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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

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If all Earth’s water were put in a ball, how large would it be? Part 2

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2HR09CM Killer whale, Orcinus orca, spy hop, Vestfjord, Ofotfjord, and Tysfjord, Lofoten Islands, Norway, Atlantic Ocean

Last Word

This week’s new questions

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Why are MRI machines so noisy and what stops us making them quieter?

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Will the ocean ever be too salty for life to thrive? Part 2

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Will the ocean ever be too salty for life to thrive? Part 2

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Issue no. 3581 published 7 February 2026

New Scientist issue 3581 cover
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