smell of pungent cheeses appetizing while others find it unbearable? Neuroscientists were wondering the same thing and res...
U.S. islands and migratory animals
19 Jan 2022
Contributed by Lukas
Migratory animals often use islands while making their long journeys, creating some of the most biodiverse areas. Learn more about this relationship w...
Studying gut health and brain rejuvenation in mice
18 Jan 2022
Contributed by Lukas
Our intestinal health can have a major impact on the rest of our body. Scientists have recently looked into how having a healthy gut can improve brain...
What makes a bug a true bug?
17 Jan 2022
Contributed by Lukas
We commonly refer to most insects as bugs, but how accurate is that term?
Handwriting and learning to read
14 Jan 2022
Contributed by Lukas
In the modern age, there are fewer instances of needing to actually write anything down by hand. Scientists say we should still teach children how to ...
The indigestible goodness of fiber
13 Jan 2022
Contributed by Lukas
If fiber is actually indigestible for humans, why do we keep eating it?
How does sound travel on Mars?
12 Jan 2022
Contributed by Lukas
The Mars Perseverance Rover has collected vital data for studying the red planet, including audio recordings. So how does sound travel on Mars?
How do moths stay safe when mating?
11 Jan 2022
Contributed by Lukas
Humans aren't the only ones who practice safe sex, others in the animal kingdom do as well. Learn how moths protect themselves with A Moment of Scienc...
How knowledge and memory relate
07 Jan 2022
Contributed by Lukas
You might think that knowledge and memory go hand in hand, but the true nature of their relationship is a bit more complicated. Learn more with today'...
Lakes on Mars, or a radar mirage?
06 Jan 2022
Contributed by Lukas
In 2018, evidence for potential liquid water on Mars was announced. This would be a monumental discovery, but arguments since then have repeatedly cas...
Your ear does more than just listen to noise
05 Jan 2022
Contributed by Lukas
Our ears don't just listen to the noises around us, they also make some sound as well. Learn more about otoacoustic emissions with A Moment of Science
Birds in the big city behave differently from those in the country
04 Jan 2022
Contributed by Lukas
Like any environment, there are certain adaptations people take on in order to live in a large metropolitan area. Are the animals that live among us a...
How are defibrillators really used?
03 Jan 2022
Contributed by Lukas
While their use has been popularized by Hollywood in countless medical dramas, the defibrillator isn't actually the miracle machine it's made out to b...
Birds have their own cultures and traditions, too
31 Dec 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Human cultures often benefit from their influence on each other, and scientists wondered if the same can be said for birds. Today's A Moment of Scienc...
The oldest fossils on Earth could shed light on finding signs of past life on Mars
30 Dec 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Single-celled organisms were present on the Earth long before more intelligent life began. Finding fossils of these past life forms on Earth could hel...
Why does having a sore throat hurt so much?
29 Dec 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Why do sore throats hurt? Today's A Moment of Science looks closer at this pesky sickness and a few potential methods for relief.
Confronting brain freeze head on
28 Dec 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Why do we get brain freeze, and always at the least convenient times? Today's A Moment of Science looks closer at this headache.
How our bodies keep us warm
27 Dec 2021
Contributed by Lukas
We're pretty familiar with terms such as 'cold-blooded' and 'warm-blooded,' but they're not the most accurate descriptions for what actually goes on i...