Geology
When the American continents connected
How geological evidence reshaped the proposed timeline for the land bridge—and what that could mean for species movement.
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Physical Science
Explore the forces, particles and planetary processes behind the observable world—from black holes and bosons to storms, volcanoes and moving continents.
Matter & energySpace scienceWeather & Earth systems
Selected explanations
Explore the archive
These enduring stories have been organized by the physical questions they examine. Consult current specialist sources when recent findings matter.
Astrophysics
Why galaxies need black holes
Models examine how energetic black holes can regulate star formation and help explain the galaxies astronomers observe.
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Solar system
What comets preserve
These icy bodies carry clues about conditions in the early solar system and the regions where they formed.
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Observation
Science captured in motion
A collection of observed phenomena showing how recorded motion can reveal behavior, forces and change.
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Earth processes
How volcanoes work
What magma, gases and monitoring instruments reveal—and why forecasting an eruption remains difficult.
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Planetary science
Searching planets for signs of life
How observations of Mars and distant worlds expanded the questions scientists ask about potentially habitable environments.
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Atmospheric science
How tornadoes draw power from air
Examine rotating thunderstorms, warning systems, prediction limits and practical protective structures.
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Lunar science
A new chapter in lunar exploration
Moon missions, rock samples and gravity measurements offer different ways to investigate lunar history and structure.
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Climate & weather
Understanding powerful typhoons
A factual guide to storm intensity, ocean heat and the boundaries of what can be attributed to a changing climate.
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Near-Earth objects
Understanding an asteroid airburst
What one well-recorded event revealed about space rocks, atmospheric entry and the work of identifying future hazards.
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Storm science
How hurricanes form and move
Learn how warm water powers tropical cyclones, how paths are forecast and why uncertainty remains.
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Particle physics
Making sense of the Higgs boson
Why evidence for the elusive particle mattered to physicists and how it fits into an account of particle mass.
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Biomechanics
The physics of pitching
How motion, force and anatomy combine during a pitch—and why the elbow bears such demanding loads.
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Ocean systems
Ocean fish in warming water
How temperature and low-oxygen zones can compress habitat and alter the conditions marine species face.
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Relativity
Why Einstein’s ideas endure
From curved spacetime to precision experiments, examine the predictions that continue to shape modern physics.
Read the explainerReading guide
Using an archive responsibly
Older explainers remain useful for mechanisms and historical context, but science does not stand still.
Begin with the mechanism
Use each story to understand the forces, observations and models behind a phenomenon.
Notice the publication context
Mission status, instruments and scientific interpretations August have changed since original publication.
Check current evidence
For decisions or active research questions, compare archive material with recent specialist sources.
Keep uncertainty visible
Forecasts and models carry limits; a clear explanation should identify rather than conceal them.
Physical science questions
What belongs in physical science?
Physical science examines nonliving systems, including matter, energy, motion, forces, chemistry, astronomy, geology and atmospheric processes.
Why are weather and geology included here?
Both rely heavily on physics and chemistry. Weather involves fluid motion and energy transfer, while geology examines material properties, heat and planetary processes.
Are the archive articles newly published?
No. This is an organized archive of earlier explainers. The surrounding page was reviewed on 2 August 2026, but linked articles retain their historical context.
Can I use these stories for schoolwork?
They can provide background and useful questions. Cite the article you use and compare older material with current textbooks or authoritative scientific sources.
Does an older forecast remain current?
Not necessarily. Forecasting tools, observations and models improve, so consult current official guidance for weather, volcanic or asteroid hazards.
Where can I find more archive pages?
Use the older-posts link above to continue through the physical science collection, or browse another scientific field from the archive guide.