Big Questions Answered, How and Why

Tomato, tomahto.

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

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

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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?

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

Everything except volleyball players, we mean.

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.

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.

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

What would our thoughts be 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?'

No, it's not because of Marvin Gaye.

It had a little something to do with syphilis.

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.

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

Houseplants can die of old age, but likely not within your lifetime.

The phrase '86' may have originated in restaurants.

There are a few schools of thought. Some have more legs than others—such as those of the restaurant industry—but to this day, there is still no official etymology. Here are a few possibilities.