The world, the universe and us Emergency in Antarctica; How movement changes the brain; Why women live longer than men
24 snips
Oct 2, 2025 
In this discussion, science journalist Madeleine Cuff reveals alarming data on the dramatic temperature rises in Antarctica, exploring the implications for the polar vortex and sea ice loss. Meanwhile, science writer Caroline Williams delves into fascinating mobile EEG research, discovering how movement affects our brain's auditory attention. The talk also touches on why women generally outlive men, linking it to sex chromosomes and intriguing studies from birds. It’s a captivating mix of climate science, brain research, and the mysteries of life span.
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Antarctic Polar Vortex And Sea Ice Shift
- Antarctic polar vortex weakening has allowed atmospheric temperatures to spike by over 35°C since early September.
- Scientists link this to record low sea ice extents and worry it may indicate a tipping point in Antarctic climate dynamics.
Sea Ice Loss Accelerates Warming
- Loss of Antarctic sea ice lowers albedo and exposes darker ocean waters that absorb more heat, accelerating warming.
- Exposed land ice and warmer oceans raise risk of large, long-term global sea level rise and ecosystem collapse.
Human Influence And Ocean Upwelling Role
- Researchers extend sea ice records with proxies and find the 2023 record lows are extremely unlikely (<0.1%) from natural variability.
- Warmer circumpolar deep water, likely mixed upward by changing winds and salinity, prevents typical sea ice formation.
