Explainers

In the late 19th century, Karl Weierstrass invented a fractal-like function that was decried as nothing less than a “deplorable evil.” In time, it would transform the foundations of mathematics.

Hypothetical devices that can quickly and accurately answer questions have become a powerful tool in computational complexity theory.

Our computers can get a lot more done when they share the load with other machines.

The security system that underlies the internet makes use of a curious fact: You can broadcast part of your encryption to make your information much more secure.

All modern multicellular life — all life that any of us regularly see — is made of cells with a knack for compartmentalization. Recent discoveries are revealing how the first eukaryote got its start.

A mysterious phenomenon known as duality often leads to new discoveries in physics. This time, space-time itself can sometimes be two things at once.

Machines work with words by embedding their relationships with other words in a string of numbers.

In this article adapted from his new book, "Waves in an Impossible Sea," physicist Matt Strassler explains that the origin of mass in the universe has a lot to do with music.

Like a highway system, the vagus nerve branches profusely from your brain through your organs to marshal bodily functions, including aspects of mind such as mood, pleasure and fear.