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Termites feed through good vibrations

Scientists have discovered that termites use vibrations to determine suitable food sources, a finding that could lead to new methods for reducing termite damage. The study also reveals the 'cocktail party effect' of signal processing, where termites can distinguish between signals from other termites and artificial signals.

SourceCSIRO Australia·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 23, 2005

Good vibrations in the nanoworld

Carbon nanotubes' electronic and mechanical properties are highly dependent on the presence of defects, which alter their vibrational modes and affect electrical conductivity and heat transport. The study demonstrates the importance of understanding these effects for optimizing nanoscale devices.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateSep 28, 2004

Carbon nanotube oscillator might weigh a single atom

Researchers at Cornell University have created a tiny oscillator that uses a carbon nanotube to vibrate at radio frequencies, enabling mass sensing and gas detection capabilities. The device is so small that it can potentially weigh individual atoms, offering new possibilities for scientific research and applications.

SourceCornell University·JournalNature·DateSep 15, 2004

Earthquakes beget earthquakes near and far

Researchers at Penn State found lags between the changes in forces and strength in laboratory simulations, with delays ranging from seconds to weeks after initial earthquakes. The study suggests a competition between compaction and dilation of granules in gouge zones contributes to delayed fault movements.

How backhoes get the shakes

A recent study by Margolis and Shim found that a small movement of the mechanical controls in backhoes can lead to rapid vibration, causing operators to lose control. The problem can be eliminated by stiffening the suspension of the cab or developing automatic control systems.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalJournal of Dynamic Systems Measurement and Control·DateNov 18, 2003

Engineers 'tread' toward quieter tires

Researchers at Purdue University have created a mathematical model to analyze tire vibrations and identify the components that produce the most noise. The model, which creates a visual representation of the tire's vibration pattern like a fingerprint, will help engineers design quieter tires and reduce highway noise.

Smart spacecraft will provide smoother ride

Researchers at Virginia Tech have developed mathematical formulas to reduce vibrations on spacecraft, enabling autonomous decision-making without human programming. The technology will be tested on the International Space Station, which is currently under construction with a budget of $50 billion and expected completion in five years.

Multidimensional technique enhances vibrational spectroscopy

Researchers at the University of Illinois have developed a multidimensional technique that enhances vibrational spectroscopy, allowing for unprecedented detail in studying molecular vibrations. This new method enables femtosecond-resolved snapshots of molecular motions, providing insights into the fundamental mechanics of molecules.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalThe Journal of Physical Chemistry·DateAug 31, 2000

Noise reduction

The Active Tuned Mass Absorber (ATMA) system reduces propeller-induced sound in turbo-prop aircraft, improving passenger comfort and enhancing military surveillance. With over 200 units installed on DC-9 and MD-80 aircraft, ATMA has proven effective in reducing interior noise levels by up to 90%.

Measuring Bonds In A Single Molecule

A team of Cornell University physicists successfully measured the frequency of atomic vibrations in a single molecule of acetylene, providing a new way to identify and study molecular bonds. This technique, called vibrational microscopy, has potential applications in understanding catalysts and biological molecules like DNA.

SourceCornell University·JournalScience·DateJun 11, 1998