Big Questions Answered, How and Why

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.

Unpacking the reason hyperlinks are blue requires dipping into early internet history.

Ever wonder what your dog finds so tasty about grass?

A dog that eats grass frantically may be trying to vomit—but the behavior doesn't automatically warrant a trip to the vet.

And how does a range fit into all this?

The baton has been a law enforcement tool for close to two centuries. But did anyone named Billy actually have anything to do with it?

Speeders on targeted stretches of road are monitored from the ground and from the sky.

BIG QUESTIONS

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?

Why Are Hyperlinks Blue?

Why Do Dogs Eat Grass?

Oven vs. Stove: What's the Difference?

Why Is A Police Officer’s Baton Called a Billy Club?

How Are Speed Limits Enforced by Aircraft?