Essential Science

It's Black Birders Week—Here's Why Celebrating Black Scientists and Naturalists Matters

From May 31 to June 5, follow along as Black Birders Week highlights the experiences and expertise of Black scientists and naturalists.

Earth as captured from near the lunar horizon by the Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter in 2015.

The Science Behind Why the Earth Isn't Flat

Let's review why and how we've known for at least 2300 years that the Earth is round.

How Long to Steep Your Tea, According to Science

You're a quick chemistry lesson away from a better brew.

What Is Death?

Defining it is more complicated than you think.

What Is a Calorie?

Let's break it down.

What Is a Scientific Theory?

A theory in science is very different from a theory in everyday conversation.

How Are Vaccines Made?

As researchers work quickly to develop a vaccine for the new coronavirus, let's take a look at the different processes for creating life-saving vaccines for multiple diseases.

What Is Infinity?

Let's try to wrap our heads around it.

What Is a GMO?

You hear the term tossed about, but what does it really mean?

What Is Antibiotic Resistance?

Someone else's use of the drugs can potentially make your own bacteria resistant to antibiotics.

What Is Gluten?

In 2014, talk show host Jimmy Kimmel summed up L.A.'s consensus on the subject: "It's comparable to Satanism." But what is it?