BIG QUESTIONS

How Do Water Towers Work?

Let’s go inside the mysterious infrastructure that stores our water.

This person is definitely not in New Jersey.

Why Can’t You Pump Your Own Gas in New Jersey?

It’s for your own good—or at least that’s the theory.

Ever wonder what you're supposed to be minding when your mind your p's and q's?

What Exactly Are Your P’s and Q’s?

Does it have to do with pea coats? Or maybe Latin scribes?

Why Don't Mattresses Come With Handles Anymore?

Want to find out who your real friends are? Ask them to help you move a mattress.

New England clam chowder is the seafood soup most diners are familiar with.

What’s the Difference Between Manhattan and New England Clam Chowder?

Manhattan and New England clam chowder are two of the most divisive dishes in American cuisine.

Does Ripping Off a Bandage Quickly Really Hurt Less?

“Ripping off the Band-Aid” is a well-worn idiom. When you want to break bad news, it’s better to just do it quickly; the same goes for anything prompting any ki

What's the Difference Between Ketchup and Catsup?

Tomato, tomahto.

Exhibit vs. Exhibition: What’s the Difference?

You just went to an art exhibit. Or was it an exhibition?

The Reason British Royals Don’t Use a Last Name

They have one, but don't often use it.

Does CPR Still Require Mouth-to-Mouth Resuscitation?

“Hands-only CPR” has gained popularity in recent years. So what is it, and when should you use it?

What Is a Red Flag Warning (And What Precautions Should You Take During One)?

High temperatures, low humidity, and lots of wind are prime red flag warning weather.

How loud a fart is depends on a couple of factors.

Why Are Some Farts Noisy?

Farts can make a lot of different noises. Some are high and squeaky, while others explode like a car backfiring—and some don’t make any noise at all.

Swimming is an all-body workout—bladder included.

The Reason Swimming Makes You Need to Pee

Going for a dip? You'll probably have a wee bit of trouble. Here's why.

France's starting lineup with their "mascots" ahead of a match against Poland during the 2022 World Cup.

Why Do Soccer Players Walk Out With Kids?

The pint-sized escorts have been a part of the pregame ceremonies since the mid-1990s.

Judge Judy really was a judge for family court.

What Legal Authority Does Judge Judy Have?

While Judith Sheindlin was once a real, live judge, she’s not acting as one on her show.

Some music literally gives you goosebumps—what's up with that?

Why Does Music Give You Chills?

When your playlist strikes all the right chords, your body can go on a physiological joyride.

Why Does Sand Stick to Everything?

Everything except volleyball players, we mean.

How Are ‘Scrabble’ Letter Points Decided?

How did ‘Scrabble’'s makers decide how many points each letter was worth? It started with an unemployed architect during the Great Depression, and it has stayed the same ever since.

What Is the Wilhelm Scream?

The Wilhelm Scream sound effect has been heard in everything from 'Star Wars' to 'Avatar.' But why do so many filmmakers use it?

Electrolytes are important, yes. But you don't necessarily need drinks full of them.

What Are Electrolytes, and Why Do We Need Them?

Sports drinks are full of them. But are they good for you, or just really expensive pee?

What would our thoughts be without language?

Is It Possible To Think Without Language?

Language is so deeply embedded in almost every aspect of the way we interact with the world. What would our thoughts be like without it?

'Psst. You hear about Ed in accounting?'

Why Do We Say We 'Heard It Through the Grapevine'?

No, it's not because of Marvin Gaye.

It had a little something to do with syphilis.

The Reason People Wore Powdered Wigs

For nearly two centuries, powdered wigs—called perukes—were all the rage. The chic hairpiece would have never become popular, however, if it hadn't been for a venereal disease, a pair of self-conscious kings, and poor hair hygiene.

Why Are Horseshoes Considered Lucky?

Horseshoes are said to bring in good fortune and keep evil out.

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