By genetically instructing cells to perform tasks that they wouldn’t in nature, synthetic biologists can learn deep secrets about how life works. Steven Strogatz discusses the potential of this young field with researcher Michael Elowitz.
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Coloring by Numbers Reveals Arithmetic Patterns in Fractions
In a recent paper, two mathematicians showed that a particular pattern is unavoidable when fractions are categorized.
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Cosmologists are using secondary signatures from the cosmic microwave background to map the universe’s hidden matter.
The Researcher Who Would Teach Machines to Be Fair
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Room-Temperature Superconductor Discovery Meets With Resistance
A paper in Nature reports the discovery of a superconductor that operates at room temperatures and near-room pressures. The claim has divided the research community.
Black Holes Will Eventually Destroy All Quantum States, Researchers Argue
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How Supergenes Fuel Evolution Despite Harmful Mutations
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Illuminating basic science and math research through public service journalism.
More about usQuanta Magazine is committed to in-depth, accurate journalism that serves the public interest. Each article braids the complexities of science with the malleable art of storytelling and is meticulously reported, edited and fact-checked. Launched and funded by the Simons Foundation, Quanta is editorially independent — our articles do not reflect or represent the views of the foundation.
