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An Early Step on the Long, Strange Road to Photosynthesis

An ancient lineage of cyanobacteria is helping biologists uncover an early evolutionary stage of the mind-boggling process that turns light into life.

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How Terry Tao Became an Evangelist for AI in Math

With automated proof-checkers, a problem can be broken up into small chunks, solved bit-by-bit, then reassembled with confidence that every piece is correct. For some, this heralds a new area in mathematical research.

Are Memories Transferable — or Edible?

In the 1960s, worm-training experiments and their strange implications captivated the nation. Columnist Claire L. Evans follows the neuroscientists who attempted to recapture the magic.

Entanglement Builds Space-Time. Now “Magic” Gives It Gravity.

In holographic theories, physicists may have traced the pliability of space-time to its quantum roots: a measure of quantumness known as “magic.”

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Key Chemistry Question Answered, No Quantum Computer Required

Do we need quantum computers to fully understand complex chemical reactions? A new result, decades in the making, shows the surprising power of ordinary “classical” machines.

How We See the Beautiful, Violent Sun

Over hundreds of years, increasingly sophisticated instruments have revealed — and continue to reveal — the secrets of our star.

When Quiet Undersea Volcanoes Turn Disruptive

Earth’s largest volcanic system, hidden in mountain chains under the sea, has long been assumed to erupt only quietly. The shallow seafloor off Iceland tells another story.

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Biggest Breakthroughs in Biology 2025

Chris Young/Quanta Magazine; Carlos Arrojo for Quanta Magazine

Special Features

The Joy of Why


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The podcast returns with 12 all-new episodes that explore the biggest questions in basic science and mathematics.

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How Can Infinity Come in Many Sizes?

Intuition breaks down once we’re dealing with the endless. To begin with: Some infinities are bigger than others.

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Illuminating basic science and math research through public service journalism.

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Quanta 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.

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