BIG QUESTIONS

This little symbol has a fascinating history.

Where Did the Ampersand Symbol Come From?

From what an ampersand symbol is to where it came from, here's what you need to know about this little symbol's surprisingly long history.

There's a good reason you don't see baby pigeons.

Where Are All the Baby Pigeons?

To city dwellers, it might seem that pigeons multiply magically: All the birds swooping down at us, or scurrying out of the way when we walk, are fully grown. How come we never see baby pigeons anywhere?

What Is Bologna Made Of?

If you really want to know …

Do You Really Have to Preheat the Oven?

You should preheat the oven to whatever temperature the recipe says—but here’s what’ll happen (or won’t happen) if you don’t.

How Often Should You Water Your Garden?

Once you’ve learned a few key things about your garden, you’ll know how often you should grab a hose and start watering.

The St. Edward's Crown (left) and the Imperial State Crown.

Why Do British Monarchs Wear Two Crowns During Their Coronation?

King Charles III will only get to don the iconic St. Edward’s Crown for a moment—here’s why.

How Do Water Towers Work?

Let’s go inside the mysterious infrastructure that stores our water.

This person is definitely not in New Jersey.

Why Can’t You Pump Your Own Gas in New Jersey?

It’s for your own good—or at least that’s the theory.

Ever wonder what you're supposed to be minding when your mind your p's and q's?

What Exactly Are Your P’s and Q’s?

Does it have to do with pea coats? Or maybe Latin scribes?

Why Don't Mattresses Come With Handles Anymore?

Want to find out who your real friends are? Ask them to help you move a mattress.

New England clam chowder is the seafood soup most diners are familiar with.

What’s the Difference Between Manhattan and New England Clam Chowder?

Manhattan and New England clam chowder are two of the most divisive dishes in American cuisine.

Does Ripping Off a Bandage Quickly Really Hurt Less?

“Ripping off the Band-Aid” is a well-worn idiom. When you want to break bad news, it’s better to just do it quickly; the same goes for anything prompting any ki

What's the Difference Between Ketchup and Catsup?

Tomato, tomahto.

Exhibit vs. Exhibition: What’s the Difference?

You just went to an art exhibit. Or was it an exhibition?

The Reason British Royals Don’t Use a Last Name

They have one, but don't often use it.

Does CPR Still Require Mouth-to-Mouth Resuscitation?

“Hands-only CPR” has gained popularity in recent years. So what is it, and when should you use it?

What Is a Red Flag Warning (And What Precautions Should You Take During One)?

High temperatures, low humidity, and lots of wind are prime red flag warning weather.

How loud a fart is depends on a couple of factors.

Why Are Some Farts Noisy?

Farts can make a lot of different noises. Some are high and squeaky, while others explode like a car backfiring—and some don’t make any noise at all.

Swimming is an all-body workout—bladder included.

The Reason Swimming Makes You Need to Pee

Going for a dip? You'll probably have a wee bit of trouble. Here's why.

France's starting lineup with their "mascots" ahead of a match against Poland during the 2022 World Cup.

Why Do Soccer Players Walk Out With Kids?

The pint-sized escorts have been a part of the pregame ceremonies since the mid-1990s.

Judge Judy really was a judge for family court.

What Legal Authority Does Judge Judy Have?

While Judith Sheindlin was once a real, live judge, she’s not acting as one on her show.

Some music literally gives you goosebumps—what's up with that?

Why Does Music Give You Chills?

When your playlist strikes all the right chords, your body can go on a physiological joyride.

Why Does Sand Stick to Everything?

Everything except volleyball players, we mean.

How Are ‘Scrabble’ Letter Points Decided?

How did ‘Scrabble’'s makers decide how many points each letter was worth? It started with an unemployed architect during the Great Depression, and it has stayed the same ever since.

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