MF EXPLAINS IT ALL

Why Do We Call the Country “the Boonies”?

We have the military to thank.

Worried about traction? One of these options can help.

Sand vs. Rock Salt vs. Kitty Litter: Which One Is Better on Icy Roads?

When it comes to winter road safety, which one should you use? It all depends on whether you’re looking to melt ice, gain traction, or both.

Punxsutawney Phil is not the most reliable weather predictor.

How Accurate Are Punxsutawney Phil’s Groundhog Day Weather Predictions?

The stats indicate that practice doesn’t always make perfect when it comes to mid-sized meteorological rodents.

The Jet Stream (left, over northern Canada) and the Gulf Stream (right, near Florida) both have big effects on global climate.

Jet Stream vs. Gulf Stream: What’s the Difference?

Learn the key differences between the two before the next polar vortex.

Old-fashioned chivalry isn't dead after all.

Why Do People Propose on One Knee?

The origins for this marriage proposal tradition go back to the days of knights and courtly love.

Beyoncé has won more Grammy awards than any other artist, but Album of the Year is not one of them (yet).

What's the Difference Among the Grammys’ Album, Record, and Song of the Year?

Each is a prestigious win at the Grammy Awards, but these similar-sounding prizes are given to different music industry roles.

You can open the curtains, but that's as far as it goes.

Why Can’t We Open Hotel Room Windows?

Hotels have several good reasons to prevent guests from cracking open a window.

Tired of Drinking Bitter Tea? Try Adding Salt, Not Sugar

Tea and sugar are a classic combination. But salt may actually be more helpful when it comes to improving tea’s flavor.

If you see frost, it's a sign to back off.

Can You Still Mow Your Lawn in the Winter?

When it comes to cold-weather lawn care, this is one chore that can definitely wait until spring—with a couple of exceptions.

Why Are They Called the “Grammys”?

No, the Grammys weren’t christened to honor someone’s grandmother.

Astronauts face lots of challenges, including what to do with dirty underwear.

Do Astronauts Do Laundry in Space?

Tossing stinky socks in a washer isn’t really an option once you leave Earth.

We can confirm this suit is pretty ugly.

Where Did the Phrase ‘Neither Confirm Nor Deny’ Come From?

We cannot confirm nor deny we have an explanation.

How Do Dog Whistles Work?

The ultrasonic training instruments are easy to use. But there’s a dark history behind their inventor—and their initial purpose.

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.

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