Optimistic Observer 10/31/24
By Capital Investment Counsel - October 31, 202
Most Americans Leave Much Longer Than Life Expectancy Suggests
The modal age at death shows the most common age people die, while life expectancy is an average that includes all ages of death. In the U.S., while life expectancy in 2021 was 77 years, the modal age at death was much higher—85 years for men and 89 years for women. Before the pandemic, U.S. women reached a modal age of 90, showing more progress in health and longevity by tracking how many people live to older ages rather than just the average.
Plants Show Surprising Problem-Solving Abilities, Study Finds
Recent research shows that plants may have problem-solving abilities, as they can adapt to environmental challenges using complex chemical signaling. Scientists observed that plants can adjust their growth and resources in response to stress factors like water scarcity, suggesting a form of "intelligent" behavior. This discovery challenges traditional views of intelligence, hinting that problem-solving may not be unique to animals. Read more here.
Scientists Create Tiny Diamonds That Spin 1.2 Billion Times Per Minute, Boosting Future Tech
Scientists at Purdue University discovered a way to make tiny diamonds, or nanodiamonds, with lasers and regular lab tools, which is simpler and cheaper than older methods requiring high pressure. These nanodiamonds, which spun up to 1.2 billion times per minute, have special qualities for advanced tech, like super-powerful computers and ultra-sensitive sensors. This rapid rotation allowed the researchers to study unique quantum effects, helping us understand the fascinating world of quantum physics and potentially speeding up the development of quantum technology by making crucial materials more accessible. Read more here.
NASA Launches Spacecraft That Uses Light to Sail Through Space
NASA has launched an experimental spacecraft that moves using only sunlight, called a solar sail, instead of traditional fuel. This technology works like a sailboat on water, except it uses light from the Sun to push the spacecraft forward. Solar sails could allow us to explore space faster and farther since they don’t need heavy fuel tanks, making long-distance missions more practical. This experiment is a big step toward new ways of exploring the universe without relying on fuel. Read more here.
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