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Science

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Sense and Sensitivity

Great whites have tiny brains but powerful sensory organs

These rocks don’t lose their shape: thanks to recent advances, scientists can grow gems (from Apollo) and industrial diamonds in a matter of days.

Diamonds on Demand

Lab-grown gemstones are now practically indistinguishable from mined diamonds. Scientists and engineers see a world of possibilities

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On the Origin of a Theory

Charles Darwin’s bid for enduring fame was sparked 150 years ago by word of a rival’s research

Crown Koh-i-noor Diamond

Gem Gawking

Where to See Famous Diamonds

An American alligator

Wild Things: Life as We Know It

America’s oldest primate, ocean dead zones and alligator lungs

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Who’s Laughing Now?

Long maligned as nasty scavengers, hyenas turn out to be protective parents and accomplished hunters

Dr. Murray operates on one of the Zoo’s gorillas.

On the Job: Zoo Veterinarian

Suzan Murray talks about making house calls at the nation’s zoo

The Hoover Dam in 1933

Excessive Withholding

Household items made of various types of plastic

Cut Your Use of Plastic, Plastic, Plastic

Recycling isn’t enough

Kitchen with stove and oven of a Roman inn (Mansio) at the Roman villa of Bad Neuenahr-Ahrweiler, Germany

Green Your Kitchen

A Thirsty Nation

What can you do to reduce water consumption?

A schematic of modern thermohaline circulation.

Expand Your Eco-Influence

What can you do to reduce water consumption?

Carbon Blob Eats US!

What can you do to reduce water consumption?

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