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American Institute of Physics


The inner lives of molecules

Researchers have developed a new experimental technique to take 3D images of molecules in action, combining two technologies to probe the structure and behavior of molecules. This tool enables experiments with larger molecules that were previously impossible, allowing for better understanding of quantum mechanics in complex systems.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalThe Journal of Chemical Physics·DateApr 4, 2017

Manipulating magnetic textures

A group of researchers has developed a method to control magnetism by curving nanomagnets, inducing chiral textures within the magnetization field. This discovery could lead to stable vortex-antivortex pairs for future data storage and random access memory devices.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalJournal of Applied Physics·DateMar 21, 2017

Bonding chips using inkjet printers

Researchers at the University of Barcelona have developed a new bonding technique for chips using inkjet printers with silver nanoparticles, enabling the creation of rigid and flexible hybrid circuitry. The method uses inkjet printing technology to assemble surface mount devices, achieving high electrical conductivity and reliability.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalJournal of Applied Physics·DateMar 14, 2017

Streamlining the measurement of phonon dispersion

Researchers adapted an instrument for high resolution electron energy loss spectroscopy to reduce the time required to measure phonon dispersion. The device uses a hemispherical electron analyzer and high energy-resolution electron source, allowing surface scientists to measure samples that were previously too cumbersome.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalReview of Scientific Instruments·DateMar 14, 2017

Exploring the mysteries of supercooled water

Physicists at Roma Tre University developed a computer-based simulation to study the interactions of water molecules in supercooled conditions. The study reveals that a specific property of the water network can be used to determine changes in entropy, offering insights into unusual thermodynamic facets of water's activity.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalThe Journal of Chemical Physics·DateFeb 28, 2017

Understanding breakups

Researchers developed a new theory describing the deformation and breakup of nanosized droplets when they strike a surface, enabling improved nanoscale printing and spraying. The model is ready for use in applications but has limitations, such as only applying to nanoscale droplets and Newtonian fluids.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalPhysics of Fluids·DateJan 30, 2017

Surprising results found in the swimming mechanism of microorganism-related model

A new study by B. Ubbo Felderhof reveals that even when thrust and drag average out over a period, periodic shape deformations can lead to net motion in microorganisms and animals, improving upon popular explanations of swimming and flying mechanisms. The research provides an important conceptual clarification of flow theory and has po...

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalPhysics of Fluids·DateJan 24, 2017

Micro-bubbles make big impact

A team of German researchers has developed a way to use microbubbles to power micro-robots wirelessly, offering multiple advantages over previous techniques. The approach allows for individual addressing, no on-board electronics, and scalability to sub-millimeter size.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateNov 22, 2016

What factors are influencing electric vehicle purchases in China?

A study in China found that monthly income, the number of cars a family owns, sustainability, and vehicle comfort are the most influential factors behind buyers' decisions to purchase electric vehicles. The researchers also discovered that age, marital status, and city of residence play a role in consumers' decision-making process.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalJournal of Renewable and Sustainable Energy·DateNov 15, 2016