2 min listen
Why Penguin Feathers Don't Freeze
FromBirdNote Daily
ratings:
Length:
2 minutes
Released:
Dec 2, 2023
Format:
Podcast episode
Description
Gentoo Penguins live in the frigid waters of the Atlantic. Only recently have scientists begun to unravel why penguin feathers don’t freeze. An electron microscope revealed tiny pores on the feathers that trap air, making the surface water repellent. This feature, plus a special coating oil from the preen gland, prevents water build-up and delays freezing. Engineers could attempt to apply these principles to prevent icing on plane wings.More info and transcript at BirdNote.org. Want more BirdNote? Subscribe to our weekly newsletter. Sign up for BirdNote+ to get ad-free listening and other perks. BirdNote is a nonprofit. Your tax-deductible gift makes these shows possible.
Released:
Dec 2, 2023
Format:
Podcast episode
Titles in the series (100)
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