In this blog post, we’ll examine the concept and mechanisms of the group selection hypothesis—proposed to explain altruistic behavior in humans—as well as the role of institutions and the effects and limitations of conformist cultural transmission.   You’ve probably heard the saying, “United we stand!” It means that even in situations that are dangerous when faced alone, the chances of...

In this blog post, we’ll explore why the base of a cumulus cloud—which is commonly seen on clear summer days—appears flat, by examining the processes of air ascent and cooling, the dew point, and condensation.   If asked to picture the sky in their mind, most people would likely envision a deep blue sky covered by white formations. These white formations are clouds. Clouds are collections of...

In this blog post, we’ll explore the meaning and applications of phase equilibrium diagrams—a key concept in materials engineering—by examining the changes in the state of water that we commonly encounter in everyday life.   While attending college, I often hear people ask, “What department are you in?” When I reply, “I’m in the Department of Materials Science and Engineering,” I observe a...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...