How do archaeologists know where to dig?

Archaeologists used to dig primarily at sites that were easy to find thanks to obvious visual clues. But technology – and listening to local people – plays a much bigger role now.

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Your dog's nose knows no bounds – and neither does its love for you

Dogs process the sensory world very differently than humans, but love in a way that is entirely familiar.

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Newfound taste cells ‘multitask’ to sense it all

Researchers have found taste cells in mice that respond to as many as four different tastes. Humans are likely to have the same cells, the researchers say.

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food brains senses taste science-and-technology

‘Cyborg’ locusts could sniff out bombs

"People use pigs for finding truffles. It's a similar approach—using a biological organism—this is just a bit more sophisticated."

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insects smell senses locusts featured science-and-technology explosives

Ocean warming threatens coral reefs and soon could make it harder to restore them

Hundreds of organizations are working around the world to restore damaged coral reefs. New research shows that rapid ocean warming threatens these efforts.

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Models that mimic bug brains shed light on smell

Researchers have created a model of the brain that may clarify how the sense of smell actually works. It also mirrors insect brains.

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insects brains senses science-and-technology smells

Synthetic odors created by activating brain cells help neuroscientists understand how smell works

Brains recognize a smell based on which cells fire, in what order – the same way you recognize a song based on its pattern of notes. How much can you change the 'tune' and still know the smell?

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Do dogs really see in just black and white?

Your faithful friend's view of the world is different than yours, but maybe not in the way you imagine.

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What makes something smell good or bad?

Mmmmmmm. That smells delicious. Wait, how do you know that?

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