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This week’s new questions

If plastic is inert, why does it have a taste and smell? What is the evolutionary origin of our love of gambling? And, when walking, if I take five paces to cover a distance and my companion takes six, who is getting more exercise?

When I go walking with my wife, six of her paces are equivalent to five of mine. Does this mean she gets more exercise than me?

Derek Shotton, Havant, Hampshire, UK

If plastic is inert, why does it have a taste and smell? Plastic bin bags have a strong smell when first opened and water left in plastic bottles can acquire a distinct taste.

Louis Chambers, London, UK

Why do some people like gambling so much? What is the evolutionary root of this behaviour?

Sergey Kasatkin, San Francisco, California, US

To answer this question – or ask a new one – email lastword@newscientist.com.

Questions should be scientific enquiries about everyday phenomena, and both questions and answers should be concise. We reserve the right to edit items for clarity and style. Please include a postal address, daytime telephone number and email address.

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Topics: Last Word

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