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Your finger can feel the change of a single atom in a material

Physics

Your finger can feel the change of a single atom in a material

We mostly tell textures apart by their surface characteristics, but now we know that the human fingertip can sense molecular changes, even if it’s just a single swapped atom

News

Physicists finally worked out why ice is slippery after 150 years

Physics

Physicists finally worked out why ice is slippery after 150 years

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window

Technology

Wood can easily be turned transparent to make energy-saving windows

News

The superconductor breakthrough that could mean an energy revolution

Physics

The superconductor breakthrough that could mean an energy revolution

Features

Chemical that makes chilli peppers spicy boosts solar panel cells

Technology

Chemical that makes chilli peppers spicy boosts solar panel cells

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Diamond anvil

Physics

First room-temperature superconductor could spark energy revolution

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bricks and LED

Physics

Ordinary bricks laced with conductive fibres can store energy

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person walking on hillside

Technology

Fabric repels both oil and water thanks to clever silicone coating

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razor blade

Physics

We just figured out why shaving soft hair blunts steel razor blades

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Angle grinder

Technology

Material that cannot be cut would make the ultimate bike lock

Engineers have created the first artificial material that effectively cannot be cut, holding out the promise of lightweight but cut-proof bike locks, security doors and protective clothing

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Video

Jess Wade: The magic of mirror molecules and incredible nanostructures

Video

Technology

Infrared-reflecting paint can cool buildings even when it is black

News

Technology

Artificial leaves made from aluminium could keep windows frost-free

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Life

Millions of hairy tarantula skins could be used to mop up oil spills

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