physics
Coverage of physics in the Nexus archive.
- 25 things that had to be true for the smartphone to exist
The smartphone's existence required centuries of breakthroughs in physics, chemistry, manufacturing, and global trade converging at the right moment. Key components like transistors and touchscreens were essential to its development.
- Alan Guth
Alan Guth, an M.I.T. cosmologist, discusses topics including physics, federal funding of science, and the resilience of the scientific community.
- How Can Soccer Players Bend Their Shots in Midair?
The article explores the physics behind soccer players' ability to bend their shots during the World Cup. It focuses on the mechanics of how players manipulate the ball's trajectory midair.
- The Engines of Our Ingenuity 3380: Ergodicity
The article discusses the concept of 'Ergodicity,' a term from physics, as explored in Episode 3380 of 'The Engines of Our Ingenuity.' The episode aims to explain the underlying principles of this term.
- What is space-time? A mystery at the heart of reality
A new philosophical analysis challenges the 'block universe' concept, which posits past, present, and future as coexisting in space-time. The argument claims physicists may conflate entities that exist with those that merely occur, leading to confusion about space-time's true nature.
- How jazz boosts my creativity in physics
Stephon Alexander discusses how his passion for jazz and musical improvisation enhances his ability to understand and teach complex physics concepts. The article, published in Nature, highlights the intersection of jazz and physics in fostering creativity.
- 'One of the great unresolved embarrassments of physics': It's been 340 years since Newton and scientists still haven't solved the secret of gravity
The article discusses the ongoing mystery of gravity, 340 years after Newton's work, with the gravitational constant (G) remaining unsolved despite centuries of scientific effort.
- What can we gain by losing infinity?
The article explores the implications of removing the concept of infinity from mathematics and physics, discussing how this might reshape foundational theories. It references debates among mathematicians and physicists about the necessity and consequences of such a shift.
- Coffee with a splash of physics: how to make the most out of your brew
This article explores how physics principles can optimize coffee brewing techniques, offering insights into maximizing flavor and quality. It references Physics World as the source and includes Hacker News comments for discussion.
- The 'Oscars of Science': Breakthrough Prize 2026 awards over $18 million for discoveries across space, physics and more
The Breakthrough Prize 2026 awarded over $18 million for scientific discoveries in space, physics, and other fields. Sergey Brin and Gerelyn Gilbert-Soto were featured at the 12th ceremony held in Santa Monica, California.