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This week’s new questions

How can one vibrating eardrum convey the rich symphony that we hear? And is it possible to yawn without closing your eyes?

How can a vibrating eardrum convey the rich symphony that we hear? Why don’t the various frequencies interfere with each other?

Derek Johnson,

Moreton-in-Marsh, Gloucestershire, UK

Handsome man lying in bed and warm blanket and stretching and yawning. Sleepy guy has laptop on the top and holding cup with hot tea or coffee in right hand; Shutterstock ID 622519436; purchase_order: -; job: -; client: -; other: -

Is it possible to yawn without closing your eyes? If not, why?

Helen Kendall,

Leicester, UK

To answer this question – or ask a new one – email lastword@newscientist.com.

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