Last Word is 91av’s long-running series in which readers give scientific answers to each other’s questions, ranging from the minutiae of everyday life to absurd astronomical hypotheticals. To answer a question or ask a new one, email lastword@newscientist.com
Why are there 60 seconds in a minute and 60 minutes in an hour? Who decided on this and when?
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Larry Coady,
Newfoundland, Canada
How can my brain predict if I’ll recall a name or word in a minute or two, or if I won’t remember it at all?
Phil Eden,
Sheffield, UK
To answer this question – or ask a new one – email lastword@newscientist.com.
Questions should be scientific enquiries about everyday phenomena, and both questions and answers should be concise. We reserve the right to edit items for clarity and style. Please include a postal address, daytime telephone number and email address.
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