Learn something new.
And have fun doing it.
How Hot is Lava?
How hot is lava? Does it compare to an electric or gas stove? Could you cook on it, or will it immediately incinerate food? Is it hotter than a rocket engine?
Learn something new.
And have fun doing it.
Science & Technology
Mythbusting Silencers
How loud is a "suppressed" gunshot? Does a silencer really muffle gunfire to whisper-like levels? It's time for mythbusting silencers.
Radioactive Bananas: It’s What’s For Breakfast
Yup, radioactive bananas are a thing. How many do you need to eat before you glow and die? Hint: way more than can fit in the Capitol Rotunda (277 million).
A Time for Longitude: Navigation Solved
In the day of intrepid ocean explorers, no one knew exactly where they were. The challenge of knowing current longitude was a big deal, solved by a clockmaker.
Does the Moon Have an Atmosphere?
Is it just empty space, or does the moon have an atmosphere? If so, what's in it?
What Does Space Smell Like?
We think of space as vast emptiness, but even though you can't crack open a window to smell, astronauts have reported a unique odor. What does space smell like?
How Many Atoms Fit on the Head of a Pin?
Imagine neatly arranging a bunch of them to see how many atoms fit on the head of a pin. Here's that math your school teacher said you'd use one day.
Can Snakes Smell?
Can snakes smell? Using basic nostrils like ours, they can, at least in a rudimentary way. But the manner in which snakes smell to hunt may surprise you.
Cutting the Cable: A Practical Look at Streaming TV Quality vs. Cost
Does anyone like cable TV and its high cost? Streaming TV is a less expensive option, but does it work as well? We take the plunge and report the real deal...
The North Star, Spinning Tops and Our Mind-Bending Universe
With an unobstructed view, you’d see about 200 billion trillion stars. We're pretty sure that includes the North Star, which offers a few facts of its own.
Moths to Malfunctions: Origin of Computer Bugs
In computer lingo, a “bug” is a mistake in the code causing unexpected behavior. Here's the real story on computer bugs. You might be surprised at the origin.
How Microwave Ovens Work: Do They Really Cook from the Inside?
Microwave cooking is full of myths and half-truths. Maybe because it reflect some idea of food sorcery. So, how do microwave ovens work?
Bring Your Umbrellas; It’s Raining Inside
NASA's Vehicle Assembly Building is one of the largest interior spaces in the world. Read these fun facts about the building that holds giant rockets indoors.
The Invention of Stereo: Two Ears, Two Speakers
We take high-fidelity music for granted, but the invention of stereo was a big deal. Here's the story of the amazing music reproduction we take for granted.
Fixing a Seriously Expensive Mirror: The Hubble Space Telescope
What does it take to fix one really, really expensive mirror? And does its breakage cause bad luck? The Hubble Space Telescope repair story.
Why Do Weeks Have Seven Days?
Why do weeks have seven days? Is there some celestial explanation like with days, years and (sorta) months? Or is it human randomness?
Do Hangovers Get Worse As You Get Older?
Do hangovers get worse as you get older? Bad news buddy: yes! Here's why you'll feel even lousier after just a short night out.
A Brief History of Gunpowder: The Elixir of Life?
This history of gunpowder goes way, way back, to Chinese alchemists trying to invent the elixir of life, or perhaps a way to turn everyday junk into gold.
Why Are There Holes in Electrical Plugs?
Ever wonder why there are holes in electrical plugs prongs? Creatively presented, this bit of everyday practical knowledge just might win you a bar bet.
Who Painted That Yellow First Down Line on the Football Field?
Ever wondered how that yellow first down line is put on the football field? Hint: It's not done by disappearing paint or giant lasers. Here's the secret.
