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13 Scientific Explanations for Everyday Life
The processes behind the physics of LEGOs, the chemistry of laundry, and more.
PHYSICS
Why Do Orchestras Tune to an A Note?
Before the 20th century, concert musicians might tune their instruments to wildly different pitches, depending on where they were playing.
Why You Should Never Leave Bottles of Water in Your Hot Car
They could actually start a fire.
Why a Dripping Faucet Makes That Maddening 'Plink' Sound—and How to Stop It
Scientists have found a hack to help you quell the sound until the plumber comes.
Stephen Hawking’s Memorial Will Beam His Words Toward the Nearest Black Hole
Though he wasn't able to go to outer space during his lifetime, his words will travel there after his death.
Is There a Limit to How Many Balls You Can Juggle?
The current record may never be broken.
7 Giant Machines That Changed the World—And 1 That Might
From a 17-mile-long particle accelerator to a football field–sized space observatory, these machines are marvels.
What Is a Scientific Theory?
A theory in science is very different from a theory in everyday conversation.
An Ancient Book Blasted with High-Powered X-Rays Reveals Text Erased Centuries Ago
The particle accelerator revs electrons to nearly the speed of light.
How to Make a Sled Go Faster, According to Science
Can science help you sled faster? Yes, it can. And even better, everything you need is already in your house.
Impossible Figure Skating Moves from the Movies
Hollywood has taken a few liberties on the ice—and the judges are not impressed.
7 Science-Approved Tips for Walking Across Ice
According to a physicist, a glaciologist, and kinesiologist.
The North Face's New Geodesic Dome Tent Will Protect You in 60 mph Wind
An essential item for the extreme camper.
MIT Scientists Are Building Biomedical Research Labs Out of LEGO Blocks
The plastic toys are opening doors to cheaper, modular scientific tools.
Listen to a House Plant Play 'Mary Had a Little Lamb'
New technology from MIT can turn anything into a "visual microphone."
The Thermodynamic Genius of the Classic Drinking Bird Toy
The kitschy desk ornament's mechanism confounded Albert Einstein.
Why Does My Shower Curtain Liner Attack Me?
It cannot be reasoned with. It cannot be bargained with. It's coming for you.
Here's What Actually Happens When You're Electrocuted
There's a reason why "electrocution" sounds like "execution."
Why Your Radiator is So Loud, According to Science
No, it's not a tiny man with a hammer.
6 Priceless Documents That Reveal Key Moments Early in Einstein's Career
Mental Floss spoke to ETH Zurich archivist Michael Gasser about the papers—including one letter in which Einstein calls his good friend a "frozen whale."
The Top 10 Science Stories of 2017
Science can't stop, won't stop.
Researchers Pore Over the Physics Behind the Layered Latte
Fluid dynamics has never tasted so good.