Science Magazine Podcast
A new kind of magnetism, and how smelly pollution harms pollinators
Feb 8, 2024
Researchers discuss a new kind of magnetism in nature that could lead to advancements in electronics. They also explore how air pollution affects pollinators and their activities, potentially disrupting nocturnal plant-pollinator interactions. The episode highlights the impact of smelly pollution on wildlife and the degradation of floral scents by pollutants.
31:21
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Quick takeaways
- Ultra-magnetism is a new type of magnetism that combines characteristics of both ferro and anti-ferromagnets, potentially leading to faster information processing and denser electronic devices.
- Air pollution, specifically nitrates and ozone, can degrade floral scents and reduce the attraction of pollinators to flowers, highlighting the importance of reducing pollution for plant-pollinator interactions.
Deep dives
A New Kind of Magnetism: Ultra-Magnetism
A freelance science writer discusses a new type of magnetism called ultra-magnetism. Unlike the traditional types of magnets, ferro and anti-ferromagnets, ultra-magnetic materials exhibit characteristics of both types. One such material, ruthenium dioxide, was found to have properties of both ferro and anti-ferromagnets, leading to the discovery of ultra-magnetism. The researchers suggest that there may be around 200 to 300 materials that exhibit this phenomenon. While the applications of ultra-magnetism are still being explored, it has the potential for faster information processing and denser electronic devices.
