Big Questions Answered, How and Why

When TVs became popular in the 20th century, some people started calling it ‘the tube.’ That nickname soon spawned an even catchier one: ‘the boob tube.’

Plastic bags are an environmental disaster.

Technically, they really don't.

Marylanders pledge allegiance to Old Bay.

The original Old Bay seasoning recipe had dozens of ingredients—but McCormick’s current one is shrouded in secrecy.

The location of a car's gas tank can be a guessing game.

To annoy you? Possibly. For other good reasons, like keeping you alive? Also yes.

There are a few reasons why manhole covers around round. Here's how to answer if it ever comes up.

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

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.

Doctors can self-prescribe, but it's generally discouraged and the practice has quite a few stipulations.

Nachos Doritos seen at the grocery store.

Doritos apparently taste different in Mexico than they do in the U.S., and many customers prefer the version sold south of the border.

Don't call this "barbecuing" in front of a pitmaster.

Though they’re sometimes used interchangeably, grilling and barbecuing describe distinct methods of outdoor cooking.

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

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

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

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?

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

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.

Apple's iconic logo is rumored to have been inspired by Eve's bite into the apple of knowledge, Newton's discovery of gravity, and Alan Turing's untimely end. Are any of these stories true?

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

There’s a science behind all those 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.

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

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

Everyone liked “Y.M.C.A.”—except the actual organization.

It’s rare for a baby to be born on a plane.

When a baby is born on an international flight, where the plane is registered and the airspace it’s in can determine the child’s citizenship.

Whether you enjoy the velvety skin on peaches or peel it off, you may wonder why they developed fuzz in the first place.

The ooey-gooey goodness that is American cheese is delicious ... but what is it?

There's a multitude of pencil types out there.

Almost every syllabus, teacher, and standardized test requires a No. 2 pencil. Are there other choices out there?

Where does this literary device come from, and why is it named after a fish?

The figurative phrase is more than 200 years old, but the obscure etymology of a 'red herring' is a fishy story that is itself a red herring.

BIG QUESTIONS

Why Is TV Called the ‘Boob Tube’?

How Long Does It Really Take for a Plastic Bag to Decompose?

What Is Old Bay Seasoning, Anyway?

Why Aren't Car Gas Tanks Always on the Same Side?

The Reason Why Manhole Covers Are Round

What Is Trypophobia (And Is It Real)?

Can Doctors Self-Prescribe Medications?

Do Mexican Doritos Taste Different Than the American Version?

Barbecuing vs. Grilling: What’s the Difference?

What Exactly Is Canada Day?

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

What’s the Difference Between Ice Cream and Gelato?

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

Did Alan Turing Inspire the Apple Logo?

Why Do We Tilt Our Heads When Being Photographed?

How Do Fireworks Get Their Colors?

The Reason Trader Joe’s Parking Lots Are So Small

What’s the Difference Between Shrimp and Prawns?

How Did the Real YMCA React to the Disco Song About It?

What Is the Citizenship of a Baby Born on an International Flight?

Why Are Peaches Fuzzy?

What Exactly is American Cheese?

Are There No. 1 Pencils?

Where Did the Phrase 'Red Herring' Come From?