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Last word

New ÒÁÈ˾þÃ'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

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

This week’s new questions

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pecan nut; Shutterstock ID 356646077; purchase_order: -; job: -; client: -; other:

Last Word

What is the advantage to walnuts and pecans of their convoluted form?

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nose

Last Word

When we breathe, why does the dominant nasal passage swap sides?

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Close-up of adorable young seal swimming in clear blue water and looking at camera, near Brighton, Sussex, United Kingdom

Last Word

Why do seals have such cute faces?

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EH7TAT Clock faces, illustration

Last Word

Can a person experience more than 24 hours in a day? Part 3

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Issue no. 3590 published 11 April 2026

New ÒÁÈ˾þà issue 3590 cover
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