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When cycling on hilly roads, what is the best option to save energy: go as fast as possible downhill to gain momentum for the next climb, or stop pedalling to have a rest and regain some strength? And, is it feasible to start a fire with a fart and a static spark from human hair?

31 July 2024

ROTHBURY, NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE, ENGLAND, UK - JULY 06, 2019: Two cyclists peddling hard up a steep hill at the cyclone race event from Newcastle to Northumberland.; Shutterstock ID 1539510248; purchase_order: -; job: -; client: -; other: -

Shutterstock/Duncan Andison

Cycling on hilly roads, what is the best option to save energy: go as fast as possible downhill to gain momentum for the next climb, or stop pedalling to have a rest and regain some strength?

Jean-Luc Kerdelhué,

Nantes, France

2BJT6WJ Stone fire bonfire burning sticks firewood in autumn

Andrey Sarapulov/Alamy

Is it feasible to start a fire with a fart and a static spark from human hair?

Jed Stephens,

via email

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…

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