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Cryptic crossword #58: Far surpass string theorist from France (7)

27 May 2021

Challenge your brain by solving New Scientist's weekly crosswords on your mobile, tablet or desktop

Is a self-portrait a self-portrait if the portraitist has no self?

26 May 2021

The android that paints itself, plus an area equivalent to over 1000 Mona Lisas and the music of Nǽnøĉÿbbœrğ Vbëřřħōlökäävsŧ in Feedback’s weird weekly round-up

How to source peat-free compost for your garden

26 May 2021

This month, the UK announced that peat-based composts would no longer be sold to home gardeners by 2024. Luckily there are plenty of good alternatives, says Clare Wilson

This week’s new questions

26 May 2021

Why do we experience music that is out of tune as unpleasant? And what would happen to Earth if the sun suddenly disappeared?

Why do some people struggle to tell right from left?

26 May 2021

How did the concepts of left and right emerge in the first place, and are port and starboard better alternatives? Readers give insight from a Scottish fishing town and flying lessons

What is the smallest body of water in which tides can be detected?

26 May 2021

From a thimbleful of water to a massive tank and an entire sea – would these still be influenced by the pull of gravity from the moon and sun?

Why does anger make us stronger, yet we become weak with laughter?

26 May 2021

The link between emotions and motion has a surprising impact on our strength, according to research carried out by a reader. And swearing affects strength too

Puzzle #115: Can you work out where Roman the robot will end up?

26 May 2021

Can you solve this week’s fiendish puzzle, A random robot? Plus the answer to puzzle #114

8 beautiful photographs of seeds and fruits

26 May 2021

The Hidden Beauty of Seeds and Fruits by photographer Levon Biss showcases a branch of botany dedicated to the study of seeds and fruit called carpology