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American Institute of Physics


Fighting intolerance with physics

A complex system economic model shows that inequality boosts intolerance, but redistribution of wealth can prevent its spread. Economically disfavored individuals from minority groups may prioritize helping wealthy individuals over their own group when discriminated against.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalChaos An Interdisciplinary Journal of Nonlinear Science·DateMar 14, 2023

Elegantly modeling earth’s abrupt glacial transitions

Stefano Pierini proposes a new paradigm to simplify the verification of the Milankovitch hypothesis, combining physics concepts to link orbital parameters and glacial cycles. The deterministic excitation paradigm correctly predicts the timing of recent glacial terminations, offering insights into climate predictability.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalChaos An Interdisciplinary Journal of Nonlinear Science·DateMar 7, 2023

The roar and crackle of Artemis 1

Researchers measured noise levels at locations around the launch pad, finding maximum sound levels exceeded predicted values by nearly 20 decibels. The study's findings will help validate and improve existing noise prediction models to protect equipment and surrounding environments.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalJASA Express Letters·DateFeb 14, 2023

A butterfly flaps its wings and scientists make jewelry

Researchers from the University of Calabria used 3D printing to turn chaotic structures into unique jewelry, exploring the beauty of complex systems. The project combines art and science, allowing students to develop their knowledge and creativity by building and designing their own Chua circuit-inspired jewelry.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalChaos An Interdisciplinary Journal of Nonlinear Science·DateJan 24, 2023

Cooling down solar cells, naturally

Researchers found that optimizing solar panel spacing and direction can increase energy production by 2-3% through natural convection. The study's model improves estimates of solar plant efficiency, paving the way for more accurate cost predictions.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalJournal of Renewable and Sustainable Energy·DateNov 29, 2022

The interplay between epidemics, prevention information, and mass media

A new model examines the interplay between epidemic spreading and information diffusion to understand how reliable info can be better disseminated during epidemics. Effective prevention practices and mass media can increase the epidemic threshold, making it harder for infections to spread.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalChaos An Interdisciplinary Journal of Nonlinear Science·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 22, 2022

Saturn V was loud but didn't melt concrete

Researchers used physics-based models and historical data to debunk internet claims about the Saturn V's acoustic power, finding levels of 203 decibels, comparable to commercial jet engines. The study also predicts sound levels for NASA's SLS Artemis 1 launch and provides educational tools for college-level physics classrooms.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalThe Journal of the Acoustical Society of America·DateAug 23, 2022