MF EXPLAINS IT ALL

Black ice causes very dangerous conditions.

What Is Black Ice, And Why Is It So Dangerous?

Black ice on the road is a recipe for disaster. Here’s what it is, how it forms, and where it’s often hiding in plain sight.

The History of How Each Month’s Full Moon Got its Name

Each month’s full moon marks the changing seasons.

Some situations require sterilization, while sanitizing works fine in others.

Sanitize vs. Disinfect vs. Sterilize: What‘s the Difference?

Learn the key differences between sanitizing, disinfecting, and sterilizing to properly clean your home and protect your health.

Why Is It Called a “Manila” Envelope?

There’s a surprising connection between the capital of the Philippines and mailing important documents.

Why Are Oft-Repeated Jokes or Stories Sometimes Called “Old Chestnuts”?

There are several theories as to where this phrase came from—and none of them involves the nuts.

Powerful winds fuel the Palisades and Eaton fires in the Los Angeles area.

How Wildfires Get Their Names

Meteorological organizations have strict naming protocols for tropical cyclones and hurricanes. Not so for wildfires, which can end up being named for the local dump.

Disinformation vs. Misinformation: What’s the Difference?

The difference between misinformation and disinformation boils down to the intent behind it (or lack thereof). Plus, a handy trick for knowing which term to use when the time comes.

Why Do Dogs Love Tennis Balls?

Fido’s fascination stems from a unique mix of instinct and happenstance.

Streetlights aren’t supposed to be purple.

Why Are Some Streetlights Purple?

The emo vibe isn’t an aesthetic choice—it’s the result of degrading infrastructure.

California wildfires: Firefighters struggle with strained water system

What Are the Santa Ana Winds?

News reports warn about the Santa Ana winds and their power to turn modest wildfires into conflagrations. Here’s why these wind patterns in Southern California can be so destructive.

The Stillson wrench revolutionized plumbing.

Why Do We Call It a “Stillson Wrench”?

The imposing pipe wrench with teeth was once made out of wood.

They're a must-have in the wintertime for a reason.

All-Season Tires vs. Snow Tires: What’s the Difference?

Are snow tires really worth it? Discover the real differences with all-season tires, including affordability, rubber tread, and more.

Why You Shouldn’t ‘Heat Up’ Your Car’s Engine in Cold Weather

Many drivers think that giving your engine time to reach its normal operating temperature is easier on your car than hitting the gas as soon as you turn the ignition on. Many drivers are wrong.

Are Eggs Dairy?

What are eggs, really? It's complicated.

Here‘s how people are able to stay warm in igloos.

How Do Igloos Keep People Warm?

The interior of an igloo can be 40 to 60 degrees warmer than its surrounding environment.

Here‘s how to keep your canine clean and happy.

How Often Do You Need to Bathe Your Dog?

The answer varies based on your pet‘s coat, activity, and skin type.

Changing your default browser in Google Chrome is no hassle.

How to Switch Your Default Search Engine From Google in Chrome

Prefer Google Chrome but not the Google search engine? That’s no problem.

What’s a wazoo, and why do we invoke it?

Why Do We Say “Up the Wazoo”?

On the possible origins of ‘wazoo,’ and why things are said to tumble out of it.

A head bonk is one of the biggest signs of affection from cats.

Why Does My Cat Headbutt Me?

They do it because they love you.

Why Do We Make New Year’s Resolutions?

Every time a new year rolls around, people set out to better themselves. But why do we make these promises to ourselves, and where did this tradition come from? We can start by blaming the ancient Babylonians.

There‘s a time and place for black tea (left) and herbal tea (right).

Decaffeinated vs. Caffeine-Free Tea: What’s the Difference?

“Caffeine-free tea” isn't actually tea at all.

Who First Said “The Customer Is Always Right”?

The proverb that empowers rude shoppers has been going strong for over a century. Who’s to blame?

What‘s the Difference Between Hail, Sleet, and Freezing Rain?

Frozen precipitation comes in many forms, and they all pose unique threats.

Drop this fact at your New Year’s Eve party.

Why Do We ‘Ring In’ the New Year?

The meaning of ‘ring in the New Year’ is now mostly metaphorical, but it used to involve literal ringing.