The brain cells that control learning

Why do some experiences become memories while others fade? Two types of neurons in the brain decide what we learn and remember.

Neuroscientist Marlene Bartos studies two key neuron types that control learning. Principal cells store information, while inhibitory neurons regulate and fine-tune their activity. Their interaction determines which signals become stable memories.

 

IQ 130 = Genius? The truth about IQ tests

An IQ score can shape how people are seen in school, work, and research. But what does that number actually reveal about intelligence? IQ tests were originally developed by Alfred Binet to measure how well people recognize patterns, solve problems, and think logically.

Typical test tasks include number series, visual puzzles, and pattern recognition challenges. These are meant to capture analytical and abstract thinking — but they don't measure knowledge, creativity, or emotional intelligence.

Researchers also debate whether IQ tests reflect cultural assumptions, since many were developed using Western norms. Most scientists agree today: an IQ score can reveal certain cognitive abilities, but intelligence itself is far more complex than a single number.

 

The Lynx Returns: Can Europe save the species?

Europe's lynx was once close to extinction. Now conservationists are bringing the elusive predator back — but its survival depends on one key factor: genetic diversity.

At Zurich Wilderness Park, young lynx are prepared for life in the wild. Before release, they are examined and genetically tested to ensure healthy populations.

One young female is later transferred to Germany, where she learns to avoid humans and adapt to natural conditions. Eventually Freya  — as she's now been named — is released in Saxony near the Czech border.

 

White Hydrogen: The hidden energy beneath the Alps?

Could a naturally occurring gas help power the energy transition? In the Italian Alps, geologist Othmar Müntener is searching for what's called white hydrogen — hydrogen that forms naturally underground and may be continuously regenerated by geological processes.

Early drilling has revealed hydrogen bubbles produced when water reacts with the mineral olivine deep in the Earth's crust. This reaction could create a potentially abundant and climate-friendly energy resource.

Magnetic surveys and laboratory tests support the findings. The next step is deeper drilling to determine whether large, usable deposits exist. If confirmed, natural hydrogen could open a new chapter in clean energy exploration.

 

Avalanche Risk: Can new tools predict dangerous slopes?

Avalanches often strike without warning. Can apps and snowpack tests reveal which slopes are dangerous? An expert shows how ski tourers assess avalanche risk.

 

Broadcasting Hours: 

DW English

SAT 14.03.2026 – 01:30 UTC
SAT 14.03.2026 – 07:30 UTC
SAT 14.03.2026 – 23:30 UTC
SUN 15.03.2026 – 21:30 UTC
MON 16.03.2026 – 05:30 UTC
TUE 17.03.2026 – 11:02 UTC
TUE 17.03.2026 – 15:30 UTC
TUE 17.03.2026 – 19:30 UTC

Lagos UTC +1 | Cape Town UTC +2 | Nairobi UTC +3
Delhi UTC +5,5 | Bangkok UTC +7 | Hong Kong UTC +8
London UTC +/-0 | Berlin UTC +1 | Moscow UTC +3
San Francisco UTC -8 | Edmonton UTC -7 | New York UTC -5