Scientific American, November 2004

This edition of Scientific American for November 2004 features a cover story about Black Hole Computers, in which black holes are recast as the ultimate data-processors. The second article examines historical events to show that planetary climate destabilization can lead to disastrous changes in seasonal temperatures. A third article delves into the effects of music on humans, as scientists piece together what happens in the brains of listeners and musicians. The final article examines changes in the physics field that are forcing the microchip industry to redesign its most lucrative products.