/oss/taxonomy/term/2252/all en /oss/article/general-science-health-and-nutrition-you-asked/cell-phones-and-wifi-are-perfectly-safe <p>The idea that cell phones, routers, wireless heart rate monitors, alarm clocks or pretty much any other electronic device will give you cancer is one of the most persistent fears around. The good news is, it’s also one of the most baseless.</p> Sun, 18 Jun 2017 14:12:32 +0000 Ada McVean B.Sc. 2551 at /oss /oss/article/did-you-know-general-science/it-really-dangerous-use-your-phone-plane <p>The fear behind the rule of ‘no phones on planes’ is that portable electronic devices could potentially interfere via electromagnetic radiation with the measurement and navigation tools on board. Modern planes, however, are built incredibly resistant to electromagnetic radiation, they can actually withstand a lightning strike without instrument problems, and so the small amounts of radiation from your devices aren’t likely to bring down the plane. </p> <hr /> <p><a href="https://twitter.com/adamcvean">@AdaMcVean</a></p> Thu, 11 May 2017 21:46:06 +0000 Ada McVean B.Sc. 2441 at /oss /oss/article/general-science/microwave-confusion <p>The scientists working at the Raytheon Company during World War II were undoubtedly highly stressed.  Britain was being attacked by Nazi warplanes and their task was to develop an electronic system capable of tracking the invading aircraft.  Rising to the challenge, the researchers came up with “radar,” which helped change the course of the war and made possible the extensive air travel we enjoy today.  Lots of coffee must have been consumed during those pressure-packed days at Raytheon, with cups sometimes getting cold as they were left sitting on a bench as the research heated up.  But no</p> Wed, 05 Apr 2017 14:37:47 +0000 Joe Schwarcz 2388 at /oss