Pitching the biomechanics
Adding science to the art of throwing a baseball
The fate of baseball teams valued at hundreds of millions of dollars and followed by millions of rabid fans can come down to the elbow ligaments of a handful of young men who can throw a ball nearly 100 mph. But that doesn’t mean the best science guides their training. More »
Dunewatching, Martian style
Watching dunes drift
New pix from Mars show sand dunes on the move. Mars has been dry for 1.5 billion years; could massive erosion be due to wind? Yes, says a new report that tracked dunes with precise new images. Surprise: dunes move as fast on Mars as on Earth! More »
Science Teachers: Hip yourself to a great resource!
Teaching the science standards? Looking for extra-credit projects?
Science Teachers: Hip yourself to a great resource!
Teaching the science standards? Looking for extra-credit projects?
For 15 years, we've presented the science behind the news. The Why Files are accurate, engaging, entertaining and educational. Check our links from national science teaching standards to specific Why Files -- all 750 of them! Whether it's geology or archaeology, weather or human behavior, The Why Files has it covered. More »
In The News
Tracking fracking: U.S. proposes mandatory lists of chemicals
A high-pressure technique to break rocks caused an explosion of natural gas production -- and alarming reports of groundwater pollution. How does fracking work? Can it be done safely?
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Junior Seau kills himself; famed linebacker, 43, was second veteran NFL suicide in 2 months. Was it due to brain damage?
Impacts and concussions can cause long-lasting, even permanent brain damage. Millions of Americans have traumatic brain injuries. Could experimental techniques help mice and people?
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First time: Wild whooping cranes hatches in Wis. refuge!
Refuge is site of effort to use ultralight aircraft to guide crane chicks toward Florida wintering grounds. Dangers remain, but it's a step ahead for Americas' largest flying bird, once reduced to 21 animals.
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World Trade Center again tallest building in New York!
What did the losing World Trade designs look like? What is the significance of a city skyline?
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Mass murderer on trial in Norway. What explains these killings?
Why do mass killers pull the trigger? What are the warning signs of "rampage" shootings?
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