Tag

Nucleation

All articles tagged with #nucleation

science1 month ago•11 min saved

Cracking the Ice Code: Ultrafast X‑ray Illuminates Early Freezing

Using the European XFEL to watch the first microseconds of freezing, researchers show that disorder and impurities strongly influence nucleation, challenging classical nucleation theory; experiments on simple Lennard‑Jones liquids (krypton and argon) reveal rapid onset of crystalline order within micrometres and microseconds, with theory matching experiments only after refining assumptions. The work could improve climate models, cloud formation understanding, and insights into planetary interiors.

via Nature|

#atmospheric-science #crystallization #ice

science-and-technology2 years ago•5 min saved

"Uncovering Neural Network-like Abilities in Physical Processes through Self-Assembling DNA Recognition"

A new study suggests that physical processes, specifically nucleation, can exhibit complex pattern recognition abilities similar to neural networks. The research, published in Nature, challenges the traditional view of cells' molecular circuits and proposes that the molecules responsible for building structures within cells can also perform the functions of sensing, decision-making, and response. The study demonstrates how the physics of nucleation can recognize subtle chemical combinations and build different molecular structures in response, indicating hidden computational abilities in physical processes. The findings may lead to new perspectives on computation and have implications for understanding multi-component systems in various fields.

via Phys.org|

#molecular-biology #neural-networks #nucleation

science2 years ago•4 min saved

The Science Behind Crystal Formation

Crystals form when molecules with similar properties come together and stick, forming chemical bonds. They require special conditions and a nucleation site to grow on. Crystals can form from dissolved molecules in water or from cooling magma. Different types of crystals can provide valuable information to scientists, such as the age of rocks and environmental conditions. Some crystals grow through metamorphism, and larger crystals can form when there is more space for growth. Certain crystals are also used as gemstones for jewelry.

via The Conversation|

#crystals #geochronology #minerals