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Last word

New Scientist's popular Last Word series gives readers the opportunity to answer each other's questions about everyday science phenomena, from the shape of scones to the evolutionary history of toenails. To answer a question or ask a new one, email lastword@newscientist.com

2CE6RC8 Drone view over Santorini, aerial view over the whitewashed village of Oia with luxury vacation resort with infinity pools in Santorini Greece

Last Word

What difference would it make to temperatures if all roofs were white?

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Book, reading and relax with teen on bed in home for weekend education, literature or study. Hobby, novel or storytelling with boy in bedroom of apartment for development, growth or learning; Shutterstock ID 2541134517; purchase_order: -; job: -; client: -; other: -

Last Word

How does the experience of reading a book differ from listening to it?

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M5BFWD A man playing a piano outdoors in a public square beside False Creek and the Cambie Street bridge in downtown Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.

Last Word

This week’s new questions

Regulars

Issue no. 3558 published 30 August 2025

New Scientist issue 3558 cover
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