MF EXPLAINS IT ALL

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.

Why You Shouldn’t ‘Heat Up’ Your Car’s Engine in Cold Weather

Many drivers think that giving your engine time to reach its normal operating temperature is easier on your car than hitting the gas as soon as you turn the ignition on. Many drivers are wrong.

Are Eggs Dairy?

What are eggs, really? It's complicated.

Here‘s how people are able to stay warm in igloos.

How Do Igloos Keep People Warm?

The interior of an igloo can be 40 to 60 degrees warmer than its surrounding environment.

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.

Changing your default browser in Google Chrome is no hassle.

How to Switch Your Default Search Engine From Google in Chrome

Prefer Google Chrome but not the Google search engine? That’s no problem.

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.

A head bonk is one of the biggest signs of affection from cats.

Why Does My Cat Headbutt Me?

They do it because they love you.

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.

There‘s a time and place for black tea (left) and herbal tea (right).

Decaffeinated vs. Caffeine-Free Tea: What’s the Difference?

“Caffeine-free tea” isn't actually tea at all.

Who First Said “The Customer Is Always Right”?

The proverb that empowers rude shoppers has been going strong for over a century. Who’s to blame?

What‘s the Difference Between Hail, Sleet, and Freezing Rain?

Frozen precipitation comes in many forms, and they all pose unique threats.

Drop this fact at your New Year’s Eve party.

Why Do We ‘Ring In’ the New Year?

The meaning of ‘ring in the New Year’ is now mostly metaphorical, but it used to involve literal ringing.

Why Don't Cars Have Pop-Up Headlights Anymore?

The ‘hidden headlamps’ were having a moment. Then pesky pedestrian safety cramped their style.

Next time someone confuses the two drinks, you‘ll know how to correct them.

Champagne vs. Prosecco: What’s the Difference?

Don’t let wine aficionados hear you confuse these two sparkling beverages.

What’s the Difference Between Flapjacks and Pancakes?

What is a flapjack? If you’re in England, it’s not a fluffy round cake made from batter and fried in a pan.

How to Properly Dispose of Wrapping Paper

Can wrapping paper be recycled? As you may have guessed, correctly disposing of wrapping paper can be a bit complicated.

Why Do We Say “Jinx”?

If you’ve ever been jinxed into owing someone a soda, you should know why.

How do these two famous vampires compare?

What’s the Difference Between Dracula and Nosferatu?

Ahead of Robert Eggers’s adaptation of ‘Nosferatu,’ here’s a breakdown of the differences and similarities between the two iconic bloodsuckers.

Pink slips have had a lot of different meanings over the years.

Why Is Being Fired Called ‘Getting the Pink Slip’?

Getting laid off has long been associated with getting a fancy pink invitation to the unemployment line. Why?

Building snowmen is not a new winter activity.

Why Do We Build Snowmen?

From children decorating them with hats and carrot noses to giant sculptures of fan-favorite characters, where there is snow, there will be snowmen. Here’s a brief history of why we build them.