Issue #4

Why Birds Can Sit on High-Voltage Power Lines Without Getting Fried

Birds perch on high-voltage power lines without harm because electricity flows through the path of least resistance, which is the wire, not the bird. Since both legs are on the same conductor, there is no voltage difference, so current doesn't pass through their bodies. However, if they touch another wire or the pole simultaneously, they would get electrocuted. This phenomenon highlights basic principles of electrical circuits and voltage.

The Statue of Liberty’s Forgotten Symbol of Freedom

The Statue of Liberty is renowned for her torch and tablet, but few notice the broken chains and shackles at her feet. These chains symbolise the end of oppression and the triumph of liberty, commemorating the abolition of slavery. Sculptor Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi included them to reinforce the statue’s deeper message of freedom and human rights. Despite their powerful symbolism, this feature often goes unnoticed due to their placement beneath the statue’s flowing robes.

The Science Behind Birds' V-Formation Flight

Birds often fly in a V-formation to conserve energy during long migrations. This formation allows trailing birds to benefit from the upwash created by the wingtips of the bird ahead, reducing air resistance and making flight less strenuous. Studies have shown that birds flying in V-formation can increase their flight range by up to 71% compared to flying solo. Additionally, this arrangement facilitates better visual communication among flock members, enhancing coordination and safety during flight.