Phys.org

Phys.org is a news platform focused on science, research, and technology, with an emphasis on core scientific fields such as physics, space science, earth science, biology, chemistry, electronics, and nanotechnology. The site is recognized for its prompt updates regarding scientific discoveries and press releases from prominent research institutions and universities globally. In addition to daily news reports and blogs, Phys.org offers in-depth articles on newly published peer-reviewed scientific studies. It also operates MedicalxPress and TechXplore, which cover news related to medicine and technology, respectively.

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LLMs delve into online debates to create a detailed map of human beliefs

9 hours ago | phys.org | Ingrid Fadelli |Lisa Lock |Robert Egan

Large language models (LLMs), such as the model underpinning the functioning of the well-known conversational platform ChatGPT, have proved to be very promising for summarizing and generating written texts. However, they could also be interesting tools for conducting research rooted in psychology, behavioral science and other scientific disciplines.
Universal embezzlers naturally emerge in critical fermion systems, study finds

1 day ago | phys.org | Ingrid Fadelli |Lisa Lock |Robert Egan

Embezzlement of entanglement is an exotic phenomenon in quantum information science, describing the possibility of extracting entanglement from a resource system without changing its quantum state. In this context, the resource systems play the role of a catalyst, enabling a state transition that would otherwise be impossible, without being consumed in the process. For embezzlement of entanglement to be possible, the resource state needs to be highly entangled.
Tabletop exercises can help us understand and avoid potential conflicts over the moon

2 days ago | phys.org | Evan Gough |Lisa Lock |Andrew Zinin

As different nations begin conducting operations on the lunar surface, humanity's penchant for geopolitical struggles will likely be along for the ride. Tension between nations and/or corporations could grow. There are few rules and treaties that can calm this potential rising tension. What kinds of conflict might erupt and how can it be prevented?
The solar system's greatest mystery may finally be solved

2 days ago | phys.org | Mark Thompson |Lisa Lock |Andrew Zinin

For years, astronomers have been searching for a mysterious ninth planet lurking in the dark outer reaches of our solar system. Now, a team of researchers have taken a completely different approach to this cosmic detective story—instead of looking for reflected sunlight, they're hunting for the planet's own heat signature.
True single-photon source boosts secure key rates in quantum key distribution systems

2 days ago | phys.org | Ingrid Fadelli |Lisa Lock |Robert Egan

Quantum key distribution (QKD), a cryptographic technique rooted in quantum physics principles, has shown significant potential for enhancing the security of communications. This technique enables the transmission of encryption keys using quantum states of photons or other particles, which cannot be copied or measured without altering them, making it significantly harder for malicious parties to intercept conversations between two parties while avoiding detection.
Placenta and hormone levels in the womb may have been key drivers in human brain evolution

2 days ago | phys.org | Stephanie Baum |Robert Egan

The placenta and the hormones it produces may have played a crucial role in the evolution of the human brain, while also leading to the behavioral traits that have made human societies able to thrive and expand, according to a new hypothesis proposed by researchers from the Universities of Cambridge and Oxford.
Do ocean worlds have smaller habitable zones?

3 days ago | phys.org | Evan Gough |Lisa Lock |Robert Egan

Hycean worlds are also called ocean worlds. They're planets covered in oceans that also have thick hydrogen atmospheres. There are no confirmed hycean worlds but many candidates. Even though they're only candidates so far, researchers are curious about their habitability. New research examines the role tidal heating plays in their potential habitability.
Ocean 'greening' at poles could spell changes for fisheries

3 days ago | phys.org | Stephanie Baum |Robert Egan

Ocean waters are getting greener at the poles and bluer toward the equator, according to an analysis of satellite data published in Science on June 19. The change reflects shifting concentrations of a green pigment called chlorophyll made by phytoplankton, photosynthetic marine organisms at the base of the ocean food chain.
Plastic bag bans help: Study finds up to 47% drop in shoreline bag litter

3 days ago | phys.org | Stephanie Baum |Robert Egan

Among the biggest culprits of plastic pollution in the ocean and along shorelines are thin plastic shopping bags, which have low recycling rates and often become litter when they blow away in the wind. Once there, they can entangle animals and break down into harmful microplastics. As awareness of this problem has grown, more than 100 countries have instituted bans or fees on plastic bags.
Two transparent worms shed light on evolution

3 days ago | phys.org | Michael McCarthy |Michael Mccarthy |Stephanie Baum |Robert Egan

Two species of worms have retained remarkably similar patterns in the way they switch their genes on and off despite having split from a common ancestor 20 million years ago, a new study finds. The findings appear in the journal Science.