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Last word

New Scientist'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

LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND - APRIL 09: win Randox Grand National Handicap Steeple Chase at Aintree Racecourse on April 09, 2022 in Liverpool, England. (Photo by Alan Crowhurst/Getty Images)

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Are racehorses aware that they are expected to come first?

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Panoramic view of wind farm or wind park, with high wind turbines for generation electricity with copy space. Green energy concept.; Shutterstock ID 1933377149; purchase_order: -; job: -; client: -; other: -

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Is there a tipping point when harvesting renewable energy is harmful?

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This week’s new questions

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Farmer harvesting organic rhubarb from her kitchen garden. Rhubarb can be harvested many times through the year. Photographed at an ???off grid??? home on the island of Moen in Denmark. Colour, horizontal format with some copy space.

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How was rhubarb found to be edible when it tastes bad raw? (Part 2)

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Issue no. 3437 published 6 May 2023

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