BIG QUESTIONS

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.

It's not just the product of some bizarre kitchen sorcery.

Why Does Plastic Never Fully Dry in the Dishwasher?

Why do plastic containers stay wet, even after they’ve gone through the dishwasher? Turns out, science is to blame.

Why Do Cats ‘Blep’?

We asked an expert to help us investigate the adorable causes of the tongue-lolling phenomenon.

Certain smells become less pungent in cold air.

What’s Really Happening When You “Smell” Snow?

The sensation is real, but it doesn't have to do with odor.

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.

Turning off all those notifications can be a game-changer.

Airplane Mode vs. Do Not Disturb Mode: What’s the Difference?

Are the airplane and Do Not Disturb modes on your smartphone really all that different? Discover the benefits of these two settings and how they diverge.

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.

Swearing the presidential Oath of Office on a Bible is traditional, but not required.

Has Every U.S. President Been Sworn in on a Bible?

The U.S. Constitution requires every president-elect to swear the Oath of Office—and that’s about it.

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.

Are Eggs Dairy?

What are eggs, really? It's complicated.

MRSA bacteria bound to a neutrophil, a type of infection-fighting white blood cell.

What Is Antibiotic Resistance?

Public health officials are concerned that we could move back into a situation like that of the early 20th century, before antibiotics were discovered.

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.

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.

Why Do Humans Have Toenails?

Discover more about the origins of toenails—plus the real reasons why your toenails may be getting thicker and changing colors.

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.