In this blog post, we’ll explore the characteristics of WIG craft—which overcome water resistance and move close to the water’s surface as if flying—and the principle of ground effect. Most people have probably heard of magnetic levitation trains. They’re famous for traveling not by rolling on wheels along the tracks, but by using magnetic forces to hover just above the tracks. But have...
What is geophysical exploration, and how can it reveal hidden subsurface structures?
In this blog post, we’ll explore the principles of geophysical exploration—which reveals hidden subsurface structures and resources—the characteristics of seismic surveying, and how seismic surveying is utilized in oil and gas exploration. Have you ever played the game StarCraft? For those who haven’t, it’s a strategy simulation game where you choose one of three races—Terran, Zerg, or...
How does the “flying fish,” a fish that flies, use the principles of fluid dynamics to take to the skies?
In this blog post, we’ll explore how the flying fish—a species of fish—uses fluid dynamics principles such as lift, drag, fin structure, and ground effect to glide long distances for extended periods. The flying fish, also known as “Flying Fish,” can glide distances of up to 400 meters with a single leap and is known to remain airborne for up to about 40 seconds while traveling at speeds...
Could eco-friendly hydrogen energy production through water electrolysis become the energy source of the future?
In this blog post, we’ll explore the significance of hydrogen energy as a solution to the limitations of fossil fuels, the principle behind producing hydrogen by using solar power to split water, and the challenges that must be overcome for this technology to evolve into a sustainable energy source. Recently, the world has been seeking various solutions to energy problems. Fossil fuels...
Biofuels Have Many Problems: What Direction Should the Biofuel Industry Take?
In this blog post, we will examine the environmental and economic challenges of biofuels—which have long been touted as an eco-friendly energy source—and consider the direction the sustainable biofuel industry should take to move beyond its reliance on conventional first-generation biofuels. As concerns about environmental pollution—which has been accelerating since the Industrial...
How Is the Legalization of Tattooing Progressing, and What Issues Need to Be Addressed?
In this blog post, I examined social perceptions of tattoos and safety concerns surrounding tattooing, and reflected on the challenges that must be addressed and the expected benefits during the process of legalizing tattooing. What comes to mind when you see someone with a tattoo while walking down the street? Just 20 years ago, most people would have responded with comments like “They...
To what extent has the dream of a USB drive with infinite storage capacity become a reality?
In this blog post, we’ll examine the basic structure of flash memory and the differences between SLC and MLC technologies, and explore how multi-level cell technology has evolved to increase storage density. We live in the information age. Vast amounts of information are digitized and exchanged at a rapid pace. We no longer have to sit in front of a bulky computer to access information...
Is the marketing of “additive-free” foods truly beneficial to consumers?
In this blog post, we’ll examine the impact of “additive-free” food marketing on consumers and the food industry—focusing on the example of synthetic sodium nitrite—not only from scientific and biological perspectives but also from ethical and social ones. With the launch of “THE Healthy Ham” in 2010, an “additive-free” craze began sweeping through South Korea’s processed food industry...
Hallux Valgus: Are Your Feet Really Safe?
In this blog post, we’ll examine the causes and symptoms of hallux valgus, the risks associated with certain lifestyle habits, and methods for prevention and treatment—and explore what you should focus on to protect your foot health in your daily life. With the widespread use of high heels and pointed-toe shoes, feet—regardless of gender—are under a great deal of pressure. In addition, as...
How is wireless charging technology evolving to transform our daily lives?
In this blog post, we’ll explore the principles behind wireless charging—which emerged as a solution to the inconvenience of cables—as well as the characteristics of magnetic resonance and magnetic induction methods. We’ll also examine the potential of wireless charging technology as it expands beyond smartphones to encompass a wide range of electronic devices and everyday environments. ...