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This week’s new questions

Is it more efficient to leave the fridge briefly open when I am pouring milk for my tea or to close and reopen it, given that warm air is introduced whenever the door is opened? Michael Paine, Beacon Hill, Australia

10 April 2024

Man opening door of retro refrigerator freezer.; Shutterstock ID 2275541755; purchase_order: -; job: -; client: -; other: -

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Is it more efficient to leave the fridge briefly open when I am pouring milk for my tea or to close and reopen it, given that warm air is introduced whenever the door is opened?

Michael Paine,

Beacon Hill, Australia

2HMRRGF Madrid, Spain - March 6th, 2021: Isidore of Seville statue at National Library of Spain, Madrid. Medieval Spanish scholar

WHPics/Alamy

Once life is established, is the evolution of intelligence inevitable?

Matthew Wenban-Smith,

London, 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…

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