Rare earth elements are making smartphones, electric cars, wind turbines, and medical imaging equipment a part of our lives. However, how we obtain these materials can seriously damage the earth if it’s not done responsibly. So how exactly does rare earth mining impact the economy and environment of our world?
Continue readingCategory: Student STEM Columns
Student STEM Columns are submitted by high school or advanced middle school students who wish to share their passion for STEM. Students interested in submitting a column should email us at info@areteem.org.
Slowing the Rising Trend of Myopia Through Medicated Eyedrops
Nearly half of the US population, approximately 41.6%, is affected by myopia or nearsightedness, which is roughly twice the number of cases reported five decades ago. However, recent studies have found that medicated eye drops are able to delay the condition among children.
Continue readingOldest Known DNA Uncovers Mysteries in Greenland
The new advances in technologies regarding DNA have pushed many discoveries in the past few years. In December 2022, a groundbreaking finding has been revealed. The two million-year-old microscopic DNA fragments found in frozen soil in Greenland are now the oldest DNA ever obtained.
Continue readingWhy People Have Superstitions – Believing the Unbelievable
A man woke up, walked down the hall, and found himself accidentally breaking a mirror. He then walked under a ladder in a crowded street and ran across a few black cats. At the end of the day, he entered a hotel and was put in room thirteen. He then realized that it all happened on Friday the Thirteenth. All of these “signs” are superstitions — belief in unjustified supernatural forces. Is there science behind any of these? Surprisingly, yes, but that doesn’t mean they are proven to be real.
Continue readingDreams: The Science of the Unconscious World
How many times have you wished that your dreams truly mean something in your life? In recent years, scientists have found out that they are nothing but random images our subconscious minds receive while we sleep. This doesn’t mean that they hold no significance, though.
Continue readingDiamonds on Mercury
The treasures Mercury holds might be more than we think. Just a year ago, not much was known about Mercury due to its extreme climate. With a temperature ranging from 801 °F to −279 °F, it is hard for humans to physically explore it. Does this mean it’s impossible to find out more about this intriguing planet?
Continue reading