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Last word

¿ìè¶ÌÊÓƵ's popular Last Word series gives readers the opportunity to answer each other's questions about everyday science phenomena, from the shape of scones to the evolutionary history of toenails. To answer a question or ask a new one, email lastword@newscientist.com

This sequence of artist's illustrations shows how a black hole can devour a bypassing star. 1. A normal star passes near a supermassive black hole in the center of a galaxy. 2. The star's outer gasses are pulled into the black hole's gravitational fie

Last Word

Do black holes look doughnut-shaped when viewed in all directions?

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3BHN5M7 A woman holds a sign that reads Greed is not a virtue during a protest across the street from Florida Congresswoman Maria Elvira Salazar's Office.

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What is the evolutionary basis for greed?

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This week’s new questions

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This week’s new questions

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2K18TC6 London, UK. 16th Sep, 2022. Shaikha Al Mazrou, Red Stack, 2022, Lawrie Shabibi - Frieze Sculpture, one of the largest outdoor exhibitions in London, including work by international artists in Regent's Park. Credit: Guy Bell/Alamy Live News

Last Word

This week’s new questions

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MB9M93 Monster Truck Jumping Mid Air

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What are the pros and cons of using carbon dioxide in tyres? part 2

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Planet in water - Moon. Science fiction art. Solar system. Elements of this image furnished by NASA; Shutterstock ID 579784837; purchase_order: -; job: -; client: -; other:

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If all Earth’s water were put in a ball, how large would it be?

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Disappointed woman packing for a journey: she is standing in front of her suitcase overfilled with clothes, travel and vacations concept; Shutterstock ID 2314449417; purchase_order: -; job: -; client: -; other:

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How do you get the most clothes into a suitcase? part 2

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cofee cup on the sand at the sunset; Shutterstock ID 1450632401; purchase_order: -; job: -; client: -; other:

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I'm in an arid desert with some caffeinated coffee. Should I drink it?

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fluffy Persian kitten walking on the piano; Shutterstock ID 162425339; purchase_order: -; job: -; client: -; other:

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What do animals hear when music is played to them?

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ENTETC Robin, (Erithacus rubecula), garden bird standing on top of a branch in winter, UK

Last Word

This week’s new questions

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Neon Welcome signboard retro style, Toilet sign with boy, girl figure. Glowing inscription on dark red brick background. Suitable for night outdoor banner, advertisement, shop, night club. 3D render.; Shutterstock ID 2265283835; purchase_order: -; job: -; client: -; other:

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Do you wake up needing to pee, or wake up then need to pee? part 2

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BG2B51 Back of man wearing a set of large false ears for a joke

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What part do my ears play when I think of a tune? part 2

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Piano Exit Overlay Banner Mobile Piano Exit Overlay Banner Desktop