All articles tagged with #crystals
Two well-preserved fossilized dinosaur eggs with internal crystal formations were discovered in China's Anhui province, attributed to a new oospecies, Shixingoolithus qianshanensis, highlighting the region's rich paleontological record and the preservation of ancient nesting sites.
Scientists have developed a novel laser-based technique to 'draw' crystals precisely where needed in electronic devices using plasmonic heating of gold nanoparticles, potentially reducing costs and improving performance in applications like solar cells and sensors.
Scientists have discovered that on Saturn's moon Titan, polar and non-polar molecules like hydrogen cyanide and hydrocarbons can form stable co-crystals at extremely cold temperatures, challenging traditional chemical rules and suggesting complex interactions in Titan's lakes that could influence its geology and potential prebiotic chemistry.
A semiconductor wafer with crystals grown aboard the International Space Station was imaged under a microscope, demonstrating the potential of microgravity to improve the quality of semimetal-semiconductor crystals for electronic devices, addressing challenges faced on Earth in producing pure, uniform crystals.
The article predicts that the Kirby: Star-Crossed World DLC will reveal new lore involving crystals and star characters called Starries, who may be responsible for sealing away evil entities like Void Termina and Galacta Knight, with hints suggesting possible appearances or references to these characters.
A new study reveals that 'space ice' contains tiny crystals and is not fully amorphous as previously thought, which has implications for understanding cosmic processes and the origins of life. The research shows that low-density amorphous ice in space includes embedded crystalline structures, challenging earlier assumptions and opening new questions about the nature of amorphous materials.
Researchers have solved a 120-year-old mystery regarding the compound acetaldehyde phenylhydrazone, which exhibits two distinct melting points. The phenomenon is due to a minuscule contamination that causes the compound to form two different liquid structures upon melting, depending on exposure to acid or base. This results in the compound having a lower melting point when exposed to acid, which acts as a catalyst for isomer conversion. The study highlights the compound's sensitivity to acid and the role of isomer configurations in its melting behavior.
A new study of the world's oldest zircon crystals from the Jack Hills in Western Australia reveals that Earth had both oceans and freshwater lakes as early as 4 billion years ago. This discovery suggests that the early Earth had conditions suitable for the formation of life, with evidence of both fresh and salty water exposure in the zircons. The findings challenge previous theories and indicate that the planet was more similar to today's Earth than previously thought. The study is published in Nature Geoscience.
Researchers at New York University have developed a technique called "Crystal Clear" that allows scientists to visualize the internal structure of colloidal crystals in three dimensions. Using transparent particles, dye molecules, and confocal microscopy, they can create dynamic models to study the arrangement and defects within crystals, providing new insights into crystallization processes and potentially aiding in the development of better materials.
Scientists have developed the first mineral-based treatment for hyperkalemia, a widespread disease affecting millions worldwide, using the structure of crystals. The treatment, based on the crystal structure of cubic zirconium silicate, allows patients to flush out excess potassium through ion transfer, offering a potentially safer and more durable alternative to existing medications with harmful side effects and dietary restrictions. This breakthrough opens the door to more advanced mineral-based treatments for various illnesses in the future.
Karol G made a stunning red carpet appearance at the Billboard Women In Music awards, donning a see-through silver gown covered in shimmering crystals from Zuhair Murad’s Spring/Summer 2024 Couture collection. The Colombian reggaeton singer, honored as Woman of the Year, expressed her joy and pride at receiving the award, emphasizing the significance of the recognition for women in the music industry.
Aries, today's horoscope advises you to let go of past insecurities and challenge yourself to face your fears. The universe is supporting you to become the best version of yourself. Consider working with yellow calcite and/or tiger's eye crystals for guidance.
Princess Kate wore the Lover's Knot Tiara, a favorite of Princess Diana's, to attend the annual Diplomatic Corps reception at Buckingham Palace. She paired the tiara with a sparkling long-sleeved evening gown covered in blush-pink sequins and silver crystal embellishments. This is the second time she has worn the tiara in 2022, having previously worn it in November.
Scientists have finally solved the "Dolomite Problem" that has puzzled researchers for 200 years. Dolomite, a mineral found in ancient rock formations, has resisted attempts to grow it in the lab. However, a team of scientists has now successfully grown dolomite crystals by using an electron beam to dissolve and then saturate the crystal. This breakthrough not only solves a long-standing geological mystery but also has potential applications in manufacturing defect-free materials for semiconductors, solar panels, and batteries.
Crystals form when molecules with similar properties come together and stick, forming chemical bonds. They require special conditions and a nucleation site to grow on. Crystals can form from dissolved molecules in water or from cooling magma. Different types of crystals can provide valuable information to scientists, such as the age of rocks and environmental conditions. Some crystals grow through metamorphism, and larger crystals can form when there is more space for growth. Certain crystals are also used as gemstones for jewelry.