Browse Physics

New simulations better explain how Fibonacci patterns can emerge from the biochemical processes driving a plant’s growth.

Cosmic-ray-induced discharges from tiny bits of water or ice in thunderclouds may explain how a lightning strike is initiated.

Hairlike sensory cells in our ears may detect weak auditory signals through a synchronization process, according to new experiments.

Time-reversing the signals generated by a nonlinear element could form the basis of a new secure communications protocol in the midst of chaotic waves.

Convective mixing of fluids goes faster when the container is tilted—a finding that may impact the choosing of geological sites for carbon dioxide storage.

A study reveals the optimal balance of forces needed to make the cleanest cuts in soft solids.

A new network dynamics model captures the simultaneous evolution of both the nodes of a network and the connections between them.

A simple robot demonstrates the timing and motion necessary to make the highest jumps, with parallels to human jumping.

Cosmic rays may be used to capture images of damaged reactors at the Fukushima power plant in Japan.

Methods from statistical physics and graph theory help uncover the structure of human language.

A phase transition controlled by noise determines how volatile rankings are.

A network model reveals optimal configurations for withstanding random failure or targeted attacks.

Some ecological communities may be acutely sensitive to the survival of certain key species, thanks to the details of the species’ interdependence, according to simulations.

Researchers find the source of an epidemic using relatively little information. Their technique could also help authorities track down contamination in water systems or locate problems in electrical grids.