Ah, the Great Pyramid of Giza. The oldest and last remaining Wonder of the Ancient Worlds. Just when we thought that we were perplexed enough about this structure, its engineering and construction, and its size and proportions, scientists recently married physics and pyramid research to discover a connection between the pyramid’s structure and electromagnetism. When Physics and Pyramids Collide A team of Russian and German scientists discovered, through theoretical research, that the Great Pyramid of Giza can potentially focus electromagnetic radiation into pockets of energy inside its chambers and under its base. Initially interested in exploring how the pyramid would respond to radio waves, the team used mathematical models to understand how electromagnetic radiation (including radio waves, microwaves, infrared light, visible light, ultraviolet light, x-rays, and gamma rays) would react with a nanoparticle shaped like a pyramid. They first calculated how long wavelengths needed to be in order to induce resonance in the pyramid. By resonating, the structure would scatter and absorb more energy from electromagnetic waves than in regular conditions. Then, they used computer modeling to determine how energy would be scattered or absorbed. The team had to make some assumptions about the physical properties of the pyramid when making their calculations since there is a lack of information on the internal structure. The Mysterious Pyramids of Egypt Speculation about the function of Egypt’s pyramids has been a topic of discussion since the early 20th century. Today, scientists use modern techniques to explore various theories. Last year, as a part of the “ScanPyramids” project, an international team of researchers discovered that the Great Pyramid has a huge void in the middle. Scientists used particle physics to scan into the pyramid and determine what’s inside without disturbing the exterior of the structure. This was the first chamber to be discovered since the 19th century. The Future of Pyramid Research With future research, the team wants to use their findings for practical applications. Specifically, they want to see if pyramid-shaped nanoparticles obtained from material with electromagnetic properties could be used to produce nanosensors and solar cells. For more up-to-the-minute magnetic stories and stories about how magnetism affects our planet, visit our blog and make sure to check out the newest products in our online catalog today!