Top chip designer leaves US, ‘ghost particle’ detector: 7 science highlights
From an underwater observatory in the South China Sea to hybrid rice, here are a few highlights from SCMP’s recent science reporting
1. China adds ‘ghost particle’ detector to South China Sea observation network
Prototype detectors have been sent deep into the South China Sea by Chinese scientists to test the possibility of building a massive underwater observatory that would be used to search for neutrinos – tiny, elusive subatomic particles from deep space.
2. China’s biggest 2024 advances hold new promise for quantum tech, healthcare
As China and the United States go head-to-head in the arenas of science and technology, some of China’s top scientists have rated the most significant advances of 2024 that have helped push the country to the forefront of several fields – from space and deep-sea exploration to chips and quantum technologies.
3. More rice, less gas: Chinese-Swedish team makes hybrid to cut methane emissions
Chinese and Swedish researchers have developed a high-yield rice variety that emits up to 70 per cent less methane than normal rice after uncovering how chemicals released by rice roots influence emissions.