Fluid Dynamics

Have you ever wondered why walking from point A to B can be easy in some places, and incredibly frustrating in others? Well, scientists have uncovered the mathematical equation that underpins how foot traffic can collectively descend into utter chaos.

We’re willing to bet you’ve never given much thought to how bugs urinate, but even if you did you probably wouldn’t imagine them using butt-based pinball paddles to flick drops of pee at 40 G’s, using physics never before seen in nature.

Researchers at MIT have observed “electron whirlpools” for the first time. The bizarre behavior arises when electricity flows as a fluid, which could make for more efficient electronics.

To make sure that astronauts are suitably caffeinated, the Italian coffee company Lavazza is developing the ISSpresso; the first espresso machine built to meet the needs of astronauts who need a decent jolt before facing the day.

Flying snakes flatten out their bodies after launching themselves from trees, proceeding to glide through the air. Recently, scientists figured out why that technique works as well as it does. Their findings could have some major applications for us humans.