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This week’s new questions

Why did the ice cubes in my drink melt more slowly in hot Spain compared with when in the cool UK? And why are the front wheels of my car always much dirtier than the rear ones?

10 May 2023

JMD2WX refreshing lemonade drink with mint lime lemon in garden

Olga Miltsova/Alamy

In Spain recently, in temperatures around 34⁰C, the ice cubes in my drink took far longer to melt compared with at home, where it is much colder. Why the difference?

Penny McDonald,

Robin Hood’s Bay, North Yorkshire, UK

R2YAK1 Professional washer in black uniform and cap wiping with sponge car wheel of a luxury car during the washing process outdoors

RossHelen editorial/Alamy

Wheely dirty Why are the front wheels of my car always much dirtier than the rear ones?

Rob Jones,

Shetland, UK

To answer this question – or ask a new one – email lastword@newscientist.com.

Questions should be scientific enquiries about everyday phenomena, and both questions and answers should be concise. We reserve the right to edit items for clarity and…

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