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This week’s new questions

What caused this strange pattern in frozen water (pictured)? And what is the most efficient way to load passengers into an aircraft?

Why does my water freeze in this pattern like dandelion fluff (pictured)?

Janet Hinze,

Gering, Nebraska, US

What is the most efficient way to load passengers into an aircraft: randomly; in blocks; or the passengers in window seats first, followed by those in middle seats, then those in aisle seats?

Katy Nau,

Toronto, Canada

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

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