BIG QUESTIONS

Why Do Americans Call It ‘Soccer’ Instead of ‘Football’?

It may rankle purists, but American English isn’t the culprit.

How Did Ancient Medics Determine the Medicinal Properties of Substances?

At the dawn of the age of scientific medicine, there were only a handful of remedies that we would recognize today as safe and effective.

Do 'Close Door' Buttons in Elevators Actually Do Anything?

Everything you know is a lie.

What Do Morticians Do With the Blood They Take Out of Dead Bodies?

The answer is more simple, and less morbid, than you probably think.

Why Did Russia Sell Alaska to the United States of America?

The decision to purchase the territory was much derided at the time.

Is There Any Point in Letting Red Wine Breathe?

At the end of a long day, the last thing you want to do is wait 30 minutes to pour a fresh glass of wine.

Is There Any Point in Letting Red Wine Breathe?

At the end of a long day, the last thing you want to do is wait 30 minutes to pour a fresh glass of wine.

Why Do We Call Some People 'Type A'?

You can thank two Californian cardiologists from the 1950s.

Lieutenant Elizabeth Crapo, NOAA Corps, Public Domain, Wikimedia Commons

Which is the Largest National Park in the World?

The answer's not as straightforward as you might expect.

Why Do Dogs Crouch Forward When They’re Playing?

Here's what the "play bow" really means.

Why Do Fire Stations Still Use Sirens?

And why do they have to be so loud?

Do Pilots See Anything During a Night Flight?

A lot, it turns out.

Why Is the American Flag Displayed Backwards on Military Uniforms?

According to the U.S. Flag Code, you shouldn’t let the flag touch the ground or hang it upside-down. While there’s no express prohibition about reversing the image, it’s probably a safe bet you shouldn’t do that, either.

How Are Speed Limits Set?

Don't blame the government if you're unhappy with a speed limit—blame your fellow drivers.

Do Bacteria Have Bacteria?

Dek TK

What Is Foreign Accent Syndrome?

It starts in the brain.

Why Are Small, Fancy Hats Called Fascinators?

The name may seem like a perfect fit for the eye-catching accessory, but it used to describe a much different type of headgear.

Do Earthquakes Affect an Aircraft Flying Above?

The answer is pretty scary.

How Do British Royals Get Their Titles?

Even if you’re not a noble, earning one of their titles doesn't always require a royal wedding.

What Makes Tumbleweeds Tumble?

They didn't get that name by accident.

How Much Do You Get Paid for Being on House Hunters?

It's not going to put a dent in that down payment.

What Makes #2 Pencils So Special?

... and your other burning, pencil-related questions answered.

Why is New York City Called The Big Apple?

The City That Never Sleeps has lots of nicknames, but this one might be the most ubiquitous.

How Do You Get an Invite to the Royal Wedding?

Getting on the guest list for any royal affair is no easy feat, but this list is even more exclusive than most.

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