Science
From mathematics and AI to medicine and psychology, The Optimist Daily features the latest news on discoveries, technological advances, and breakthroughs in the world of science. Our Science section is here to engage and enlighten you.
Study: EVs are hundreds of times less wasteful than gas models
Electric vehicles eliminate the harmful emissions of their gas and diesel-powered counterparts, but there is still environmental concern regarding the raw materials used in their production, specifically in batteries. While battery circularity is improving, a new study has found that even with Read More...
Scientists observe whale sharks regrowing damaged fins for the first time
Whale sharks are remarkable creatures, known to be the largest fish on Earth. Such a grand title draws a lot of attention from tourists and marine life enthusiasts and this popularity means they are also at a higher risk of injury due to interactions with boats and people contending for a glimpse Read More...
Northeastern project shows how green infrastructure saves lives and money
We all know that biking and walking are good for our physical health, but it turns out the benefits of promoting these healthy transportation options go far beyond personal health and wellness. A new study analyzing the health and economic benefits of a proposed green infrastructure project found Read More...
Scientists use underwater cables to detect earthquakes and tsunamis
On top of the fact that earthquakes and tsunamis are some of the most destructive natural phenomenons humanity faces, they are impossible to predict. To make things easier, a team of scientists has recently come up with a technique that turns underwater telecommunications cables into earthquake Read More...
FCC approves internet subsidies to bridge digital divide during pandemic
The pandemic has highlighted the importance of digital equity, but it has also emphasized the digital divide that still exists. In an effort to bridge this divide, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has approved the Emergency Broadband Benefit Program to provide internet subsidies to Read More...
A net zero America would boost GDP by $1 trillion
Reaching net-zero emissions is critical for mitigating further damage from climate change on our planet, and while the planetary survival motivation alone should push us to achieve this goal, a new report has detailed the immense economic benefits that would also accompany this transition. A Read More...
This zero-emission delivery zone aims to reduce traffic and air pollution
The downtown of Santa Monica, California, has recently become the nation’s first zero-emission delivery zone, meaning that whenever someone gets a delivery there, chances are that it will arrive via an electrified vehicle — be it an electric delivery truck, an electric scooter, a smart delivery Read More...
DC NASA headquarters renamed after agency’s first Black female engineer
Mary Jackson, NASA’s first Black female engineer, was one of the scientists featured in the film Hidden Figures. Now, the pioneering engineer will be honored as NASA renames their DC headquarters the Mary W Jackson Headquarters Building. The new name became official with a virtual ceremony Read More...
Common virtual meeting pitfalls and how to overcome them
Do you find yourself getting antsier on Zoom meetings or having more difficulty focusing? If so, you may be experiencing Zoom fatigue. As much as we try, it’s difficult to achieve the same level of connection and communication in virtual meetings as in person. However, if you’re struggling with Read More...
Mentorship program leads two students to discover new exoplanets
The Student Research Mentoring Program at the Center for Astrophysics, Harvard & Smithsonian trains local high school students for a month before pairing them with a scientist for a year-long research project. The program is a great opportunity to give students hands-on experience in the field Read More...