Alexandra Franklin-Cheung
Recent articles by Alexandra Franklin-Cheung
What causes lightning? The simple science, explained
It all starts with warm, damp air.
Is it true that the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans don’t mix?
The two great oceans meet at very specific point on our planet.
What are nurdles?
Nurdles can work their way into the digestive tracts of various marine animals.
Is sunscreen bad for coral reefs?
Lathering up with sunscreen before enjoying a cooling dip can lead to harmful chemicals getting washed out to sea.
Does human body temperature impact global warming?
Feeling hot, hot, hot...
Are electric cars definitely greener than petrol?
The UK is set to ban the sale of new petrol and diesel cars by 2030.
Sustainable air travel: Could long-haul flights ever go green?
As we start thinking about resuming flights abroad, we wonder whether guilt-free, sustainable air travel will be possible for our summer holidays.
Why hasn’t tidal power taken off yet?
Tidal power has good potential as a renewable energy source but there are currently a few barriers to its growth.
Mountains: a scientist’s guide to the tallest peaks on Earth and beyond
What’s the biggest mountain in the solar system? Is Mount Everest getting taller? And what animals live in high climates? All your questions, answered.
How do deserts form?
The step-by-step science behind how Earth’s most arid landscapes are made.
Can space exploration be environmentally friendly?
One SpaceX rocket launch emits 112 tonnes of refined kerosene.
How does solar energy actually work?
Bask in our simple explanation to how humans turn the Sun’s rays into power.
Could we farm thunderstorms for power?
Wind and solar sources have become clean energy champions. But can humans harness lightning in the same way?
Is it possible to recycle plastics an infinite number of times?
Asked by: Holly Goodrick, London
Will increased Sun activity make climate change worse?
Asked by: Tony Hersh, Newbury
Why is there a hurricane season?
The science behind why hurricanes only happen at certain times of year
Where does soil come from?
Asked by: Craig Edwards, Wolverhampton
What does biodegradable plastic degrade into?
Asked by: Rachel Campbell, via email
If global warming increases rainfall, could the extra clouds block sunlight and help cool the Earth?
Asked by: Tristin Quinn, Tullamore, Ireland
Are our pets bad for the environment?
Asked by: Rex Legge, via email
Is it true that you shouldn’t keep plants in the bedroom?
Asked by: Jessica Lees, Ipswich
Why are there two layers of clouds?
Asked by: Shiri Kleinberg, London
What would have happened if we’d carried on using CFCs?
Asked by: Jessica Howard, Inverness
Does the carbon dioxide released from fizzy drinks affect the atmosphere?
Curiosity bubbling over for this one. The CO2 released from your soda is a fraction of our own emissions.