Thursday, February 25, 2016

Google Science Fair

Did you know Google has a science fair? Yes! Another in a list of cool things Google is up to. Well, just a heads up... They are accepting submissions again (February 21, 2016 to May 18, 2016) on the Google science fair website. They even have a place to "Hangout with Science Superstars" where you can tune in to hear leading scientists talk about their work and take part in virtual field trips. Very cool. 

They have scientists on duty in a Google group help forum to answer questions about your science fair project. Always a plus! 

So, what are you waiting for? Submit your work. Join the science conversation. You just might win a $50,000 educational scholarship. Go science!

Monday, February 8, 2016

Brain Folding 101

 If you're like me, you don't really think about your brain. Well, maybe when you see brain coral or a crazy brain-like cactus, but those are special occasions.

Did you know that just like the rest of your body, the brain starts out all smooth and pretty? Then, as it grows, it folds and refolds to accommodate all the connections and memories and brain stuff that needs to go in there. 

Also, scientists have noticed that the higher the intelligence an organism has, the more its brain is folded. [And before you ask, we don't have the most folded brain. Dolphins have more folds than humans. Of course they do! They get to swim and play all day long. No dolphin cubicles on the horizon.]

Anyway... Check out this super great explanation of brain folding by PhD Comics. My brain just folded a little more taking it all in. Go science!