Âé¶¹´«Ã½

This week’s new questions

How many cyclists is optimal for an efficient bike ride? And how are sea vents colonised? Send your answers and we’ll publish the best in the Last Word

1 July 2020

Âé¶¹´«Ã½. Science news and long reads from expert journalists, covering developments in science, technology, health and the environment on the website and the magazine.

Alamy Stock Photo

A triplet bike is lighter and has less resistance per person, so is more efficient than a tandem, which is more efficient than a regular bike. Does this trend hold however long the bike?

Simon Aldridge, London, UK

Âé¶¹´«Ã½. Science news and long reads from expert journalists, covering developments in science, technology, health and the environment on the website and the magazine.

Georgette Douwma/Science Photo Library

Hydrothermal vents teem with life on a lifeless seabed. How are they colonised?

Howard Watkins, Reading, UK

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.

Âé¶¹´«Ã½ retains total editorial control over the published content and reserves all rights to reuse question and answer material that has been submitted by readers in any medium or in any format.

You can also submit answers by post to: The Last Word, Âé¶¹´«Ã½, 25 Bedford Street, London WC2E 9ES.

Terms and conditions apply.

Topics:

Sign up to our weekly newsletter

Receive a weekly dose of discovery in your inbox. We'll also keep you up to date with Âé¶¹´«Ã½ events and special offers.

Sign up
Piano Exit Overlay Banner Mobile Piano Exit Overlay Banner Desktop