Science may not be scary, but it can certainly be spooky! This Halloween, the Department of Energy’s (DOE) Office of Science is spotlighting some fascinating research that delves into the unknown.
Dark Matter: The Universe's ghostly presence
Did you know that ordinary matter makes up only 5% of the universe? The rest is dark matter, a mysterious substance that interacts with regular matter only through gravity. Scientists can only detect dark matter by observing its effects. Despite advanced technology, no one has yet spotted a dark matter particle. Researchers are continually developing more sensitive detectors in hopes of unveiling this elusive mystery. To learn more, check out the Direct Current podcast episode on dark matter and join a live Q&A with physicists from Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory on YouTube on October 30.
Neutrinos: The Ghost Particles
Neutrinos, often called “ghost particles,” are another intriguing aspect of particle physics. These tiny particles rarely interact with anything, with millions passing through your body every second without you noticing. While we can detect neutrinos, many questions remain about them. For instance, the Standard Model of Particle Physics suggests that neutrinos should be massless, yet they do have mass. Additionally, neutrinos can change type as they travel, shifting between three different forms. Understanding these shifts could answer some of physics' biggest questions. For more details, visit our DOE Explains... Neutrinos page.
Quantum Entanglement: Spooky action at a distance
Albert Einstein famously described quantum entanglement as “spooky action at a distance.” This phenomenon occurs at the atomic level, where particles become linked in such a way that the state of one instantly affects the other, regardless of the distance between them. Scientists are exploring quantum entanglement to develop new technologies, including advanced computers and sensors, which could solve complex problems faster than traditional methods. Discover more on our DOE Explains... Quantum Mechanics page.
Muons: Peering inside Mummies
Muons, heavier cousins of electrons, are created when cosmic rays collide with particles in Earth’s atmosphere. Like neutrinos, they can pass through most materials without changing. This makes them useful for archaeological studies. Scientists have employed muons to examine the interiors of ancient pyramids in Egypt and Mexico, revealing hidden structures without disturbing the sites.
Microbial Dark Matter: The hidden life beneath our feet
Beneath the surface, a vast array of microorganisms—bacteria, fungi, and viruses—remain largely unstudied. This "microbial dark matter" plays a crucial role in ecosystems and may offer insights for technologies like bioenergy. The DOE’s Joint Genome Institute has been at the forefront of this research, recently supported by Nobel Prize winner David Baker and his team.
Protecting wildlife at national laboratories
The DOE’s national laboratories are not just research hubs; they also provide vital habitats for wildlife. For instance, Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) sits on 33,000 acres that host over 1,500 plant and animal species. The lab prioritises ecological conservation, coordinating construction to protect migratory patterns of local bats, and even creating 3D-printed habitats for endangered species.
This Halloween, let’s celebrate the wonders of science and the mysteries waiting to be uncovered!
