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Last word

New Å®ÉúСÊÓƵ'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

Archaeological excavations. Human remains (bones, skeleton and skull) in the ground, with many little found artefacts in the tomb. Real digger process. Outdoors, copy space, close up. ; Shutterstock ID 1256987506; purchase_order: -; job: -; client: -; other: -

Last Word

Ancient human remains in caves are buried in dirt. Didn’t they clean?

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CXE9HA ALBERTA, CANADA - Clouds at sunset near Banff.

Last Word

How would civilisation differ if skies were always obscured by clouds?

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2XH91PX Common redshank (Tringa totanus) in breeding plumage perched on one leg on wooden fence pole along meadow in summer

Last Word

This week’s new questions

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Issue no. 3547 published 14 June 2025

New Å®ÉúСÊÓƵ issue 3547 cover
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