Breaking the laws of physics is a big no-no – unless you happen to be a sperm. Earlier this year, a team of researchers at Kyoto University in Japan found that microorganisms such as sperm and some algae propel themselves in a way that apparently breaks Isaac Newton’s third law of motion.
These micro-sized swimmers are equipped with long, slender filaments called flagella that jut out of their bodies like hair. These possess unique movements that enable them to drive forward in a manner inconsistent with Newton’s laws.
Take that, Newton
Christoph Burgstedt/Alamy
New Scientist’s most popular story of the year was about the discovery that sperm break Isaac Newton’s third law of motion
By Karmela Padavic-Callaghan
More from New Scientist
Explore the latest news, articles and features
