Why China's population is shrinking and aging

China’s population is shrinking and getting older

26% over 65 by 2050

China’s population has begun to fall because more people are dying than being born, while women now have around one child on average. By 2050, people over 65 are expected to make up 26% of the population.

Fusing atoms heavier than iron costs a star energy

Stars release energy by joining light atomic nuclei into heavier ones. But once a massive star reaches iron, joining nuclei into still heavier elements requires energy instead of releasing it. The star can no longer support itself through this kind of fusion.

Aztec homes were relit from one new fire

Every 52 years, the Aztecs held a New Fire Ceremony when their 260-day and 365-day calendars realigned. They believed the fifth sun might end that night, so they put out fires across the realm, drilled a new fire over a sacrificial victim, and carried it to communities to relight homes.

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Why China's population is shrinking and aging

China’s population is shrinking and getting older

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