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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

Scones

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How does a scone develop a “waist” as it rises in the oven?

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Sore Tooth Decay. Dental Care And Pain; Shutterstock ID 1895847487; purchase_order: -; job: -; client: -; other: -

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What is the point in having nerve endings in our teeth?

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Loosen bolt in daylight close up.; Shutterstock ID 1195047430; purchase_order: -; job: -; client: -; other: -

Last Word

Why do loose screws only get looser, not the other way round? (part 2)

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MXMH8X colorful water drop splash

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This week’s new questions

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Issue no. 3427 published 25 February 2023

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