One use for matrix math is in programming 3D engines for video games. A single point on the screen can be defined as a vector. The TV or computer screen is two-dimensional only, so to create the look of depth, objects must change size as they come closer to the viewer or go farther back into the scene. An image is made up of hundreds or thousands of vectors. By multiplying this set or matrix, you can change its size. You can also multiply the vector array by another array, which allows you to rotate the image. In rotation, parts of the image become ...

These lamps, designed by Yukio Takana from Japan, use mushroom-shaped LEDs, bits of driftwood, and salvage lumber to create something that has a kitsch or whimsical quality.

Hidden within the vibrant red hues of a ripe tomato lies a secret that has excited taste buds and intrigued culinary experts for centuries. We're talking about monosodium glutamate, better known as MSG. While often associated with Chinese cuisine, MSG's natural presence in tomatoes adds a layer of complexity to the flavor profile of this beloved fruit (see vegetable).

MSG is a naturally occurring compound found in various foods. This flavor-enhancing substance gained notoriety in the mid-20th century when it was widely used as a food additive to intensify umami flavor – the so-called "fifth taste" that imparts a rich and savory sensation to dishes.

MSG was originally isolated from kombu seaweed by Japanese chemist Kikunae Ikeda in 1908. Its ...

A reminder of how quickly we integrate technology into our lives.


St. Peter's Square in 2005 and yesterday.

This guy brings new meaning to the phrase “A rolling stone gathers no moss.”


The Venezuela Pebble Toad is a strange creature. It is typically found in mountainous regions, with many slopes and inclines. The toad is only about the size of a fingertip. As such, it is vulnerable to attacks from even a spider, like a tarantula.

The Pebble Toad has an ingenious defence mechanism. When faced with a danger, it tucks its limbs and head under its body and tenses its muscles. Forming a ball shape, it begins to roll down whatever slope it happens to be on. This allows it to evade whatever predator may be pursuing it. Since they are so tiny and their muscles are so rigid, they take no damage from the bouncing and rolling.

The Pebble Toad was featured in t ...

Take a good look at this premature child. It's hard to deny that it isn't a fully formed human being, though in some parts of the world, abortions at the second and third trimester are perfectly legal

Thoughts are welcome.

Described as the first “truly feasible” contraption to reduce ocean plastic, this little wheel has been clearing rubbish out of Baltimore's harbour since May.