Scientists get up to speed on phenomena ranging from fast moving atmospheric plasmas to a quickening glacial pace on Earth.
Earth science
A Common Language for Reporting Earthquake Intensities
Scientists are working together to establish a standardized international scale for measuring and reporting the intensities and impacts of earthquake shaking.
Bayesian Inversion Used to Recover Geometry of Ruptured Fault
A new Bayesian inversion framework is used to solve non-planar geometry of a ruptured fault from spatially variable slip and rake measured with geodesy.
Hypoxia Affects One in Eight Rivers Worldwide
A global study found dangerously low levels of dissolved oxygen in rivers around the world. The true prevalence of hypoxia is probably even higher.
As the Arctic Warms, These Rivers Are Slowing Down
The Arctic is warming up, but instead of large rivers migrating faster, they’re actually slowing down because of shrubification.
Neural Networks Map the Ebb and Flow of Tiny Ponds
Ponds play an outsized role in carbon emissions, but their size makes them hard to track. Enter machine learning.
Biden Administration Considers Unprecedented Solution to Colorado River Crisis
As Colorado River Basin states prove unable to reach a consensus in reducing their water consumption, the U.S. Department of the Interior is investigating an option that defies the Law of the River.
What We Know and Don’t Know About Climate Tipping Elements
As climate change continues, parts of the Earth system such as ice sheets, frozen soils, or the Amazon rainforest could shift—some quickly, some slowly—after crossing key thresholds or tipping points.
Felt Reports Could Shake Up Earthquake Response
Firsthand accounts of earthquake impacts could aid in identifying people who require help as well as increasing safety in some areas.