Magnetic leaves could see trees used as low-cost air quality monitors

Advances in technology have allowed for some high-tech ways to monitor air quality, from satellites that orbit the Earth to art installations that light up when pollutants are low. Scientists at the University of Utah have come up with a relatively low… Continue reading Magnetic leaves could see trees used as low-cost air quality monitors

Astronomers detect strongest known magnetic field in the universe

Astronomers have detected the strongest magnetic field ever observed in the universe. Studying powerful X-ray signals coming from a neutron star, the team calculated that its magnetic field is tens of millions of times stronger than any ever created in… Continue reading Astronomers detect strongest known magnetic field in the universe

Non-magnetic material made magnetic using electricity for the first time

Researchers have for the first time managed to use electricity to switch on magnetism in a material that’s normally non-magnetic. The find could be a step towards making electronic components out of common materials that might not otherwise be suitable… Continue reading Non-magnetic material made magnetic using electricity for the first time

Tiny battery-free implant could stimulate neurons to treat disorders

When it comes to the treatment of certain neurological conditions, doctors are increasingly looking to battery-powered implants that stimulate parts of the brain. Now, however, scientists have developed one that’s externally powered by magnetic fields…. Continue reading Tiny battery-free implant could stimulate neurons to treat disorders

Magnetic stimulation enhances brain activity, aiding stroke recovery

Early results presented at the American Stroke Association’s International Stroke Conference in Los Angeles suggest non-invasive magnetic brain stimulation can enhance brain activity in patients after stroke. It is hoped the device could speed up recov… Continue reading Magnetic stimulation enhances brain activity, aiding stroke recovery

Twisted graphene exhibits previously-unseen form of magnetism

As a flat sheet of carbon atoms arranged in a lattice, graphene is pretty simple, and yet it keeps surprising scientists with new properties. For the latest in this long line of breakthroughs, a team from Stanford has shown that graphene arra… Continue reading Twisted graphene exhibits previously-unseen form of magnetism

Berkeley Labs creates first fully magnetic liquids

Magnets as we know them are always solid, but the closest thing we have to a magnetic liquid is a class called of liquids called ferrofluids. Made up of iron-oxide particles suspended in liquids, these materials are only magnetic temporarily,… Continue reading Berkeley Labs creates first fully magnetic liquids

What Happens if the Magnetic North Pole Keeps Rushing Toward Siberia?

On Monday, the World Magnetic Model was updated to account for the north pole’s eccentric behavior, after a delay caused by the US federal shutdown. Continue reading What Happens if the Magnetic North Pole Keeps Rushing Toward Siberia?

Scientists Solve the Mystery of Why the Northern and Southern Lights Don’t Match

A leading explanation for the different patterns seen in Earth’s northern and southern auroras has been ruled out. Continue reading Scientists Solve the Mystery of Why the Northern and Southern Lights Don’t Match