MF EXPLAINS IT ALL

A sign on the Hoover Dam warns of dangerous heat levels on September 16, 2022, in Boulder City, Nevada.

What Is a Heat Dome?

Heat domes are masses of hot air trapped within the atmosphere by high pressure. And they're becoming more common, thanks to climate change.

How does this image of a lotus pod make you feel?

What Is Trypophobia (And Is It Real)?

Many people report fearing clusters of holes. If you're one of them, this post is for you. But don't say we didn't warn you.

The Reason So Many British Pubs Are Named ‘The Red Lion’

There are more than 500 pubs in the United Kingdom called The Red Lion. It all traces back to King James VI and I.

The Scientific Reason You Should Microwave Popcorn With “This Side Up”

Microwave popcorn bags are often covered in words—here’s why you should pay attention to “This Side Up.”

Putting diesel in a gas-powered car can be an expensive mistake.

Here’s Why Confusing Diesel With Gas at the Pump Is a Problem

Depending on how much diesel you’ve poured into the tank, there’s a good to fair chance you will need a mechanic to drain your car’s fuel system.

She's happy because she finally understands that she's lying down—not laying down.

Lay vs. Lie: When to Use Each

The ‘laying vs. lying’ situation is tricky—but direct objects can help.

What Exactly Is Canada Day?

Here’s a brief history of Canada’s national day—which celebrates the joining of the three original provinces—and how you can celebrate.

Why Do Marathon Runners Poop Their Pants?

Some athletes call it runner’s trots. Others refer to it as the Gingerbread Man. Here's why marathoners sometimes get off to a runny start.

Gilbert Baker created the rainbow flag in 1978.

How the Rainbow Flag Became Associated With LGBTQ+ Rights

How the rainbow became specifically associated with LGBTQ+ rights goes back to San Francisco in the late 1970s, and to one artist in particular.

New York Yankee Domingo Germán pitching a perfect game against the Oakland A's on June 28, 2023.

Perfect Game vs. No-Hitter vs. Shutout: What’s the Difference?

The perfect game is to a baseball pitcher what Moby-Dick was to Captain Ahab.

What’s the Difference Between Ice Cream and Gelato?

You know it's summer when going to the local ice cream or gelato shop becomes part of your daily routine. But what exactly is the difference between these two frozen treats?

Some Cool Tips to Cope With a Hot Car

It’s summer and cars have become ovens. But you don’t need to suffer.

You probably shouldn’t do it—unless there really is a fire.

Is It Illegal to Falsely Shout 'Fire' in a Crowded Theater?

Back in 1919, Oliver Wendell Holmes, Jr. sort of made it seem like it was against the law to yell “fire“ while in a crowded theater, so we understand if you’re confused.

That Extra Loop of Fabric on Your Seatbelt Is Actually an Important Safety Feature

Though hopefully you’ll never need it, the loop on your seatbelt is there to prevent injury or even death in a crash.

Why Do We Tilt Our Heads When Being Photographed?

It's called head canting, and the psychology of it goes beyond looking good for the 'gram.

John Adams predicted people would celebrate Independence Day with fireworks.

The History of Fourth of July Fireworks

The celebration of American Independence Day has never been small, subdued, or quiet. Here’s why the Fourth of July is illuminated with colorful displays in major cities, small towns, and backyards.

There’s a science behind all those colors.

How Do Fireworks Get Their Colors?

The chemistry behind the vibrant colors of fireworks is another reason to “ooh” and “aah” at the sky this Fourth of July.

Storefront of Trader Joe's in Los Angeles.

The Reason Trader Joe’s Parking Lots Are So Small

Trader Joe’s admits their parking lots are small, and they don’t plan on changing that anytime soon.

What’s the Difference Between Shrimp and Prawns?

Shrimp and prawns are two tasty crustaceans that are often confused with one another. We examine the differences.

Meteorological summer and astronomical summer are not the same.

Why Meteorological and Astronomical Seasons Don’t Line Up

Happy first day of (meteorological) summer!

You Might Be Storing Your Bread All Wrong

If you think a bread box or plastic bag is the answer, you're not rising to the occasion.

How to Spot Poison Oak

Poison ivy isn’t the only thing that can give you a nasty rash.

There's a reason gas stations never just round up.

The Reason Gas Stations Charge 9/10 of a Cent

The unusual fractional price you see at gas stations has roots in the Great Depression, but marketing is to blame, too.

The Sistine Chapel's no-photo policy has an unexpected origin.

The Reason Why No Photography is Allowed in the Sistine Chapel

Visitors to the chapel will find their experience peppered with terse shouts of “No photo! No video!” from security guards.

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