phosphorus

NASA has discovered a bacteria that can use arsenic -- which is toxic to most forms of life -- as a building block of its DNA. Scientists say the discovery may broaden our definition of what constitutes life and may revolutionize how we search for life beyond Earth.

Without phosphorus, plants and animals couldn't function, so I find it troubling to read that production of the element is projected to peak in 2035, and that we are already experiencing market fluctuations, including a price spike in 2008 to almost $450 a ton. It's also one of the nutrients blamed...

The American obsession with super-soft toilet paper may be the pinnacle of consumer silliness. Many people throughout the world use leaves or scrap paper for hygiene; in Europe, the toilet tissue of choice is a scratchy recycled variety. But in America, consumers strenuously defend their right to...