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This week’s new questions

What is the evolutionary benefit of biting our fingernails when we are anxious? And the reign of the dinosaurs lasted around 180 million years. Where, exactly, is 180 million years worth of dinosaur poo?

7 August 2024

B09GB1 Nail biting football fan Wolverhampton England Uk

David Bagnall/Alamy

What is the evolutionary benefit of biting our fingernails when we are anxious?

Ben Walsh,

Richmond, Surrey, UK

2F959A7 Cabazon, CA, USA: June 18th, 2010: A 65-foot-tall Tyrannosaurus rex known as Mr. Rex is part of a roadside attraction that stands near the freeway in

Gerry Matthews/Alamy

The reign of the dinosaurs lasted around 180 million years. Where, exactly, is 180 million years worth of dinosaur poo?

Bob Griffiths,

Falkirk, 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.

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