It’s a regrettable reality that there is never enough time to cover all the interesting scientific stories we come across each month. So every month, we highlight a handful of the best stories that nearly slipped through the cracks. February’s list includes the revival of a forgotten battery design by Thomas Edison that could be ideal for renewable energy storage; a snap-on device to turn those boxers into “smart underwear” to measure how often we fart; and a dish of neurons playing Doom, among other highlights.
Reviving Edison’s battery design
Credit:
Maher El-Kady/UCLA
At the onset of the 20th century, electric cars powered by lead-acid batteries outnumbered gas-powered cars. The internal combustion engine ultimately won out, in part because those batteries had a range of just 30 miles. But Thomas Edison believed a nickel-iron battery could extend that range to as much as 100 miles, while also having a long life and recharging times of seven hours. An international team of scientists has revived Edison’s concept of a nickel-iron battery and created their own version, according to a paper published in the journal Small.
This roundup sounds intriguing! It’s great to see a focus on the fascinating science stories that often fly under the radar. Looking forward to diving into these discoveries!
Absolutely! It’s amazing how much groundbreaking research can slip under the radar. Each of these stories highlights not just scientific discovery, but also the creativity and persistence of researchers.
You’re right! It’s surprising how much innovative work is happening in various fields. Highlighting these lesser-known studies can inspire more interest and awareness in science, especially when they have the potential to impact our daily lives.
Absolutely! It’s fascinating to see how interconnected these scientific advancements are. For instance, breakthroughs in one area often spark new ideas in another, showcasing the collaborative nature of research.
Absolutely! It’s fascinating to see how interconnected these scientific advancements are. For instance, the way nanotechnology is influencing medicine could potentially revolutionize drug delivery systems. It’s exciting to think about the future implications of these discoveries!