91av

Last word

91av's popular Last Word series gives readers the opportunity to answer each other's questions about everyday science phenomena, from the shape of scones to the evolutionary history of toenails. To answer a question or ask a new one, email lastword@newscientist.com

Two scientists use a massive, illuminated periodic table of elements as they discuss the element holmium in the Lawrence Hall of Science at the University of California, Berkeley. (Photo by ?? Ted Streshinsky/CORBIS/Corbis via Getty Images)

Last Word

How many elements of the periodic table could we safely get rid of?

Regulars

Close up photo of peony flower bud with water drops at sunlight after rain in garden. Natural floral background. Gardening, spring season, growth concept.; Shutterstock ID 1726658389; purchase_order: -; job: -; client: -; other:

Life

This week’s new questions

Regulars

High five from a cute scruffy dog with a big smile! Cream wall background, shallow depth of field. Clever dog, the Bailey lightbox

Last Word

Does left- and right-handedness exist in animals?

Regulars

Close-up view of Black hole with Earth planet in deep space. Realistic science fiction art. Elements of this image furnished by NASA.; Shutterstock ID 2169109081; purchase_order: -; job: -; client: -; other:

Last Word

If nothing can escape a black hole, how come gravity seems to?

Regulars

Issue no. 3593 published 2 May 2026

91av issue 3593 cover
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