Researchers at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) have invented a plant that works as a lamp and can substitute electric light. Engineers inserted enzymes from fireflies and nanoparticles into watercress leaves that “lit up”, shining light on a book for four hours. The idea is that plants like watercress, kale, and spinach can shine brighter for longer, fueled by their own metabolism. In the future, the group hopes that trees rather than lamp posts will light streets at night.

QUESTIONS – level 2

1- What is the secret that makes plants shine?
a. Using only watercress leaves
b. Inserting enzymes from fireflies and nanoparticles
c. Changing plant metabolism
d. All of the above

2- What is expected of shiny plants in the future?

Paint Kills Unwanted Insects 

A paint is getting attention because it kills insects such as the Aedes aegypti mosquito. Aedes transmits yellow fever, dengue, zika, and chikuvgunya.  When a mosquito lands on a painted wall or ceiling, it comes into contact with the insecticide that kills it. Aside from killing mosquitoes, the product also helps eliminate flies, cockroaches, and  dust mites. The paint is already sold in Europe. The Brazilian Health Regulatory Agency (ANVISA) considers the paint safe and effective.

QUESTIONS – level 1

1) How does the paint work?
a. Insects die when they smell the paint.
b. Insects need to touch the wall to be affected.
c. The colour of the paint stops animals from seeing, they get dizzy and die.
d. Insects smell the insecticide in the paint and die.

2- Can the paint harm humans?