Explainers
Series
Science
Brain worms, dark matter and stranger things. We explain
We put the natural world under a microscope, from rogue waves and zombie fungus to colliding atoms and meteors.
Latest
Explainer
Religion
A quarter of the world’s people observe Ramadan. What’s it for and what are the rules?
Some 800,000 Australians and many more overseas observe Ramadan. What is the purpose of this holy month?
- by Maher Mughrabi
Explainer
China relations
‘They want this, all of it’: The global arms race you can’t see – and China wants the edge
Microchips are key to powering the world. What will it take to win in this vital (and secretive) multi-billion-dollar world?
- by Eryk Bagshaw, Jackson Graham and Daniel Ceng
Explainer
US Votes 2024
Trump is on a tear. Super Tuesday has all but sealed it for him
The last time a former US president made a comeback was 1892. That’s just one reason these primaries are proving to be a wild ride for the Republicans.
- by Angus Holland
Explainer
Missing person
‘Obviously lost. SORRY’: Madeleine’s only text as a bush ordeal unfolded
It took just a few wrong steps for Madeleine, 73, to lose sight of a remote walking track. Three days later, as searchers combed heavy forest, time was running out.
- by Jackson Graham
Explainer
Middle East tensions
‘Arrogant powers’: How Iran takes aim at its sworn enemies
The regime usually hits out via proxies in the Middle East but now it has launched a direct attack. How did Iran get here – and can the era of the ayatollahs last?
- by Angus Holland
Explainer
World politics
Fighting talk, more missiles: Is Kim preparing for war?
The North Korean leader has flipped on his dynasty’s policy of reunifying with the South, now calling it a “primary foe”. Does this spell trouble or is it business as usual in his hermit kingdom?
- by Angus Holland and Jackson Graham
Explainer
Royal family
King Charles has paused public duties. Who steps in when a monarch is unwell?
What are the rules and protocols when a British King or Queen can’t perform their duties?
- by Angus Holland and Jackson Graham
Explainer
Lunar New Year
Enter the dragon: The stars and monsters of Lunar New Year
Fire crackers and the colour red usher in the good – and scare off a marauding creature that descends on the second full moon. How did the ancient customs begin?
- by Jackson Graham
Explainer
Mental health
Sick of work already? Micro-stresses (or your childhood) could be invisible causes
As holidays fade and the working year springs into focus, some of us might feel dread. How can work stress creep up? And what are the signs of burnout?
- by Angus Holland
Explainer
Australian Open
‘I’m sitting, but my heart rate is climbing’: How heat stress creeps up on you
Reporter Angus Dalton experienced just what extreme heat can do to your body in a climate chamber for this Explainer with Liam Mannix.
- by Liam Mannix and Angus Dalton